Online Teaching Degree
Nikita Nath
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WebsiteNikita is a psychologist working primarily with children using a child rights-based approach. She also writes content for various websites and blogs on diverse topics, focusing primarily on academia. Her hobbies include traveling, reading, and discovering different coffee-making techniques.
Degrees
Bachelors in English, Journalism, and Psychology; Masters in psychology with clinical specialization
nikitanath8@gmail.com
nikitanath8@gmail.comAreas of Expertise & Credentials
- 2 years of experience working as a content writer with various start-ups
- 1 year of experience working as a child psychologist with Insight
- Working on various projects of inclusion for neurodivergent children
- 2+ years of experience teaching psychology online
- Best Online Bachelor’s Degree In Psychology Program
- Find Online Bachelor’s Degree In Psychology
- Types Of Online Bachelor’s Degree In Psychology Programs
- What To Expect From The Online Bachelor’s Degree In Psychology Program?
- Areas Of Specialization For Online Bachelor’s Degree In Psychology
- Why Should I Pursue An Online Bachelor’s Degree In Psychology?
- Areas Of Specialization For Online Bachelor’s Degree In Psychology
- Why Should I Pursue An Online Bachelor’s Degree In Psychology?
- Types Of Online Bachelor’s Degree In Psychology Programs
- Areas Of Specialization For Online Bachelor’s Degree In Psychology
- Why Should I Pursue An Online Bachelor’s Degree In Psychology?
- Areas Of Specialization For Online Bachelor’s Degree In Psychology
Education is a fulfilling career path that allows an individual to make a significant impact in the lives of others. Even though teaching is a relatively common career, a slew of positions is available outside of the traditional educational context as well. One can influence policy and the system from the inside by working in administration, curriculum development, or leadership positions. No matter where the career takes an educator, Online Teaching Degree programs can get them ready for everything from the classroom to the boardroom. Leadership skills and real-world experience from instructors with decades of experience can help people succeed in their careers within education. An online bachelor’s degree in education is a typical 4-year undergraduate program that can be tailored to match one’s professional goals. With the wide availability of online teaching degree courses and specializations, a bachelor of education is designed to prepare individuals to make a difference in the well-being and care of children in various settings. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts an expansion in education occupations of 10% from 2020 to 2030, about as fast as average for all occupations. This in-depth guide sheds light on various aspects of the teaching degree, including the best schools and colleges for online education degrees, career options, available certifications, funding alternatives, and much more.
Best Online Colleges for
Teaching Degrees
Prospective students frequently search for the best online college for teaching degree or online classes for education major that are both high-quality and cost-effective. To be ranked on the top charts, various characteristics of colleges or online education programs must be considered, including the faculty’s qualifications and teaching experience, the institution’s infrastructure, accreditation status, availability of student support services, affordability, the breadth of courses offered, and more. FBD’s experts have picked some of the best colleges for teaching degrees and best online education programs based on all of these and other considerations.
Here are the best online bachelor’s degree in education programs: *
| Univ | Address | Tuition | Grad Rate |
| University of Washington | 1400 NE Campus Parkway, Seattle, Washington 98195 | $11,745 | 82% |
Universities and programs are ranked by various factors, such as affordability, curriculum and coursework, reputation and availability, program length, statistics, the potential of employment, and return on investment for the students. For a more in-depth analysis, please read about our rankings methodology page.
Find Online Bachelor’s Degree
in Teaching Near Me
While some students want to attend a college that provides a high-quality bachelor’s degree program in education at an affordable price regardless of location, others may prefer to attend a college in their city or close to home. When other factors such as in-state and out-of-state tuition prices, transportation costs, boarding, and so on are taken into account, location becomes even more important. Furthermore, some students might want to find a program based on some specific criteria, such as the best online teaching credential programs California, as an example. FBD staff have compiled a list of ‘ teaching degree near me’ to assist students in finding the finest program based on their location across the United States:
How to become a Teacher after
High-School
Many aspiring teachers are often plagued with questions and dilemmas about becoming teachers after high school. The following questions and answers provide some insight to help such prospective students make informed decisions:
Do you need a teaching degree to teach?
Yes, a teaching degree is the foremost and fundamental necessity for a teaching profession.
What degree to be a teacher?
Any of the following degrees can lead to a teaching career. However, it is worth noting that the educational level and other factors determine how and where a teacher can teach. (For example, an associate degree in education holder cannot teach in post-secondary settings.)
What courses are required for teaching?
The coursework for a teaching degree primarily depends on the chosen specialization, such as Elementary Education, Special Education, or Physical Education. While each such concentration will bring with it several specific courses, a bachelor’s in education program will typically consist of general, education, and elective courses aimed at preparing the teachers of tomorrow.
What type of degree does a teacher need?
In general, to be a teacher, a candidate requires a bachelor’s degree as a minimum educational requirement. Nevertheless, some teaching jobs do not require a bachelor’s degree, such as preschool teachers, and (in some states) kindergarten teachers, who may be able to make do with just an associate degree and/or teaching certificate. On the other hand, several careers in education require a degree that is above the bachelor’s level and is a common requirement for specialist positions and senior leadership, such as school administrators or principals, where a master’s degree is usually the basic requirement.
Where can I study to become a teacher?
Numerous colleges across the country offer bachelor’s in education programs and other education programs with or without certifications that lead to licensure. Students must be wise to choose an accredited college or program because accreditation is a requirement for licensure and makes the candidate readily employable.
Graduates must pass the relevant examinations to gain teacher licensure in their state after completing an accepted and accredited bachelor’s degree program in education. The Praxis series of exams are used in most states, either independently or in combination with state-specific tests. At least two exams are required of prospective teachers – one in teaching abilities and knowledge (also known as pedagogy) related to the grade level/s the examinee desires to teach, and another in subject knowledge for the subject/s they wish to teach.
What to expect From an Online
teaching degree Program?
Students with a bachelor’s degree in education will have a comprehensive liberal arts education as well as a solid foundation of teaching knowledge and expertise. They will study many of the same requirements and bigger lecture classes that most students take throughout their first two years of college before specializing in upper-level education classes at the end of their studies. The content and pedagogy of teaching are both emphasized in the education program curriculum.
Content – entails the knowledge teachers will be giving their students.
Pedagogy – entails the learning and practice of the art of teaching based on practical considerations and psychological underpinnings.
In general, students can expect their bachelor’s program to give them opportunities for student teaching, as certain states have stringent criteria for aspiring teachers. These are not the same as teacher practicums, which are necessary if one already has a teaching certificate. Student teaching is a supervised preparation program that provides a specific number of hours of teaching experience to an individual (usually the length of a quarter or semester, depending upon their school). To receive their certification or license in their state, they must undergo student teaching.
As for coursework, the bachelor’s in education program will generally consist of (a) General Courses of about 40 to 45 credits, (b) Education Courses of about 35 to 40 credits, and (c) Elective Courses of about 40 credits, totaling to about 120 credits in all. The following is a list of some of the courses typically found in an online bachelor in education program:
- Science Methods
- Elementary Science Methods
- Integrated Physical Sciences
- Group Behavior
- Survey of United States History
- Classroom Management
- Inclusive Classroom
- Health, Fitness, and Wellness
- Survey of World History
- Social Studies Methods
- Children’s Literature
- Educational Psychology and Development of Children and Adolescents
- Child and Human Development
- Educational Foundations
- English Composition
- The School as a Community of Care
- Introduction to Humanities
- Elementary Physical Education and Health Methods
- Educational Technology for Teaching and Learning
- Elementary Disciplinary Literacy
- Student Assessment and Evaluation
- Inclusive Classrooms
- Elementary Visual and Performing Arts Methods
- Biology
- Introduction to Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment
- Assessing Impact on Student Learning
- Mathematics for Elementary Educators
- Visual and Performing Arts Methods
- Educational Curriculum Creation and Modification
- Language Arts Instruction and Intervention
- Mathematics Concepts
- American Politics and the US Constitution
- Physical Science
- Managing Engaging Learning Environments
- Elementary Mathematics Methods
- Fundamentals of Diverse Learners
- Elementary Social Studies Methods
- Psychology and Development
- Physical Education and Sport
- Diverse learners
- Instructional strategies (Preschool to Grade 12)
- Educational foundations
- Elementary Reading Methods and Interventions
- Community of Care
- English Language Learning and Literacy Integration
- Natural Science Lab
- Introduction to Biology
- Introduction to Communication
Types of Online Teaching
Degrees
An online bachelor’s in education comes in various degree types and concentrations. The two primary types are a Bachelor of Arts or BA in Education and the Bachelor of Science or BS in Education. Although both provide the required knowledge and skill for a future in teaching and offer similar career prospects, pay, and growth, there are distinct differences between the two.
Bachelor of Arts in Education
The Bachelor of Arts in education or BA Education online is based on the liberal arts and humanities and offers a more well-rounded and diverse curriculum. Students of a BA teaching degree online take classes in the arts, social sciences, foreign languages, and other subjects in addition to core courses in education.
Bachelor of Science in Education
The Bachelor of Science in education or BS Education online is based on STEM fields like math and science. This degree is more focused on teaching and takes a technical approach towards the subject of education, making it a preferred choice for those wanting to start their careers straight out of college.
The various branches and other types of education degrees include:
Note: Many universities and professional organizations refer to the undergraduate degree in education as Bachelor of Education or B.Ed. In essence, however, there is no significant difference between this and other degree titles, and they are sometimes interchangeable.
Specializations and Concentrations for
Bachelors in Education
Several concentration and focus areas are available within the field of education. The concentration one chooses will impact the career pathways available to them, especially if they plan to enter the workforce soon after graduation. The following are examples of bachelor in education specializations:
Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education
The Early Childhood Education bachelor’s degree program provides the skills necessary to effectively engage, educate, and empower diverse learners between the ages of infant/toddler and grades K-3. The program emphasizes child development, English language learners, and family-centered practices.
Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education
The Elementary Education bachelor’s degree program provides students the skills and credentials to educate and care for diverse learners. Students learn how to handle unique educational situations, understand social and emotional development in children, introduce technology and diversity inclusion in the classroom, and become better teachers.
Bachelor’s degree in Special Education
The Special Education bachelor’s degree program prepares students to become licensed teachers and work with children who have a wide range of disabilities and learning needs. Students learn how to utilize unique learning techniques and strategies to help such children learn to function as best they can.
Examples of a few more specializations in education include:
- Online History Teaching degree
- Online Library Science degree
- Bachelor degree in teaching English as a second language online
- Bachelor’s degree in Child Development
- Bachelor’s degree in Health Education
- Physical Education Teacher online degree
- Art Teacher Education degree online
- General Education degree online
- Drama Teaching degree online
- Physical Education degree online
- Educational Technology degree online
Should I Get an Online Bachelors
in Education?
As part of a bachelor’s degree in education, students are required to take courses in educational philosophy and introduction to education, among other topics. These programs train individuals to develop lesson plans and use technology in the classroom, preparing future teachers to be role models and motivators for their students.
There are several compelling reasons to get a bachelor’s in education. For one, teachers have a significant impact on students’ lives. Children and entire classrooms are inspired and motivated by them, benefiting their family, school, or community as well. Second, teachers are classroom leaders who assist youngsters in developing their own leadership abilities to live successful and satisfying lives. Third, they contribute to the betterment of their communities, helping eliminate inequality in the classroom and providing the opportunity for all children to attain their full potential. Fourth, teachers share their passions with their students. Teaching allows combining a passion for a subject with the desire to engage with children or teenagers. Their enthusiasm and energy may motivate today’s pupils to pursue careers as poets, artists, engineers, activists, or entrepreneurs in the future. Finally, teachers who inspire and drive children to learn are revered and respected.
Are online teaching degrees respected? Yes, they are, provided they are earned from an accredited university. The bachelor’s in education leads to the noble profession of teaching, which is liked by many and respected by all. Graduates of this degree will find work in teaching or administrative roles in a variety of educational settings. With the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicting an expansion in education occupations of 10% from 2020 to 2030, a bachelor’s of education seems a good choice.
Some of the skills one can acquire from an online bachelor’s in education degree program include but are not limited to:
- analyze the use of technology in the classroom, taking into account the impact on student learning and any potential difficulties with equity or access.
- create a secure, productive learning environment that supports healthy social connections as well as individual and collaborative learning and proper classroom behavior by establishing norms and routines
- build learning environments that fulfill all students’ cultural, social, and emotional learning needs by incorporating knowledge of individual learners, varied cultures, and communities
- use equity pedagogy to meet the demands of students from diverse backgrounds c
- analyze teaching techniques influenced by the application of policies, practices, and legal requirements.
- outline practical, legal, and ethical ways to communicate with students, parents, administrators, and other stakeholders.
- explore options for furthering education and career as a teacher.
- synthesize information about students and assessment data to align lessons to learning objectives.
How to get a Teaching
Degree?
How to get a teaching degree? A high school diploma or GED and GPA, ACT, or SAT scores are required for admission to an online bachelor in education degree program. Before formal acceptance to an education degree program, certain institutions may need candidates to complete some prerequisite courses, especially if they have no prior work experience in the education field. Here are some of the primary teaching degree requirements for admission into a bachelor’s program:
Students pursuing a degree in education should always check with the admissions office of the school they plan to attend to find out the exact prerequisites for admission. These requirements may fluctuate depending on the institution, and program one chooses. In general, prerequisite courses may include subjects such as U.S. History, English, Math, and Science.
How long does it take to get a
Teaching Degree?
How long does it take to get a teaching degree, and how many credits to become a teacher? A typical bachelor’s in education degree program involves approximately 120 credit hours and takes 3 to 5 years to finish, on average. Naturally, factors such as part-time or full-time study, coursework load, chosen electives, specialization, internship and projects, program delivery (on-campus, in-person, or hybrid), and credit transfers will all influence the length of a typical 4-year teaching degree online program. Fast-track or accelerated programs are available at some universities, which can minimize the time it takes to complete a bachelor’s in education degree. In all, how many years of college to be a teacher? – the answer is 3 to 5 years, including a bachelor’s education and some certification and/or licensure.
Accreditation for Online Bachelors
in Education Programs
Accreditation is the process of a third-party agency evaluating and determining the quality of a college or university’s educational program. Although accreditation is not a government process, most educational institutions have adopted it as a criterion for providing financial aid, licensure, and other benefits to students. A college or university must meet specified accreditation standards, including providing students with relevant education and enough information to make an informed decision. Accreditation is crucial because it lends validity to colleges and universities and because employers will usually accept degrees only from accredited online schools for education. Any of the six regional accrediting bodies recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and/or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) can accredit a college that offers an online bachelor’s degree in education. The following are the six regional accrediting agencies:
- New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC)
- Middle States Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools (MSA-CESS)
- Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
Students can visit the official U.S Department of Education website or CHEA website to check a school’s accreditation status or whether the college they are applying to offers accredited online teaching degree programs.
Aside from regional accreditation, many colleges and education programs also seek accreditation from a specialized accrediting agency to verify that their degrees are recognized and valued. The following are some examples of specialized accrediting bodies that may accredit either an institution or degree program or both:
Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP)
Through evidence-based accreditation, the Council for Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) promotes equity and excellence in educator preparation by ensuring quality and promoting continuous improvement to improve P-12 student learning. The CAEP continually evaluates and improves internal regulations, processes, and procedures to ensure openness, accountability, fiscal effectiveness, and high-quality service and assistance, as well as to set an example of equity and diversity.
Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP)
The Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP) is a membership organization and quality assurance agency that provides accreditation and formative support to educator preparation programs of all types. High-quality educator training that increases educators’ ability to serve all children, schools, and communities equally are encouraged and recognized by AAQEP.
National Board for Professional Teaching Standards
The National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS) was created to assist schools across the country in developing, retaining, and recognizing outstanding teachers while also encouraging ongoing growth. It is the highest and most respected teaching credential available.
More information on accreditation is available in the Accreditation Guide.
Free Programs providing Online Bachelor’s
Degree in Education
Free courses do not lead to universally recognized online teaching bachelor’s degrees. Sites that claim to offer free online teaching degrees may also be dubious and are best avoided. However, free courses are valuable resources to get new knowledge and broaden one’s viewpoint on a specific topic in the field of education. Here are several websites that provide free courses that may be helpful to students pursuing a bachelor’s degree in education online:
| Course | Description | Offered by |
|---|---|---|
| Education and topics related to Education | Coursera offers several courses on education from both theoretical and applied perspectives. Topics include Instructional Design, Special Education, Pedagogy, Educational Technology, etc. | Coursera |
| Education and topics related to Education | Alison offers free courses on various topics in education that are self-paced and do not require any previous experience or knowledge. Topics include Introduction to the Learning Process for Teachers and Trainers, Physical Education – Coaching Styles and Techniques, Special Needs School Shadow Support, Understanding Student Development and Diversity, Managing Safety and Health in Schools, Effective Communication Techniques for Teachers and Trainers, and more. | Alison |
| Education and topics related to Education | Class Central has paid and free online courses and MOOCs from reputed institutions such as the University of Michigan, University of California, Irvine, John Hopkins University, etc. | Class Central |
Accelerated Online Teaching
Degrees
Accelerated and fast-track education degree programs are tailored for students who want to complete their studies and enter the workplace as soon as possible. With accelerated programs, students can typically start at any time of the year, giving them more flexibility when enrolling and completing semesters. Furthermore, because accelerated classes are almost twice as fast as ordinary sessions, they offer a unique advantage over regular classes. A typical 16-week semester can be completed in as little as eight weeks, and a typical 4-year degree can be completed in as little as two to three years (depending on transfer credits and course load per term). However, students must keep in mind that the fastest online education degree programs can be rather demanding and time-consuming.
Accelerated programs may also combine a 4-year bachelor’s and 2-year master’s degree in a total of 5 years, instead of the usual 6 years. Here is an example of an accelerated program:
Western Governors University
Western Governors University offers a Bachelor of Arts Elementary Education degree that leads to teacher licensure. The program can be potentially completed within 36 months (3 years).
How much does an Online Bachelor’s Degree
in Education cost?
The online teaching degree cost varies depending on the school one opts for and other factors such as state residency, type of institution, enrollment status, and program format. In general, as reported by Education Data Initiative, tuition for a bachelor’s degree for in-state students averages $38,496 and for out-of-state students $54,183. Tuition at private colleges averages $60,593.
How to Pay for Online
Education Programs?
How much does it cost to become a teacher? Tuition costs vary widely depending on the institution, degree or program, and academic success level. The fee structures for each college and program are also distinct. Almost every university will have fees and tuition rates relevant to their programs, which run into tens of thousands of dollars. For prospective students who find the overall costs for a bachelor’s degree in education prohibitive, they can explore financial aid from several available sources. Some options to fund an online bachelor’s degree in education include:
Scholarships
Scholarships are awards given to students to assist them in paying for their education. Scholarships are available through individuals, private bodies, community groups, charitable organizations, corporate houses, or the university one is applying to. Most student scholarships are merit-based, meaning they are given to students who have demonstrated academic excellence.
Grants
Grants are financial aid awards given to students by federal and state governments, as well as individuals, communities, charitable organizations, and corporations. Grants are usually need-based and typically provided to students who demonstrate financial need. Grant money can be used to pay for tuition or other educational expenses such as transportation, boarding, and supplies, among other things.
Student Loans
A college education can be funded via student loans from the federal government, banks, or private lenders. Unlike scholarships and grants, which are “free money” and do not require repayment, loans must be repaid. Loans also accrue interest, which must be paid either during its term or after the term. Defaulting or postponing payments will add to student debt, which could take years to pay off.
FAFSA or Free Application For Student Aid is a federal financial aid application that all current and prospective college students must complete to check their eligibility for aid and receive the best financial aid package possible. The FAFSA Student Aid provides detailed information.
Read our in-depth What is Financial Aid and How to Pay for College guides.
Scholarships for Online Bachelor’s
Degree in Education
Prospective students can apply for a number of scholarships for a bachelor’s degree in education, provided by nonprofit organizations, universities, or individuals. Listed below are a few examples:
| Scholarship | Description | Amount/Award | Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| AfterCollege Succurro Scholarship | The AfterCollege Succurro Scholarship is awarded to students currently enrolled in or working towards a degree in any discipline in an accredited post-secondary institution. | $500 | March 31, 2024 |
| Student Teacher Scholarship Sponsored by the Helen McKay Memorial | The Student Teacher Scholarship Sponsored by the Helen McKay Memorial is awarded to two student teachers intending to teach in the Hawaii State Department of Education who are enrolled in a state-approved Teacher Education Program as a full-time undergraduate or post-baccalaureate candidate in any state-approved or nationally accredited institution of higher learning. | $2,000 x 2 awards | TBA |
| Trythall Family Scholarship for Excellence in Continuing Education | The Trythall Family Scholarship for Excellence in Continuing Education fund assists individuals in the pursuit of excellence while maintaining a career. The scholarship is meant to aid older, non-traditional students who have taken the initiative to reach a goal and have demonstrated a commitment to that goal. | $3,000 | June 02, 2024 |
FAQs about Online Teaching
Degrees
How to get an online teaching degree?
A High School Diploma or General Educational Development (GED) with a good Grade Point Average (GPA) is required for a bachelor’s degree in education. Applicants must also complete other qualifying requirements, including submitting official academic transcripts and SAT/ACT scores, as well as selecting a specialization that best meets their needs. A list of general admission requirements is published on this page.
What are the best bachelor’s programs in education?
What can you do with a teaching degree?
What is the average fee charged by the colleges?
Can you get a teaching degree online?
What classes do you take to become a teacher?
What type of degree does a teacher need?
How many credits to become a teacher?
Where can I study to become a teacher?
Career Opportunities and Salaries after Online
Bachelor’s Degree in Education
In addition to a bachelor’s degree in education, teaching professions will typically require training, certification, and licensure. Education bachelor’s degree holders can work in various teaching positions or administrative and training roles within academic institutions or elsewhere.
So, what can you do with an education degree? Several roles are available for bachelor’s in education degree holders, including:
As for pay, graduates of the bachelor’s degree in education earn well and have a healthy job outlook in most occupations. For example, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that Preschool Teachers earn an annual median salary of $31,930 and can expect jobs to expand 18% between 2020 and 2030, much faster than average.
Here are some job titles, salaries, and job outlook details in education, as reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS):
| Skills Required | Job Description | Median Annual Salary | Job Growth (up to 2030) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Middle School Teacher | A Middle school teacher educates students, typically between the sixth and eighth grades. They help students build on the fundamentals taught in elementary school and prepare students for high school. A Middle School Teacher also creates lesson plans to teach students a subject and grades students’ assignments and exams. | $60,810 | 7% (as fast as average) |
| Kindergarten and Elementary School Teacher | A Kindergarten and Elementary School Teacher prepares young pupils for middle school by teaching them basic subjects like math and reading. They take a hands-on approach to teaching children how to understand abstract concepts, solve issues, and build critical-thinking abilities while also teaching them how to interact with others. | $60,660 | 7% (as fast as average) |
| Career and Technical Education Teacher | A Career and Technical Education (CTE) teacher provides training in subjects such as auto repair, cosmetology, and culinary arts. They teach vocational and technical content to give students the skills and knowledge necessary to enter an occupation by showing them how to apply classroom knowledge through hands-on activities. | $59,140 | 5% (slower than average) |
| High School Teacher | A High School Teacher helps prepare students for life after graduation. They teach academic lessons and various skills that students will need to attend college or to enter the job market. A High School Teacher may also plan lessons and instruct their students in the subject they teach, and train students for standardized tests required by the state. | $62,870 | 8% (as fast as average) |
| Special Education Teacher | A Special Education Teacher caters to students with learning, mental, emotional, or physical challenges. They customize general education lessons and teach individuals with mild to moderate disabilities a variety of subjects. A Special Education Teacher may also teach basic skills to students with severe disabilities. | $61,500 | 8% (as fast as average) |
Certifications and Licensing for Online
Bachelors in Education
After completing training programs and passing standardized evaluations, a teacher can gain certifications. It is crucial to remember that certification does not imply that a teacher is better qualified than one who is not certified. But earning board certification might entitle people to financial benefits like reimbursement for license and certification fees, higher compensation packages, and advancement in the education sector. Certification is necessary for most employment contexts in the education industry to demonstrate specialized knowledge, expertise, and competence in a sub-field of education, leading to licensure. Here are some examples of education-related certifications:
Certified Childcare Professional (CCP)
The National Early Childhood Program Accreditation (NECPA) administers the Certified Childcare Professional (CCP), created exclusively for early childhood educators and teachers. CCPs are regarded as accomplished individuals who have received national and state recognition for their contributions to childcare and early childhood education.
Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential
The Child Development Associate (CDA) certificate is the most well-known and acknowledged credential in early childhood teaching, administered by the ChildCare Education Institute (CCEI). It allows early childhood educators who work with children aged birth to five years old to demonstrate and improve their knowledge, comprehension, and teaching techniques. The CDA Credential is not only a necessary component of progressing in the field of early childhood education, but it is also an essential professional development learning experience and a valuable resource.
National Board Certified Teacher (NBCT)
The National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS) designed the National Board Certification to assist teachers to grow, retain, and be recognized for their accomplishments, as well as to foster continual improvement in schools across the country. It is the highest and most respected teaching credential available. Art, Early Adolescence through Young Adulthood, Early Childhood and Middle Childhood Art, Career and Technical Education, English Language Arts, English as a New Language, Exceptional Needs, Health Education, Library Media, and more are some of the many NBCT certifications.
Do you need a teaching license to teach college? Yes, prospective teachers must get certification from the state where they wish to teach to allow teaching in public schools and many private schools. They must fulfill a variety of requirements in order to do so. They must also complete a state-mandated number of student-teaching hours in addition to a bachelor’s degree from an approved college or university. Students in online education should be aware that many online teaching programs do not contain a student-teaching component. Therefore they will need to apply to an outside teaching-preparation school to meet this need.
Candidates for teaching positions must also pass a series of Praxis exams and a background check. Each state has its own licensing guideline; therefore, students should consult with the state’s education department where they want to work for specific licensure requirements.
Additional Resources for Online
Teaching Degrees
Teaching is a global profession that changes with time and circumstance. Teachers and education students would do well to interact with peers, compare notes, discuss ideas, and do much more to improve their knowledge and skills that impact children in more ways than one, especially when new discoveries and novel teaching approaches emerge periodically. Here are a few professional organizations and resources that can assist education students and professionals with this:
American Association of School Personnel Administrators (AASPA)
The American Association of School Personnel Administrators (AASPA) is the only organization targeting and representing school personnel professionals. Human resource administrators, personnel support staff, superintendents, principals, or graduate students interested in the field, will benefit from a membership with AASPA. The association provides resources, professional development activities, and networking opportunities to help members work efficiently, legally, and effectively.
Teacher Certification Degrees
Teacher Certification Degrees is a comprehensive certification resource for anyone interested in becoming a teacher or furthering their teaching profession by receiving a second degree. The site delivers the most up-to-date and relevant information to help people understand the facts they need to get their teaching certification in their state. Profiles of popular schools and reviews of teacher certification programs written by previous students are available to anyone researching school alternatives in their state. In the career interview area, one can find insights from over 50 current instructors on what it takes to be a successful teacher.
Association of American Educators (AAE)
The Association of American Educators (AAE) is the United States’ largest non-union professional educator organization. The AAE promotes professionalism, collaboration, and quality in education while remaining nonpartisan in its approach to teacher representation and educational advocacy. It also advances the profession through creative ways to teacher representation and educational advocacy.
National Education Association (NEA)
The National Education Association (NEA), made up of more than 3 million educators, students, activists, workers, and parents, believes in equal opportunity for all students and in the power of public education to transform lives and create a more equitable and inclusive society. Professional excellence, change advocacy, student success, and other matters are all addressed by the NEA.
Association for Middle Level Education (AMLE)
The Association for Middle Level Education (AMLE) is the only international organization dedicated to middle school educators. AMLE is the go-to source for peer-reviewed research, best practices, and professional development in middle-level education, with over 35,000 members. Members can explore content and tools to reach every student and grow professionally through various resources, including periodicals, online courses, podcasts, a career center, and more.
Author Bio:
Nikita Nath
Nikita is a psychologist working primarily with children using a child rights-based approach. She also writes content for various websites and blogs on diverse topics, focusing primarily on academia. Her hobbies include traveling, reading, and discovering different coffee-making techniques.
Degrees
Bachelors in English, Journalism, and Psychology; Masters in psychology with clinical specialization
- nikitanath8@gmail.com
Areas of Expertise & Credentials
- 2 years of experience working as a content writer with various start-ups
- 1 year of experience working as a child psychologist with Insight
- Working on various projects of inclusion for neurodivergent children
- 2+ years of experience teaching psychology online
Disclaimer:
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