Before finding the right courses for your teaching program, write down your specific teaching goals. Determine what age range you want to teach. If you want to teach middle school or high school, decide what subject area you want to specialize in. This will determine the program and courses for you to enroll in. It is also important for your long-term goals to realize that continuing education is a key part of being a teacher. If you begin teaching after earning a bachelor's degree, you will need to take classes to work toward your master's degree. These classes can be done online in the evening or during the summer.
A variety of courses are available online for you to earn your teaching certification. Many are national programs. Check with your state's Department of Education for its specific requirements for teacher certification to make sure you enroll for the right courses. Student teaching may vary in approach if you take courses online. Check with the online school ahead of time to learn how it handles this aspect.
If you are taking classes for your initial certification to teach in the public schools, you probably will be enrolled at the bachelor's level. If you have decided to specialize in a specific subject, you will take many more classes in your chosen area. Check on the certification requirements with the Department of Education in the state you plan to teach in. Some classes may not be offered every semester. Make sure you take them when they are available so they won't interfere with your student teaching or certification.
Alternate ways to obtain teacher certification are available. These usually involve either an emergency situation--known as emergency certification--or a special arrangement teaching for an underprivileged school. Alternate certification is also available for some people who may not have completed an education degree. This is most common for those who have been in another profession and seek to switch to teaching. Check with your state's Department of Education for specific requirements.