FAQ
Adult Education Teacher FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as an adult education teacher.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming an adult education teacher: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about adult education teachers
Do adult education teachers need a license?
It depends on the state and program.
What is TESOL?
Training for teaching English to speakers of other languages.
Are there full-time jobs?
Many positions are part-time, though some programs hire full-time.
How much does an adult education teacher make?
The median annual wage for adult education teachers was $61,540 ($29.59 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $41,810 and the highest 10% earned more than $98,030.
How long does it take to become an adult education teacher?
Most people need about 4 years plus certificates of training. A bachelor’s degree is typical. Some states require a teaching license; ESL teachers often have TESOL or TEFL certificates.
Do you need a degree to be an adult education teacher?
Usually. BLS lists a bachelor’s degree as typical, and some programs require a teaching license. Volunteer and part-time roles may accept less, especially with TESOL training.
Is adult education teacher a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change -13.9% from 2025–35 (a projected decline), with about 3,800 openings each year. Upsides include highly motivated students; a common challenge is that many part-time positions.
What skills does an adult education teacher need?
Key technical skills include adult literacy instruction, esl teaching methods, ged and hiset prep, and assessment. Employers also value patience, cultural sensitivity, and encouragement.
What certifications are available for adult education teachers?
Common credentials include TESOL or TEFL certificate, State adult education credential, GED instructor training, and Teaching license. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Still deciding?
Try the Adult Education Teacher fit quiz, compare with Tutor, or explore Adult Education Teacher training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 25-3011 (Adult basic education, adult secondary education, and english as a second language instructors).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Adult basic education, adult secondary education, and english as a second language instructors (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.