Career roadmap
How to Become a High School Teacher
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a high school teacher, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a high school teacher: (1) earn a bachelor’s degree, (2) complete teacher preparation, (3) pass licensing exams, (4) get licensed, (5) advance. Most people need about 4 years plus licensing. BLS lists “bachelor's degree” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a high school teacher
Earn a bachelor’s degree
In your subject or education.
Complete teacher preparation
Student teaching in a high school.
Pass licensing exams
Subject and pedagogy tests.
Get licensed
Apply for certification.
Advance
Lead departments, teach AP or move into administration.
Education and training requirements
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.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Bachelor's degree |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | None |
| Typical training time | 4 years plus licensing |
Certifications and licenses
- State teaching license: Required for public school teaching.
- Subject endorsement: Certification for each subject taught.
- AP course training: College Board training for Advanced Placement courses.
- National Board Certification: Advanced credential for accomplished teachers.
Skills to build now
Start with subject expertise, lesson and unit planning, and assessment and grading, and practice communication and patience. Learning the high school teacher vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Student Teacher: Learn to teach.
- High School Teacher: Teach your subject.
- Department Chair: Lead a department.
- Assistant Principal or Principal: Lead a school.
Get a head start
Our self-paced High School Teacher training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
Can I teach without an education degree?
Yes, through alternative certification if you have a degree in your subject.
How long does it take to become a high school teacher?
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.
Do you need a degree to be a high school teacher?
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.
What certifications are available for high school teachers?
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.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 25-2031 (Secondary school teachers, except special and career/technical education).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Secondary school teachers, except special and career/technical education (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.