Also what qualifications do you need. I have a Bachelours in Biochemistry (UK) and am doing a PhD in biomedical science. I realised I don;t like what I am doing and would like to be a teacher. I am not sure about the system in USA. If I decided to quit my PhD what are the chances of becoming a teacher when I already have a degree in Biochemistry. I am moving there soon (Chicago) so that's why I am asking. Would very much appreciate your help and advice.
Teaching - 2 Answers
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1 :
Because of the crazy way America funds education, salaries vary from school district to school district within states and from state to state. So there's no hard and fast rule about salaries. If you want to teach, you'll need to look at the Illinois Department of Education to find out their requirements for teacher certification in your area. You have to obtain certification/licensure to be a teacher (you should be able to find it on the state website). There's a fee involved for the license, but I'm not sure what it is in Illinois. You will also have to undergo a background check and be fingerprinted--there are fees involved in this process as well. Once you obtain your license, you can begin the application process to school districts within the areas in which you will live once you move here. It can be a time consuming and frustrating process, but it is really worth it! I love being a teacher despite the many headaches involved. Good luck!
2 :
You would need to get your teacher certification. This would involve taking education classes and student teaching, and it would likely take at least a full year. Each state has its own specific requirements. Here are the ones for Illinois: http://www.isbe.state.il.us/certification/html/prospective.htm Once you finished your certification, you would likely be an attractive candidate since you have your advanced degree, but they probably wouldn't hire you until you get certified. Teachers in the US normally have time off for about 2 1/2 months in summer, a few days around Thanksgiving, about a week and a half at Christmas, often a week near Easter, and a few other days scattered throughout the year. I also recommend that you consider teaching at a community college. You would not have to get teacher certification for it, so you might be able to find a job right away.
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