Becoming an Elementary Teacher While Majoring in Accounting

Many individuals wonder if it is possible to pursue a career in elementary education while studying a non-traditional major such as accounting. The answer is yes—you can indeed become an elementary teacher while majoring in accounting, but it does require some careful planning and additional steps. This article explores the process and considerations involved in achieving this dual goal.

Education Requirements and Steps

Unlike traditional education majors, you will need to take additional courses or pursue specific programs to meet the requirements for teaching elementary school. Here are the key steps you should consider:

Education Requirements

Most states require elementary teachers to have a degree in education or a related field along with a teaching credential. This means that while you can major in accounting, you will need to supplement your academic background with relevant coursework or a teacher preparation program.

Teacher Preparation Program

Look for a teacher preparation program or a post-baccalaureate program that allows you to earn your teaching certification after completing your accounting degree. Such programs typically include coursework in pedagogy and supervised teaching experience, such as student teaching.

Certification Exams

Depending on your state, you will likely need to pass certification exams that assess your knowledge of teaching methods and subject matter. These exams are designed to ensure that you have the necessary qualifications to teach effectively.

Alternative Certification

Some states offer alternative certification routes for individuals who hold a degree in a non-education field. If you believe this might be a viable option for you, ensure you research the requirements and procedures in your state.

State-Specific Requirements

In many states, a liberal arts major such as psychology or English is recommended for aspiring teachers due to the comprehensive knowledge required. However, each state has its own specific requirements, which you can learn about by visiting their official websites. If you like accounting, does that mean you like math? Math is another potential major that may align well with your interests.

Overview of Requirements

In my state, a liberal arts major like psychology or English is often paired with a thirty-credit teacher education program that includes student teaching. This is just one example, and each state has its unique set of requirements. Thus, it is crucial to check the specific certification requirements for your state.

Training and Preparation

Becoming a teacher is a highly rewarding but also challenging career. Besides passing the necessary exams, you should consider the following aspects of teaching:

Content Knowledge

While knowing how to do math yourself is essential, it is different from the ability to break it down and explain it in a way that young children find interesting, understand, and remember. Effective teaching requires a deep understanding of how to convey complex concepts in an accessible manner.

Classroom Management

Teachers must also know how to manage a classroom of 30 students effectively, handle behavior issues, cater to students with diverse learning needs, and teach English as a second language. Additionally, they should be skilled at teaching students to regulate their emotions, deal with interpersonal conflicts in a healthy manner, and understand students who have experienced trauma.

Conclusion

In summary, while majoring in accounting, you can pursue a path to become an elementary teacher by supplementing your education with the necessary teaching credentials and experiences. Through careful planning and additional coursework, you can prepare yourself to be a successful and effective teacher in the elementary school environment.