Science Education
Science teachers are in high demand, from middle school physical science and social science programs to high school biology and chemistry programs. If you love science and want to inspire others to be inquisitive thinkers, you might enjoy a career as a science teacher.
Science Teacher Job Description
Science teachers answer questions like "why is the sky blue?" They also conduct lab experiments to interest young minds in natural phenomena. It helps to be comfortable with technology and hands-on learning, because science educators use a lot of both. You'll help students use computers for research and interactive science lessons, and you'll lead activities that range from lab experiments to nature field trips.
A teaching career in science will keep your mind as stimulated as those of your students—especially in a world where science and technology are constantly evolving. Science teachers need to keep up-to-date with the latest curriculum and findings. A good way to do this is to become a member of the National Science Teachers Association.
Being a science teacher can be very rewarding because you teach kids how to find answers on their own.
Science Teacher Credential and Certification Requirements
To become a science teacher, you need a bachelor's degree in science. Decide whether you want to focus on specific subject areas, such as physics, or whether you want to teach general science, because there are different requirements.
Once you have your bachelor's degree or higher, you need to obtain teacher certification from the Department of Education in the state in which you plan to teach. You need to be licensed to teach certain grades and/or subjects. Requirements vary by state, so make sure you research the science teacher requirements in your state.
Science Teacher Alternative Certification
There is also an alternative teacher certification program that was created in response to science teacher shortages nationwide. These alternative teacher certification routes provide teaching opportunities for people with both a bachelor's degree and real life experiences. The alternative certification helps satisfy the demand for teachers and adds to the quality and variety of the teaching work force. Alternative certification programs are collaborative state efforts among Departments of Education, school districts, colleges and universities, so be sure to research the certification requirements in the state in which you plan to teach.
The teacher shortage is another way you might be able to begin a career in science education without already having a teaching degree or teacher certification in science. If your education or job experience have given you superior science skills, check with your state Department of Education to see what emergency teacher certification you can get. See Teacher Shortage for more details.
Science Teacher Loan Forgiveness Program
A financial benefit available to aspiring science teachers is the loan forgiveness program for in-service teachers. In October 2004, President Bush signed the Taxpayer-Teacher Protection Act, which extends Stafford Student Loan forgiveness up to $17,500. Secondary school science teachers may be eligible, so this may save you a lot of money while getting you closer to your science teacher career goals.