To work as a home economics teacher, you must have a bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited college, university, or professional development program.
A bachelor’s degree in education, family and consumer sciences, or a related field is possible. The great majority of bachelor’s degree programs last four years.
Some home economics teachers pursue a master’s degree in education or family and consumer sciences after earning a bachelor’s degree.
A master’s program typically lasts two years, and graduates earn more money as teachers.
WHO IS A HOME ECONOMICS TEACHER?
A home economics teacher is a middle and high school course instructor who also serves as a career and technical educator (CTE).
They are also known as vocational educators. Many aspects of household management may be discussed as a home economics instructor.
You teach subjects such as nutrition, interpersonal interactions, resource management, parenting, cooking, and consumer economics.
Like any other high school teacher, you organize the curriculum, deliver lectures, assign classroom projects, and instruct students.
You also track, monitor, and evaluate students’ progress. You may need to modify class plans on occasion to meet the needs of the students. Speaking with the student’s parents may be beneficial in some cases.
WHAT ARE THE ACADEMIC REQUIREMENTS FOR BECOMING A HOME ECONOMICS TEACHER?
A bachelor’s degree is required to teach in public schools. Several schools and universities offer degree programs in family and consumer science education to prepare you to teach home economics.
This curriculum teaches you about family and consumer sciences while also providing you with the necessary teaching skills.
You can also join a professional organization like the National Association of Teacher Educators for Family and Consumer Sciences, which publishes a magazine about home economics education, funds conferences, and provides networking opportunities, as part of your continuing education needs.
Even elective subjects, such as home economics, necessitate state teaching certifications in order to be taught in a public school. Several universities provide information on all state licensure requirements.
Consider adding optional certification to your teaching credentials. The National Board for Professional Teaching Standards offers certification in Career and Technical Education (NBPTS).
In this 10-year certification exam, you will be tested on the subspecialty you wish to teach. After selecting family and consumer sciences, you are tested on your knowledge of home decision-making, nutrition, family dynamics, and the textile industry.
CERTIFICATION AND LICENSING FOR HOME ECONOMICS TEACHERS
Although state-by-state requirements vary, in most cases you will need to pass tests in fundamental abilities such as reading and writing, as well as demonstrate knowledge of the subjects you will be teaching.
In some states, you may be required to complete technological training or a period of supervised practice teaching.
In addition to a license, Home Economics Teachers can apply for voluntary national certification from the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards.
To obtain national certification, you must pass both a written exam and a teaching exam. A portfolio of your academic work must also be submitted for evaluation.
A national certification may result in higher pay and the ability to transfer your teaching license from one state to another.
WHAT CLASSES COULD I TEACH?
As a home economics teacher, you would instruct students on a variety of home management topics. You could teach classes in finance, family relations, childcare, sewing, and cuisine, for example.
The specific job responsibilities of any teacher include facilitating class discussions, developing curricula, creating course materials, giving lectures, assigning homework, and grading student work.
As a postsecondary educator, you may also conduct research, hold office hours, and provide student counseling.
WHAT OTHER JOBS ARE RELATED TO HOME ECONOMICS STUDIES?
Home economics, a vocational curriculum, is a professional option for elementary, middle, and high school teachers.
A bachelor’s degree in education, as well as a license and a specialty area, are required for these positions.
Counseling and instructional coordination are two other options. Both jobs necessitate a master’s degree as well as collaboration with teachers and students to prepare students for the workforce.