I would like to be a history teacher

Question

But i have a totally different degree (music). I thought I wanted to be a music teacher but after some years of gigging and trying it out, I have become not as happy. I have been soul searching and I have realized my true love is history. I did very well in history in High School. (took AP classes, scored 4s on the exams) and I am currently getting ready to go back to school (cal state fullerton in fullerton, california), for a teaching credential.

Do you think it would be possible to achieve this in my situation?

Thanks everyone :-D!

Answer 1

In California it is possible to teach the social studies if you do not have a degree it in. You have to pass the CSET test which is three parts. I had to take the test the myself since I majored in Social Science and the state did not accept it as being "highly qualified". If you pass all three sections of the CSET they you proved you are competent in the subject area and once you obtain your credential you will be considered highly qualified and can teach social studies.

Answer 2

Sadly Jen is wrong.  With new federal requirements, high school teachers must be "highly qualified," which generally means having a bachelor's degree in the subject you teach (there are other ways are fulfilling the requirement, but your high school AP scores won't cut it!).  

Be prepared to go back to school and take several history classes along with your teaching program.

Secondly, even if you live in a loser state (no offense) that would certify a music major to teach history, no self-respecting school would hire you when there are dozens of qualified applicants for every social studies job opening. History is unfortunately the hardest area in which to find a job due to an oversupply of applicants.

The best way to improve your chances of getting hired is to get certified in multiple subjects.  Spanish (or ESL) and special education are "golden tickets;" a certification in either one along with history will guarantee you a job just about anywhere.  English plus Social Studies is a fairly common combination.  A music certification might also be helpful.  

Answer 3

I certainly hope so because I'm in the same boat! As far as I know, in most states it is possible to get a teaching license (preliminary or initial) with a bachelor's degree in any subject (doesn't have to be in the subject that you want to teach), pass the state teaching exam, and take a licensing course which is typically about 6 weeks. Good luck!