To teach math at school, a bachelor's degree in mathematics is the basic qualification. This involves obtaining a degree through a program approved by your state's education board. Many colleges and universities offer math majors specifically tailored to meet the requirements of those who want to pursue a career in teaching at school. These courses prescribe a study of the basics of arithmetic, pre-algebra, algebra, pre-calculus and calculus, besides geometry and trigonometry. You teach at local schools during the last year of study, under the supervision of a certified teacher. This will help you gain experience in dealing with students.
Candidates with a bachelor's degree in mathematics have two options to qualify for teaching at public schools. One is pursuing a fifth-year course in education. The other option is to study for a master's degree in education. Most public schools require you to earn this degree within a few years of beginning teaching if you don't already have it when joining the school. Private schools may differ in their specifications regarding this qualification and are often satisfied with only the bachelor's degree.
To teach mathematics at the university level, candidates require a doctoral degree in math. The doctoral program involves higher level courses in subjects such as arithmetic, algebra, logic and trigonometry. Beside this theoretical coursework, you will also need to assist senior faculty in the department with their teaching and research assignments. In the final stage, you will work on a dissertation topic under the guidance of an adviser.
All state education boards require candidates to meet teacher certification requirements. You will need to take the Praxis Assessment Examinations to qualify for certification. Beside exams that test your knowledge of basic and advanced levels of math, you will need to prove yourself on the Praxis tests for reading, writing and teaching.
Candidates with an accredited bachelor's or master's degree in any field other than mathematics can gain alternative teaching certification to teach math at school. This is a viable alternative when there is a shortage of qualified math teachers.