You don’t have to wait until college to start your path to teaching
Take college classes early
Get hands-on experience
Save time and money
Take College Classes in High School
Taking college-level classes in high school—sometimes called concurrent enrollment or dual credit—lets you knock out general education or even intro teaching courses early.
This option might be a great fit for you if:
- You’re already thinking about college and want a head start.
- You’re curious about teaching or education as a career.
- You’re looking for ways to save on tuition.
- You want to build confidence in your college readiness.
How to Go from High School Student to Certified Teacher
Here’s what your path to the classroom could look like:
- Talk to your counselor about dual credit or concurrent enrollment options. (Remember, that just means you're taking college classes in high school.)
- Take a college class online or in-person, and it might count for both high school and college credit.
- Join a teaching club or program at your school (or start one!).
- Graduate high school with college credit already completed.
- Apply to a teaching program at a college or university.
- Finish your degree and get your teaching certificate.
- Become a teacher!
Did you know?
Research shows that students who earn college credit in high school are more likely to graduate from college and finish faster. (1)
Get Classroom Experience Now
You don’t need a degree to start exploring what it’s like to be a teacher. Many high schools offer programs that give you real classroom experience and help you build teaching skills. Look for opportunities like:
- Future Teachers of America
- Educators Rising
- Teacher cadet programs
- Peer tutoring or mentoring programs
No program at your school? Ask a teacher, counselor or club advisor. You can still get involved by volunteering to tutor younger students, helping out in classrooms or supporting after-school programs.
Every bit of experience counts. It shows colleges (and future employers) that you’re serious about becoming a teacher.
Common Questions about Starting Early
Need help getting started?
TEACH offers free 1-on-1 and group advising to help you find the right pathway and teaching programs based on your background.
Sign up for access to advising, financial aid, events and more.
References
1. Dual Enrollment. Community College Research Center, Columbia University. https://ccrc.tc.columbia.edu/research/high-school-to-college.html
