Undergraduate degrees require general education credits in math, communications, arts and humanities, social studies and laboratory science. At most schools, these requirements make up approximately 1 1/2 years of study. Students typically choose courses within the broad disciplines. For instance, social studies options include psychology, sociology, economics and anthropology. For the technology education degree, schools often recommend students take college algebra or statistics for math, college composition and the college research paper if they are not typically required.
Two-year associate's degrees tend to focus on the technology aspect rather than education since teachers must hold bachelor's degrees. Associate of science programs require basic Internet, spreadsheet, database and word processing. Bachelor's degrees require four years of schooling consisting of courses such as curriculum and methods in technology education, innovations in technology, design for engineering, technological applications, exploring technology, intelligent machines, safety and management in the technology lab, technology assessment and research in technology education.
Master's degrees require approximately one year of coursework beyond the bachelor's degree. Course titles include design, technology and engineering for children; invention and innovation; technology for learning; research and assessment in technology education; advanced technological applications; emergent information technology; computers in education; Internet for educators; media literacy; theories of teaching and learning; designing and teaching online classes; website design and electronic portfolios. Master's candidates take comprehensive exams and complete a thesis or professional project, as well.
Public school teachers in all U.S. states must obtain teaching certificates. College programs leading to certification include pedagogical courses such as research in education, supervision and assessment for teachers and learners, and exceptionality and diversity. Certification programs culminate in student teaching experience, typically 12 to 15 weeks of full-time teaching with a cooperating teacher for direct support in the classroom. Student teachers often keep a portfolio documenting their activities during student teaching to receive credit.