Once a student has declared a teaching major, he needs to take classes related to the selected education field. For example, those wishing to teach mathematics would focus their studies on math-related courses. Students looking to teach history would take classes related to what type of history they would teach. Those selecting a degree in elementary education would need to select classes that focus on math, science, English and history.
In addition to classes required to receive a bachelor's in teaching, general liberal arts classes also need to be chosen to fulfill the required credit hours for the major and any minors selected. These are classes in humanities, philosophy, social studies or possibly psychology. Courses in music or the fine arts should also be selected.
When nearing the completion of a teaching degree, students are required to participate in a student teaching program. This involves immersion in a regular classroom setting at a school near the college. A mix of observation and action as a teacher, as well as additional academic work, is required to complete the necessary student-teaching requirements.
Education offerings may vary between colleges depending on the certification qualifications of individual state and local governments. These qualifications should be examined prior to taking on a major in teaching. If obtaining a bachelor's degree in an out-of-state college or university, consult with local government offices to determine if additional credit hours or student teaching will be required prior to certification.