Mathematics Teachers

Certification or Licensing

As a public school teacher, you must be licensed under regulations established by the department of education of the state in which you are teaching. Although requirements vary by state, most require a bachelor's degree and the completion of a state-approved education program. Certain courses and education credits must be fulfilled as part of these training programs, and some states may also require you to maintain a minimum grade point average or even obtain a master's degree in education before teaching. Technology training is also a part of many states' licensing requirements. Not all states require licensure for teachers in private or parochial schools.

When you have received your teaching degree, you may request that a transcript of your college record be sent to the licensure section of the state department of education. If you have met licensure requirements, you will receive a certificate and thus be eligible to teach in the public schools of the state. In some states, you may have to take a competency exam to prove your basic skills before teaching. If you move to another state, you will have to resubmit college transcripts as well as comply with any other regulations in the new state to be able to teach there.

Because of a current teacher shortage, many states offer alternative licensing programs for individuals with bachelor's degrees in a subject (such as math) who have not taken the required number of education courses. Individuals may begin teaching immediately under the supervision of a licensed teacher while taking education courses part time. After working for one or two years and taking the required courses, they can earn a license.

The National Board for Professional Teaching Standards offers voluntary board certification for mathematics educators who teach students who are between the ages of 11 and 18. Applicants must have a bachelor's degree, have three years of experience as a teacher, and possess a valid state teaching license. All states recognize national certification and may grant higher salaries and promotions to those who obtain it.