I want to become a Science Teacher, but

  • Thread starter Thread starter Poma
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Science Teacher
AI Thread Summary
To become a high school Science teacher with a focus on Astronomy and Physics, it's essential to understand the educational requirements specific to Pennsylvania. A BA in English is a strong foundation, but transitioning to teaching will likely require additional qualifications. Generally, candidates need to complete core courses in calculus, physics, and general science, along with a degree in Astronomy or Physics. Many universities offer programs that integrate pedagogy and education psychology, which can provide the necessary teaching credentials. Graduate studies may be required for teaching at higher levels. It's advisable to review specific state certification requirements and explore programs that offer teaching experience as part of the curriculum. Financial considerations and the extent of additional education needed should also be factored into the decision-making process.
Poma
Messages
1
Reaction score
0
I hope this is in the right place.

For a long time I did not know what I wanted to do as a career. I went to college and got a BA in English because I really enjoyed reading and writing. I am very proud and happy with my education, but I have an issue. I wish to become a Science teacher in a high school setting. I have had a life-long enthusiasm and enjoyment of Astronomy and that would be the subject I would like to teach (Physics as well. I'm aware that high schools don't hire just Astronomy teachers.) Does anyone have any advice about how to approach my education? I don't know if I need to get a BA/MA in Education as well as at least a BS in Astronomy/Physics, or if I can just take the bachelor's for Astronomy and become licensed some way else? I would love to go back to school but that is a lot of education to go through again and money as well. Any suggestions?
I'm mainly focusing on teaching in Pennsylvania at the moment and for the sake of the question since I know each state has different requirements.
Thanks for your time!
 
Physics news on Phys.org
At the minimum i would think you would have to take the core req's to teach high school physics. At my school that includes calc1,2, calc based physics 1-2, Modern physics and some general science (chem, bio, genetics) classes. http://www.swosu.edu/resources/catalog/undergrad/cpgs/natural-science-education.aspx
Reqs may differ from school to school
 
Last edited by a moderator:
At my university there is an optional course (in pedagogy & education psychology) available that lasts throughout our 4-year undergrad program, that will eventually enable us to teach math, science and related disciplines to middle school & junior high students. (Completion of graduate studies unlocks the option to teach to HS seniors & maybe undergrads). There are only 4 hours per week of lectures & tutorials, and next year we'll get the opportunity to get teaching experience with actual students. Check out your school's course list for similar programs.
 
Information on what you have to do is here: https://www.teach.org/state-certifications?province=PA
 
Last edited by a moderator:

Thread 'What are the best A-Level options for someone wanting to do Physics?'

Bit Britain-specific but I was wondering, what's the best path to take for A-Levels out of the following (I know Y10 seems a bit early to be thinking about A-levels, but my choice will impact what I do this year/ in y11) I (almost) definitely want to do physics at University - so keep that in mind... The subjects that I'm almost definitely going to take are Maths, Further Maths and Physics, and I'm taking a fast track programme which means that I'll be taking AS computer science at the end...
View full post »

Thread 'Hepth programs in Europe'

After a year of thought, I decided to adjust my ratio for applying the US/EU(+UK) schools. I mostly focused on the US schools before, but things are getting complex and I found out that Europe is also a good place to study. I found some institutes that have professors with similar interests. But gaining the information is much harder than US schools (like you have to contact professors in advance etc). For your information, I have B.S. in engineering (low GPA: 3.2/4.0) in Asia - one SCI...
View full post »

Thread 'Should I pursue a masters degree after 4.5 years working in IT?'

I graduated with a BSc in Physics in 2020. Since there were limited opportunities in my country (mostly teaching), I decided to improve my programming skills and began working in IT, first as a software engineer and later as a quality assurance engineer, where I’ve now spent about 3 years. While this career path has provided financial stability, I’ve realized that my excitement and passion aren’t really there, unlike what I felt when studying or doing research in physics. Working in IT...
View full post »

Similar threads

Studying How to self-study physics past High School Level?
3
Replies
102
Views
5K
Newbie Introduction
Replies
4
Views
897
Admissions Curious about my grad school prospects
Replies
3
Views
3K
Other How Can Parents and Teachers Identify a Student's Potential for a Maths Degree?
Replies
22
Views
2K
Programs Should I become a high school science and engineering teacher?
Replies
5
Views
1K
The Forever Learning Physics Teacher
Replies
1
Views
597
Courses Double degree in APhys and Materials Science Eng. or BS/MS in MechE?
Replies
1
Views
976
Programs At a disadvantage for hiring with BA math, MS Mech. Eng?
Replies
4
Views
2K
Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science
Replies
2
Views
2K
Courses Physics education PhD then MSc Physics
Replies
3
Views
2K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top