To teach high school psychology, get at least a minimum of a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university. Look into specialized education programs like the program at Purdue University titled Social Studies Education, which prepares future educators with an interest in history, sociology or psychology. Some prospective psychology teachers also choose to major in psychology during college, then go on to earn a master's degree in education in order to become an expert in the subject they wish to teach.
Student teaching is a necessary part of the learning process to teach psychology. Undergraduate and graduate programs in education offer student teaching as a way for you to get the practice and experience you need to be successful in this career. Work with an academic adviser to find a high school psychology classroom to student teach in, if possible, in order to get the most specialized and focused experience.
Although each state has different requirements for what constitutes a passing score on the Praxis Series tests, each state uses these test scores to determine whether a future educator can begin a career as a high school psychology teacher. You must complete each of the Praxis tests before you can work as a teacher. You must also complete the first Praxis test before you can begin student teaching. Most of the information on the Praxis tests will be taught during your education at an accredited college or university.
Although the basic requirements for prospective high school psychology teachers are generally the same throughout the United States, each state has its own specific licensing programs and requirements. For example, the Illinois State Board of Education states that "individuals must complete a state approved certificate preparation program meet all coursework and testing requirements, and meet all other requirements detailed in Illinois statute and rules." These state-approved certificate preparation program requirements vary across states, so make sure you understand the licensing process for the state you plan to teach and reside in before starting a career at that location.