Most states require that teachers attend a four-year school and receive a bachelor’s degree in education. A few states, however, require teachers to spend extra time in college and obtain an education master’s degree. As an alternative, some students may earn their bachelor’s degree in mathematics and then attend a one-year post-graduate program for teaching.
According to Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), every state offers alternative ways to obtain certification to become a math teacher. Individuals may hold a four-year degree in areas related to mathematics and pursue a licensure program. Some of these programs involve teaching under the supervision of mentor teachers. Other options involve returning to college for up to two semesters full-time to become state certified.
More time in college may benefit those who seek to advance in their career. Some teachers pursue a master’s degree in teaching or education. A master’s degree program is sometimes required to mentor new teachers or to advance to administrative positions. Many junior colleges also require that their math teachers obtain a master’s degree. To teach math at in a four-year college, the teacher must earn a doctoral degree or be a doctoral candidate.
Some math teachers choose to become certified by professional organizations such as the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS). The NBPTS doesn’t require that teachers spend additional time in college. They must be licensed and have three years of teaching experience to become eligible for a certificate. The certificate process requires a portfolio that shows things such as student work and classroom teaching videos. Teaching requirements are always changing. People interested in teaching should check with their state’s department of education for up-to-date information.
Math teachers are a needed resource in many schools. According to the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM), 30 percent of middle school and high school teachers in the United States lack the needed education background to teach students about math. Potential math teachers should consider pursuing either a mathematics degree or a degree in education with mathematics’ focus.