How to Break Into Teaching

I guess it really depends on what level you wish to teach. If you wish to teach K-12, then the combination of experience and a master’s degree will take you far in getting your foot in the door. You’ll also need to earn a teaching certification for whatever state where you are seeking a job. Certainly there is a shortage of teachers in many parts of the country — and because technology has become such an important part of the curriculum, someone with your credentials should be in high demand. Don’t discount yourself or your credentials; focus on the positive!

If you want to break into the college ranks, your best bets are community colleges and temporary positions at four-year schools. Many community colleges are more flexible in their hiring criteria and look at a mix of degrees and experience, thus you should find numerous permanent positions. But because technology is also in such demand at the college level, and because there is a limited number of qualified candidates, there may also be numerous offerings for instructor-level positions. In the end, if you want to teach full-time at the college level, you are going to have to seriously consider getting your doctoral degree.

So, your next step? Regardless of the level you want to teach, your next step is to begin developing your network. Join an industry professional organization (and join a discussion group and/or attend a conference), talk with your professors about contacts in the field, track down alumni, and check with family and friends who may have connections to teaching.

There are also numerous excellent job sites on the Web related to all levels of teaching. At a minimum, you can begin reading job descriptions and requirements and better position yourself as an ideal candidate as you develop your list of prospective employers. Follow this link on Quintessential Careers: Academic, Educator, and Teaching Jobs.