How to Become a Social Studies Teacher
Becoming a teacher is one of the best ways to dive deep into a favorite subject matter, share a similar passion, and knowledge with a new generation. Social studies teachers have the opportunity to teach their students about a variety of subjects, from history and political science to geography and civics.
In every state, there are requirements that must be met in order to become certified to teach subjects like social studies. In New York, teachers must earn a bachelor’s degree from an accredited program, complete student teaching hours, and pass certification exams.
Earn a Bachelor’s Degree
A bachelor’s degree is the minimum requirement needed to qualify for a teaching certification. Those who intend to teach immediately after completing their undergraduate education should pursue a degree that prepares them to work in a classroom.
The Saint Rose Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Social Studies Adolescence Education is one such degree as it qualifies students to earn their initial teaching certification in New York State. This allows them to teach social studies in grades 7 through 12, with the option to add grades 5 and 6 with just a few more credits.
Majors for Social Studies Teacher Certification
At Saint Rose, future social studies teachers may choose to major in political science, history, or a combination program covering the two topics. After earning an undergraduate degree in one of those subjects, prospective teachers can go on to earn a master’s degree from the Thelma P. Lally School of Education.
Because teachers in New York must earn a master’s degree within the first five years of teaching, this track gives new teachers a head-start on meeting this requirement while ensuring they are prepared for the rigors of teaching.
Consider a Dual Master’s Program
Students who are certain of their path to educate children, a dual master’s program such as the Saint Rose Adolescence Special Education for Inclusive and Reflective Educators (ASPIRE) program may be ideal.
In the ASPIRE program, students can complete both a BA and Master of Science in Education (M.S.Ed.) in just five years. Graduates of the ASPIRE program earn certification to teach general education and special education courses in grades 7 through 12.
The program isn’t specific to social studies teacher qualification, but it could still be worth considering for those students who want to work successfully with students of all learning abilities.
Apply for State Certification
After completing either an undergraduate or graduate degree that meets state requirements, new social studies teachers must apply for NYS certification. Applicants who graduate from an undergraduate program are eligible for initial certification, which is valid for five years.
Take Required Social Studies Teacher Qualification Exams
According to the New York State Department of Education, Office of Teacher Initiatives, new social studies teachers in NYS must receive an institutional recommendation from an accredited teaching program, such as Saint Rose. Students who complete their programs in good standing are eligible for institutional recommendation.
The New York State Certification Exam – Educating All Students (EAS) is required for all new teachers, covers teaching theory, as well as practical skills and general education knowledge in the liberal arts and sciences.
Additionally, the Content Specialty Test (CST) – Social Studies or Safety Net Social Studies is a subject matter test required to become a social science teacher. The test consists of multiple-choice questions and an essay section.
Other requirements include completing the Dignity for All Students Act (DASA) workshop. The DASA training that new teachers must complete addresses the topics of bullying, harassment, and discrimination prevention.
All NY teachers are subject to background clearance, including a fingerprint scan and registration.
Upon completion and approval of all the above items, teachers are eligible to begin teaching. Those who have not yet earned a master’s degree at this point will be required to do so within five years of their initial certification, which will then make them eligible for a Professional Certificate.
Learn More About the Social Studies Education program at Saint Rose
For more information about teacher programs at Saint Rose and to learn how to become a social studies teacher, visit the college’s website.
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