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How to Become a Teacher

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Become a Teacher

One Career—Many Paths

Like other high-skilled professions, there are key steps to becoming a teacher. The good news? You have several options to get there. We’ll walk you through an overview here, but if you’re looking for a detailed guide to certification—we’ve got you covered over on our Guide to Certification page.

  • 1

    Choose a Path

    Just starting college? Already have a degree? There’s a path for you. 

  • 2

    Choose a Program

    Teaching programs come in lots of flavors. Let’s find yours.

  • 3

    Apply to a Program

    Yes, it’s a little scary. And yes, we’ve got tools to help you ace it.

  • 4

    Find Financial Aid

    Don’t let finances hold you back. You have more options than you think.

  1. 1

    Know where you’re headed.

    A teacher works one-on-one with a middle school student at desk

    To become a classroom teacher, you’ll need to earn a bachelor’s degree and complete an approved program for teaching certification.

    • Earn your certificate and bachelor’s at the same time.  If you don’t have an undergrad degree yet, many colleges offer certificate programs that go along with your degree. Search programs. 
    • Teach while you earn your certificate. If you already have a degree, you may  be eligible for a paid teaching job right away.
    • Go for a master’s degree. You can earn a certificate as part of a master’s degree program. Search programs.
    Read the Guide to Certification
  2. 2

    Choose the program that fits you best.

    A future SC teacher researches teaching programs on laptop

    When it comes time to choose a program that will get you certified to teach, use our criteria to compare options. It’s easier to find a match when you know which programs will work best for you.

    Here’s How to Choose a Program
  3. 3

    Apply to a program with confidence.

    Three SC teaching candidates study together on campus lawn

    Once you’ve found the right program (you can apply to more than one!), it’s time to apply. You might need to write an essay, submit a resume, take a test or get letters of recommendation. We’ve got guides for all of that! You can also get $100 back after you apply!

    Check Out Application Guides
  4. 4

    Fund your teacher training.

    Three future SC teachers cheer excitedly. They are holding books and backpacks in front of a campus building.

    Are finances top of mind? You’ve got options when it comes to funding your training, from work study to loans to scholarships. We can help.

    • Apply for a $1,000 scholarship
    • Get money back on application fees
    • Search for financial aid
    Read the Finances Guide

Need help deciding what’s next?

You don’t have to do this alone. Let’s get you pointed in the right direction.

  • Ask an Expert

    Don’t be afraid to ask for help! Sign up for a phone call or email with someone who knows the ropes. It’s free, really popular and super helpful. 

    Get Advice

  • Browse Programs

    If you’re just shopping and dreaming for now, check out the Program Explorer and read profiles of South Carolina teaching programs.

    Learn More

  • Create an Account

    Create your free account, and access tools like essay and resume templates, $ back on applications, downloadable guides and more.

    Create an Account

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