Job Outlook Good for Science Teachers?

Answer 1

For those with an interest in science and a desire to teach others, there are many opportunities for teaching science. Jobs are available on levels from pre-kindergarten to college Which area you are qualified for depends on your formal training and your interests.

Elementary/Middle School - By grade five elementary school students start to receive specialized instruction in science. Emphasis is on the basic concepts and everyday science. Middle school will require advanced instruction including Biology, earth science and basic human anatomy.

High School - Science at the high school level is highly specialized and includes advanced courses in biology, chemistry and the Earth Sciences. The high school science teacher may be for responsible for maintaining lab equipment and ordering supplies.

College/University A teaching certificate is not required for teaching at the college level. However, there is less job security and some teaching positions may be less than full time. The average salary is approximately $68,000 with some salaries as high as $100,000 or more. Lower level salaries average $40,000.

The entry level for college teaching is Instructor. Duties are teaching undergraduate classes, correcting papers and conducting lab experiments. A Masters degree is usually required for Instructors. Associate and Assistant professors may lecture but also advise students, perform some administrative functions and help to shape course content and requirements. Professors are required to have a Masters degree, preferably with a Doctorate in progress. Full professors are usually required to possess an earned doctorate degree. Full professors command the highest salaries and are expected to be involved in research, writing, speaking, lecturing and administration.

Earnings for Science Teachers

The demand for science teachers is good at all levels. Salaries vary by locale and level taught. For elementary and high school teachers, average salaries are from $40,000 to $50,000 with higher salaries at the high school level. In some school districts like New York City, teachers may earn $100,000 or more depending on experience and area of specialization.

Generally, a bachelors degree is required for teaching in public schools. States may also require certification or passing a state teacher's exam. Local districts may add other requirements like a masters degree or teaching experience.