If you are interested in teaching in the private or public sector, one common requirement is a high school diploma or GED.
If you would like to become an early elementary teacher, preschool through first grade, you need to have completed at least 12 units of early childhood education; to be the program director you will need at least 24 units.
Charter schools have the authority to higher staff based on experience; a geographer with field experience is qualified to teach geography. However, charter schools have been influenced by federal legislation and now most prefer teachers with previous teaching experience, a college degree and course work in a credentialing program.
The No Child Left Behind federal legislation increased the minimum qualifications for school teachers. Teachers must hold a bachelor's degree, pass subject specific exams and be enrolled in a teacher credentialing program.
Teachers who have all the requirements except for admission into a credentialing program can apply for an emergency credential, which is only valid for a year and cannot be renewed.
The shortage of teachers provides long-term substitutes with consistent work and fewer requirements, enabling them to teach while meeting the numerous testing and performance requirements; they must pass a basic skills test and have a bachelor's degree.