What Qualifications Are Needed to Become a High School Teacher?

Becoming a high school teacher is a rewarding career path that requires a combination of academic preparation, practical experience, and professional certification. Teachers play a critical role in shaping the intellectual and emotional development of teenagers as they prepare for college, careers, and adulthood. To enter this profession, aspiring educators must meet specific qualifications that ensure they are ready to guide and support students in a structured educational environment.

1. Earning a Bachelor’s Degree

The first step to becoming a high school teacher is earning a bachelor’s degree. Typically, this degree is in education or in the subject area you intend to teach—such as English, mathematics, science, or history. Many colleges offer secondary education programs that combine content knowledge with teaching methods and classroom experience.

• Subject-specific major: Ideal for those planning to teach core academic subjects.
• Education-focused programs: Include coursework on pedagogy, adolescent development, and classroom management.

2. Completing a Teacher Preparation Program

Most high school teaching roles require completion of a teacher preparation program. These programs provide hands-on training through supervised student teaching and help future educators develop skills in lesson planning, assessment, and differentiated instruction.

• Programs are typically integrated into a bachelor’s degree or completed separately through post-baccalaureate certification.
• Includes student teaching placements in real classroom settings under the guidance of experienced educators.

3. Obtaining State Certification or Licensure

In public schools, high school teachers must be certified by the state in which they intend to teach. The certification process typically involves:

• Passing standardized exams such as Praxis or state-specific teacher exams.
• Completing a background check and meeting any moral character requirements.
• Submitting transcripts, proof of teacher preparation, and application fees.

Some states offer alternative certification routes for individuals with a degree in another field who want to transition into teaching.

4. Earning Endorsements for Subject Areas

High school teachers often need subject-area endorsements on their teaching licenses. This verifies their competency to teach specific subjects, such as biology, mathematics, or language arts.

• Endorsements are based on coursework and/or passing subject-specific exams.
• Teachers can add endorsements over time to expand their teaching qualifications.

5. Gaining Classroom Experience

Beyond formal education, experience is key. Most teacher preparation programs include practicum or internship components, but new teachers can also gain experience through:

• Student teaching in high school settings.
• Volunteering in tutoring programs or educational nonprofits.
• Serving as a substitute teacher to gain exposure to various classroom environments.

6. Pursuing Additional Certifications and Development

While not always required, additional certifications can improve job prospects and salary potential. These may include:

• Advanced Placement (AP) certification to teach college-level high school courses.
• ESL or Special Education endorsements for working with specialized populations.
• National Board Certification for demonstrating teaching excellence.

7. Essential Soft Skills and Competencies

Qualifications extend beyond academics and licensing. Successful high school teachers possess critical soft skills that enable them to connect with students and manage classroom dynamics:

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Adaptability and patience
• Organizational skills and time management
• Ability to motivate and inspire adolescents

Conclusion

Becoming a high school teacher requires dedication, formal training, and a passion for education. By meeting the academic, experiential, and licensing requirements—and developing key interpersonal skills—aspiring teachers can build a solid foundation for a successful and impactful career in education. Whether you're entering college or changing careers, these qualifications are your roadmap to becoming a trusted guide and mentor to the next generation of learners.