AboutJames J. Kovalcin Expertise I am teaching or have taught AP physics B and C [calculus based mechanics & electricity and magnetism] as well as Lab Physics for college bound students. I have a BS in Physics from the University of Pittsburgh and a Master of Arts in Teaching from same. I have been teaching physics for 27 years.
Question how long does it take to become a teacher in a high school, and what
qualifications does it require?
Answer The answer depends on where you are starting. If you have only a high school diploma the required time will be 4-5 years. If you already have a college degree the time depends on the degree you have and the area in which you wish to teach. For example, if you have a degree in English and you wish to teach English the time required will probably be a year or less. [Some states, such as New Jersey, have an "Alternate Route" certification process where a person with the required undergraduate degree can begin teaching immediately if they have a job with a school district willing to sponsor them.] The university of Kentucky has links to ALL 50 states and their teaching requirements at http://www.uky.edu/Education/TEP/usacert.html.
