Expert: Bonnie Shimmin - 7/5/2011

Question
I'm considering making a career change and getting into education. At my former job I applied to become a corporate trainer. I was very close to getting the job but I realized that teaching is something I could do and do very well.

I have a bachelors in Journalism with a Minor in speech communication. I didn't take any education courses in college. I'm in the state of Alabama BTW.

I'm wondering what kind of additional education that I would need to get certified and about how long that could take.

I'm sure I'll have more questions in the future but I'm really just now weighing my options. Thank you for your time.

Answer
Dear Ryan,

I Googled Alabama teacher credential and found some good information about how to obtain a credential in that state.  It looks like there are jobs available (better news than in California) and it doesn't look like you have to take an extra test as you do in my state.  It did say that requirement was in the process of change, though.  

In California, you must have a major or minor concentration in the area you wish to teach for middle and high school.  I couldn't tell if that was the case in Alabama though.  I would guess that you do not need a specific BA to teach elementary school - usually a BA will do.  I'll bet you can sign up to substitute teach (go to the local school district office and inquire) with just the BA, and then you can figure out which grade level you are most comfortable with.  I have found though, that teaching is teaching - first graders or high school or college - it still requires planning, presentation, checking for understanding, and evaluation.  You also have to like kids.  Oh, and it helps to have a certain amount of patience.  (I'm kidding.  You need a whole lot of patience.)

As for your question about classes, and how long it would take to get a credential - that's really hard to say.  Some people start teaching immediately and get their credentials along the way in an intern program (that's what I did).  Some people don't want to set foot in a classroom without having taken all the classes and a good idea what's facing them.  You should go to your local college and ask to speak to an educational counselor.  That person can tell you what sorts of programs are available in your area and how long they take.  There may be someone there during the summer months and if there is, it's possible that this is a good time to inquire because they might be willing to spend more time talking to you.  If not, you'll have to wait until school starts again in the fall.  Find out when that is, and go early to talk to a counselor before the craziness of the start of the school year.

Good Luck,
Bonnie