What does it take to go back to school for a teaching degree/certification?

Question

I already have a BFA and am working in the design/art field, but have been thinking a lot about teaching elem ed. I don't know if this is just a normal phase that people sometimes go through where they feel the desire to change professions, or if I really do want to pursue it? Either way, what would it involve? Would I have to go back to college another 4 yrs? Thanks!

Answer 1

Go to Western Governors University website   www.wgu.edu.

I changed careers and received my post-bacc in elementary education and am now licensed.  

I can't say enough about the program and the people I dealt with.  It is an online university (but is accredited), so I could work on my own schedule. Tuition in 6 month increments which worked out great for me because I could put more hours in and accelerate the program to finish sooner (and save $$ and time).  If you like what you see on the website, and still have questions, don't hesitate to talk to an enrollment counselor.  They are a no-pressure information source and can be very helpful if you are in the decision process.

Before I went to WGU, I substitute taught at elementary, middle, and secondary level to see which age group I enjoyed working with best and to make sure I wasn't just going through a mid-life crisis...LOL.

Good luck in your decision. It was a good decision for me.

A 3rd year teacher and Western Governors University Graduate!

Answer 2

you wouldn't need to go back for a full 4 years, because you've already taken core courses (although what those core courses are might change if you go to another university - another college might require other undergrad courses before you enter their education program).

some colleges require certain GPA's or certain test scores to enter their education program, but how long you would go would depend on what certification you're looking for.

you would have to complete a certain number of clinical and field experience hours, including student teaching. some states then require standardized tests as well before you can apply for a license.

check with your state board of education and whatever college you're interested in. these would be the places to get the answers that you're looking for.