How to teach HS English?

Question

I have a BS in psychology. I want to go back to school and get a degree to teach H.S. English. What is the best way... a second BS in English & then credentials.. or a Masters in English and then credentials.. I'm just wondering what would prepare me best to teach high school and also of course take the least amount of time. Thanks

Answer 1

Some colleges offer an accelerated MA program, if you're already working on your BA.  You'll have to check with an advisor as to which course would take the least amount of time.  Rather than solicit a large range of answers here, I'd just put it to your advisor and let him/her tell you what's best for your course of study, and your job market.

Why?  Well, you might be more likely to get hired with a BA - you're cheaper that way.  Also, many states require that teachers get back into school and start working on an MA to stay certified.  So that's another consideration, if that's your situation (it's that way in Michigan, for example).  It might make more sense to finish the MA before you enter the field, even though it might be harder to find a job...  it depends on your market.  In addition, it isn't easy being a new teacher, and having to go to school at night to work on an MA.  One more question for the advisor - does your state require certification in two subjects?  If so, is psych a certifiable subject?  find out.

Answer 2

I do know here in Ark. in our school system if you have a degree in psyscholoy and want to teach english you can go and take the hours necessary for that major and all of the required test and passing them you will then be able to teach. Check with the school system for the proper requirments so that you want be doing them out of order or waste too much time.

Answer 3

Because license requirements vary in each state, you should check  your state's department of education website, the personnel department of a local public school district, or the college of education at a local university.