Can You Become a High School History Teacher With a Specialized Degree?
Indeed, you can become a high school history teacher with a specialized history degree, such as Egyptology or Assyriology, as well as a teaching certificate. This article explores the requirements and considerations for those who wish to teach high school social studies with a focus on specialized historical fields.
Requirements for Teaching in Texas
My graduate degree is in European and Eurasian Area Studies, and I also hold an undergraduate degree in Social Sciences. In Texas, to be considered a “well-qualified” teacher, you need to have 12 classes in your subject area, which, for Social Studies, would include World History, World Geography, World Culture, American History to 1877, and Texas History. I have taught a range of these subjects, ensuring a comprehensive and broad understanding of the material.
State-Specific Requirements
It's important to note that the specific requirements for becoming a social studies teacher can vary by state. For example, in Maryland, you need a major or at least 30 academic credits in social studies, including two courses each in history, geography, economics, and political science. These requirements can make it challenging to specialize in niche fields like Egyptology or Assyriology.
However, once you become a social studies teacher, the school can assign you to teach any social studies class. Since most high schools do not offer entire courses in Egypt and Assyria, it is advisable to take at least some U.S. history and general world cultures/world history courses. This ensures you are well-prepared to teach a variety of social studies subjects.
The Role of Specialized Degrees
Having a specialized degree in a field like Egyptology or Assyriology can be an incredible asset. However, you will need to be prepared to do additional research and study to teach other areas effectively. Without this preparation, you may find it difficult to teach these specialized subjects and likely won't be able to keep the job.
Teaching Credentials and Standards
The crucial component in the United States for teaching is obtaining a teaching certificate. While you can potentially become a history teacher with a specialized degree, you will need to be able to teach general history classes, either world or national, and likely civics as well. This requirement can make it challenging to focus solely on your specialized area without broadening your teaching scope.
In many school districts, there are localized standards for teaching and hiring. Therefore, it is essential to understand the specific requirements of the district in which you wish to teach. This may include a combination of coursework, experience, and potentially a background in related social sciences to meet the diverse needs of the classroom.
Limited Opportunities for Specialization
It is possible, but it is rare. In most cases, social studies teachers are required to teach a broader range of subjects. As a result, you may find it challenging to teach history outside of your specialty area effectively. Sponsorship of a student club related to your specialty area might be an option, but it might not be sufficient for a career in teaching.
Career Flexibility for Coaches
Even coaches in high schools are required to teach some classes in the United States. Social Studies is so widely defined that almost every college graduate minor in Social Studies. Due to this, most coaches are assigned to teach a basic history course, which they may teach poorly. This requirement can make teaching a more challenging and less specialized career path for those with a niche historical degree.
Overall, while it is possible to become a high school history teacher with a specialized degree, you will need to be prepared to adapt and teach a broader range of subjects. This approach will ensure you meet the diverse needs of your students and the educational standards set by your state or district.