What qualifications are required to become a teacher?

Here is the expanded question with added context:
“Given the increasing importance of quality education and the diverse pathways into the teaching profession, what specific qualifications, including educational degrees, state or national certifications, specialized training, and essential skills, are typically required to become a teacher for different educational levels (such as primary/elementary, secondary/high school, or post-secondary), and how might these requirements vary significantly across different countries, states, or specific subject areas like STEM, special education, or arts education?”

To become a teacher, specific qualifications vary significantly by country, state/province, and the level/subject taught, but the following core requirements are commonly demanded:

1. Educational Requirements:

   • Bachelor’s Degree: A minimum requirement is typically a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
   • Teacher Education Program: Completion of an approved teacher preparation program is mandatory. This can be:
     • An undergraduate degree program in education (e.g., B.Ed. – Bachelor of Education).
     • A post-baccalaureate teacher certification program (often called an “alternative route” or “accelerated program”) for individuals who already hold a bachelor’s degree in a specific subject area.
   • Subject-Specific Coursework: Significant coursework (often a major or equivalent) in the specific subject area(s) the teacher intends to teach (e.g., Mathematics, English, Science, History, Art). Elementary school teachers often require broad coursework across multiple subjects.
   • Pedagogical Coursework: Coursework covering educational theory, child/adolescent development, learning strategies, curriculum design, classroom management, and educational technology.

2. Certification/Licensure Requirements:

   • State/Provincial License/Credential: Graduates of approved programs must apply for and obtain a teaching license or credential issued by the state’s or province’s Department of Education or equivalent licensing board. This is non-negotiable for public school employment in most regions.
   • Background Checks: Mandatory criminal background checks and fingerprinting are standard parts of the licensing process.
   • Licensing Exams: Passing standardized examinations is a universal requirement. Common exams include:
     • Basic Skills Test: Assesses fundamental literacy, numeracy, and writing skills (e.g., Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators, CBEST in California).
     • Subject Area Assessment: Demonstrates knowledge of the specific subject(s) to be taught (e.g., Praxis Subject Assessments, CSET in California, TExES in Texas). Often required at both elementary and secondary levels.
     • Assessment of Professional Knowledge: Evaluates understanding of teaching principles, classroom strategies, and professional responsibilities (e.g., Praxis PLT, NES in Oregon).
   • Official Transcripts: Sealed official transcripts from all attended post-secondary institutions must be submitted for verification.

3. Student Teaching/Internship Requirement:

   • Supervised Classroom Experience: Completion of a supervised student teaching practicum or internship in an accredited school setting is essential. This involves taking on full or significant responsibility for a classroom under the guidance of a cooperating teacher and a university supervisor. Hours and duration are mandated (e.g., a full semester).

4. Professional Development & Continuing Education:

   • Ongoing Training: Maintaining a valid teaching license requires engaging in ongoing professional development (often called continuing education units or CEUs). The number of hours required varies by state/province but is a recurring obligation throughout a teaching career.

5. Additional Qualifications for Specialized Roles:

   • Special Education: Requires additional certification or endorsement in special education, often involving further coursework and exams (e.g., Praxis Special Education).
   • English as a Second Language (ESL): Requires an ESL endorsement or certification, involving specialized coursework in language acquisition theory, methodologies, and assessment.
   • Early Childhood Education: May require specific certifications or endorsements focused on preschool/kindergarten development.
   • Career and Technical Education (CTE): Often requires a combination of teaching coursework and significant documented work experience in the specific vocational field.

6. Essential Soft Skills & Attributes (Implicit in Professional Standards):

   • Strong Communication Skills: Verbal, written, and interpersonal abilities to interact effectively with students, parents, colleagues, and administrators.
   • Classroom Management Skills: Ability to establish a positive, safe, and productive learning environment.
   • Patience and Empathy: Understanding the diverse needs and challenges of students.
   • Adaptability and Flexibility: Ability to adjust teaching strategies to different learning styles and unexpected situations.
   • Cultural Competence: Valuing diversity and creating inclusive classrooms.
   • Content Knowledge Mastery: Deep understanding of the subject matter to be taught.
   • Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving: Ability to analyze student learning and adjust instruction accordingly.