I want to be a teacher but I don’t have a degree.

Earning a bachelor’s degree is the first step towards obtaining a teaching certificate since in all states holding a bachelor’s degree is a requirement for licensure to teach in K-12 public schools. A bachelor’s degree in education is typically centered on a specific major, such as elementary education or secondary education, in order to prepare graduates to teach children in specific grades and subjects. For those who already have a bachelor’s degree in a subject other than education, there are plenty of master’s in general education programs available.

While the majority of teaching programs are focused on specific subjects within a grade or age range, there are other general education degree programs that can prepare educators to teach multiple subjects. Regardless of the subjects to be taught, prospective educators should have a love of working with children and a passion for teaching. A commitment to lifelong learning is also essential, as teachers must stay up-to-date in both teaching practice and their subject area(s).