A friend of mine suggested that I get a teaching certificate so that I could teach or substitute teach when I move. I was wondering if anyone else had done that, and if they could give me any information on it?

How does one go about getting the certificate?
How long does it usually take to get a certificate?
Is it expensive at all?
Can you always pick what school subjects/grades you would prefer to teach, or does that depend on the state?

Thank you ahead of time!

a "teaching certificate" is a 4 year degree in education from a college or university-as to how expensive-that depends on the state, programs and tution options they will give you-when you get a degree in education you usually specailize in elementary or secondary education-people with degrees in elementary educaiton generally teach grades K-5 and they study things like early child hood development and such in addition to teaching methods. People ceritified in secondary eduaction generally-but not always have a four year degree is something like math or history and then a masters degree (two more years) in education although you can get a four year education degree and specailize in a subject. You also do student teaching or practice teaching.
Some states will allow you to subsitute with only a 2 year degree and it can be with in any subject as long as you meet certain general education requirements. Some states want you to have a 4 year degree but do not require subs to have a 4 year degree in education. Most states require you to take some kind of exam before you are a certified sub. with subbing you can generally specify that you prefer to only be called for elementary or high school or what ever but that will reduce the number of days of work you get. I used to sub and enjoyed it very much as a stop gap between full time work.

Some states, Georgia being one, have a special program for becoming a teacher without having an education degree. However, they do require a four year degree of some sort.

Subbing can be a good interim job when the economy is doing well. When the economy is in the tank, like now and back in 2002-2003, everybody and their brother are putting in for substitute positions because they can't find regular jobs. I went through that in 2003 and was never called for a single substitute assignment even though I have a masters degree.

I had tried substituting, but I only got called once in a matter of two months so unless you are looking for a job that pays more, try doing teaching assistant or maybe a recreation assistant.

Subbing isn't bad, but it was just not for me. Good luck w/ your search!

quote:

How does one go about getting the certificate?
How long does it usually take to get a certificate?
Is it expensive at all?
Can you always pick what school subjects/grades you would prefer to teach, or does that depend on the state?

Thank you ahead of time!

If you go full steam ahead, full time (4 courses) a semesterd, you could finish it in a year (well at least in the State of California), but brace yourself, finishing your classes in CA require 3 teacher exams--CBEST, CSET (there are different kinds) and RICA.

Cost depends on what school you go to. Wherever you go, make sure you finish the program, some classes aren't transferable. Many wives go to school online--that way they don't worry about moving and which classes will transfer over, but look into the certification you will get. Not all state certifications are on the same level.

As a teacher, no you don't always get to pick the grade & subject you want to teach, it's like supply and demand. You can apply for it and tell them this is what you want to teach, its whether or not they have that slot open.

Good luck, teaching is very gratifying, but it isn't for everyone and if it's just a "job" for you and not a passion, you won't enjoy it and the kids suffer in the end.