Okay, so I graduated last year with a Bachelor’s degree in History. I really enjoyed my studies, but I’m starting to think a career in teaching is more aligned with what I want to do. I’m drawn to working with kids and feel like I could really make a difference as a history teacher, specifically, maybe at the high school level.
But, I don’t have an education degree. All my friends who are teachers went to school specifically for education. So, is it even possible for me to become a teacher now? What are my options? Are there alternative routes to certification, especially in History? Would I need to go back to school and get a whole new degree? I’m in California, if that makes a difference. Any advice or information would be greatly appreciated!
Answer
Yes, you can become a teacher even if you have a bachelor’s degree in a field other than education. In Türkiye, this is usually possible by taking pedagogical formation training or, in some cases, by completing a non-thesis master’s degree. Here are the details:
- Pedagogical Formation Training:
What is it? Pedagogical formation training is a training program where graduates of a bachelor’s program but have not received teacher training acquire the pedagogical knowledge and skills necessary to practice teaching. This training includes courses in areas such as teaching methods, classroom management, measurement and evaluation, educational psychology, and special education.
Who is Eligible? Generally, those with a bachelor’s degree in a field determined and announced by the Ministry of National Education (MEB) are eligible to apply. The departments that can offer pedagogical formation training may change annually based on need. It is important to follow the announcements.
Where to Get It? Pedagogical formation training is provided by university faculties of education. In some cases, other faculties may also provide pedagogical formation training with the permission of the Ministry of National Education.
Duration: Formation training typically lasts one or two semesters. This period can vary depending on the university and the program.
Application Process: Application requirements and timelines should be followed on the websites of relevant university departments or through announcements from the Ministry of National Education. Documents such as transcripts, diplomas, and ID cards are generally required for application.
Fee: Pedagogical formation training is subject to a fee. The fee varies from university to university.
- Non-thesis Master’s Degree (Pedagogy Emphasis):
Some universities offer non-thesis master’s programs with a focus on pedagogy. Similar to formation training, these programs aim to provide the pedagogical knowledge necessary for teaching. Those who successfully complete this program may also be eligible to teach. However, it should be noted that this option may not be available for every field, and it is important to check with the Ministry of National Education beforehand whether it is accepted.
- Teaching in Private Schools:
Some private schools, particularly when there are teacher vacancies in certain fields, may employ experts in their fields who lack pedagogical training. However, this is usually temporary and requires approval from the Ministry of National Education. Furthermore, private schools’ policies on this matter may vary.
- Appointment Criteria of the Ministry of National Education:
To be appointed as a teacher, it is necessary to meet the appointment criteria set by the Ministry of National Education. These criteria may include passing the KPSS exam, possessing pedagogical training, completing a non-thesis master’s degree (in a relevant field), and other requirements.
Important Notes:
The legislation and regulations of the Ministry of National Education (MEB) may change from time to time. Therefore, it is important to keep up-to-date on the official website of the MEB and the education faculties of relevant universities.
Teacher appointments are made based on needs on a field-by-field basis. Therefore, it is important to consider the status and quotas of your department of graduation regarding teacher appointments.
The list of departments that offer formal training or non-thesis master’s degrees is determined and announced annually by the Ministry of National Education. Following this list will help you make the right decisions.
