High School Teacher FAQ

Yes, for public schools.

Math, science, special education and career and technical education.

Yes, through alternative certification if you have a degree in your subject.

The median annual wage for high school teachers was $72,040 in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $48,780 and the highest 10% earned more than $107,600.

Most people need about 4 years plus licensing of training. Public school teachers need a bachelor’s degree, typically in their subject, a teacher preparation program with student teaching, and a state license with a subject endorsement.

Yes, for public schools. High school teachers need a bachelor’s degree and a state license, though many states offer alternative certification for people with degrees in the subject they want to teach.

It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change -0.2% from 2025–35 (little or no change), with about 63,500 openings each year. Upsides include teach a subject you love; a common challenge is that large grading workload.

Key technical skills include subject expertise, lesson and unit planning, assessment and grading, and classroom management. Employers also value communication, patience, and mentorship.

Common credentials include State teaching license, Subject endorsement, AP course training, and National Board Certification. Public high school teachers must be licensed by their state with endorsements in their subjects.