Overview
Teaching is one of the most challenging and rewarding jobs that you can do and it takes a special type of person to work with kids. If you are the kind of person who enjoys working with young people, then pursuing a teaching degree may be the right choice for you. Teaching degrees come in many different types, so it is important to know what type and specialization that you want to teach before you choose a teaching program.
Benefits
Some people have a particular passion for a field of study or a work subject. With a specific kind of teaching degree, they can share that passion with young people. If you love your career field and are successful in it, then participation and earning one of the many types of teaching degrees might be one way to maximize your potential in your chosen area. You can work in regular hours and have time to spare for your family or hobbies.
Costs
The costs of attending a school that offers a teaching degree vary widely, depending on the school and program that a student decides to select. A master in teaching program for elementary or secondary school teaching would cost around $5,000 for in-state and about $15,000 for out-state from the University of Washington. On an average, it can cost anything between $4,000 and $15,000.
Schools
There are many colleges and universities across the United States as well as around the world that offer teaching courses. When you investigate a program that offers teaching degrees, make sure it has the required accreditation. A few schools offering teaching degree include Bluefield State College, Seattle University, and Washington State University. Ashford University, Kaplan University, and Drexel University offer online courses in education.
Testing & Preparation
You can start your preparation by talking to a few teachers who have experience in the field. You will also have to pass either a state test or the Praxis series of exams to gain license. This test provides numerous educational tests as well as other services as a part of teacher licensure procedure. The PRAXIS I test, also called Pre-Professional Sills test (PPST), tests your academic skills while PRAXIS II measures specific knowledge you have in your subject. Some colleges expect you to take the American College Test (ACT) and submit the marks for admission.
Financial Aid
Though earning a teaching degree is an investment for your future, you will still have to spend money from your pocket to attain one. You can find financial aid, which are provided by the institutions, state, federal, private sources or by means of grants, work-study, loans, and scholarships. The aid is based on the college costs, the financial needs, and funds available. You can apply for the federal student aid for your teacher's degree via FAFSA. The Washington State University provides scholarship to deserving students. The Seattle University offers Tree House Grant for foster children.
