How To Become A History Teacher

Knowing how to become a history teacher involves asking yourself a few questions. Can't get enough of Catherine the great stories?  Think Napoleon got the short end of the stick? Curious when you learn that Lysol really did encourage American women to douche with their product from the 1920's until the birth control pill was mass marketed?  Ever wonder if Attila the Hun really died during sex with his mistress? Whatever aspect of history grabs your attention, learning how to become a history teacher means taking the first steps toward your new career.

1. Decide whether to teach in a public or private school. Each options carries different requirements.
2. Private school requires different degrees. Teaching history at a private school typically requires a Bachelor's degree in History and often a Master's degree in History as well.  Teacher certification isn't required for most private schools, but it depends on the school and the state.
3. Earn a different set of degrees for public school. Most public school history teachers have Bachelor's degrees in Education, with a social studies concentration.  History teachers in public schools are expected to teach U.S. history, world history, government, and sometimes geography, economics, psychology or sociology as well.  The Bachelor's in education with a social studies concentration prepares you for these different classes. 
4. Plan to earn a Master's degree in Education or History regardless of which school set you choose.  After a few years on the job you may be required to earn a Master's degree on your own time (and often on your own dime).  Public school history teachers can choose between earning a Master's in Education or one in History; the choice is yours.
5. Observe a history class in action.  You may discover you hate it as you research how to become a history teacher, and then you can just read good history books while majoring in a different field.  If you discover you love it, keep reading.

To get started, contact a local university or college to meet with an academic adviser who is knowledgeable about social studies concentrations or undergraduate history degree paths for students hoping to learn how to become a history teacher.  And the rest, as they say...is history!