How do I teach English without a BA in English? I have a BA in Theatre & BS in Business Administration?

Question

I'm looking at going back to school for my Master's, but I wouldn't be licensed to teach English, would I? What schools are worth looking into in particular, and what program options do I have? I really am passionate about this.

Also, as a tie-in, what are the chances of getting some sort of assistanceship? Any help would be greatly appreciated. The more detailed the answer, the better.

Answer 1

you need to get a teaching license.. and depending on what level you want to teach, PK-12 or college level, the classes you will need to take will differ..

Answer 2

I am a career switcher with a double major in business and economics and then a masters in health care administration.  I wanted to make the jump to teaching in Virginia and found that I needed a lot to meet state certification.  I decided to do a Masters in Teaching program as that would help get me the knowledge and the credits.  It was a 10 course program getting the essential work in teaching each subject, child psych, assessment, and the history of teaching.  Beyond that I found that some of my business math courses didn't count.  I had to take college algebra, an art class, and US history.  I did most of those classes with online community colleges.  The Masters in Teaching program also helped guide me through taking the praxis exams, reading exam, and other things that the state of VA required.

Your best bet is to get onto your state's department of education website.  Also, talk to an advisor of a local education department.

Good luck!