Teachers in Texas can opt to become certified master’s teachers. The minimum requirement for becoming a teacher in Texas is a bachelor’s degree. If you have a master’s degree, it is definitely an added advantage. This article will guide you through the process of becoming a teacher with a master’s degree in Texas.

A master’s degree further demonstrates your competency in your content area and for this reason, aspiring teachers with a master’s degree are in huge demand. While the minimum requirement is a bachelor’s degree, it never hurts to have an advanced credential. In fact, it boosts your chances of getting hired and earning a higher remuneration.

So, if you have a master’s certification in technology, science, mathematics, or reading, it is a sign that you excel in your content area and can create an excellent learning environment for your students. Better still, a master certification increases your earning potential by up to 29%. It also makes you more effective in the classroom because of your thorough understanding of your content area.

How to become a teacher in Texas with a master’s degree

So, how can you become a teacher in Texas with a master’s degree? In order to be a master’s teacher, you need a master’s degree, a valid teacher certificate, and relevant teaching experience at a public school or an approved private school.

Eligibility Requirements

In Texas, if you want to acquire a master’s teaching certification, you need a valid teacher license. The first step to acquiring your teaching license is completing a bachelor’s program. If you are interested in teaching, while pursuing your graduation, you should choose to major in the content area you want to teach. This makes your teacher preparation a whole lot easier. Once, you have completed your bachelor’s program, you have to do a state-approved Education Preparation Program (EPP). You also have to pass the certification exams. In addition, there is a criminal background check.

After earning your teaching license, you should get a master’s degree and then finish EPP in the content area where you seek certification. You can find a list of all the Texas approved Education Preparation Programs on the TEA website. It is important to choose a state approved program; otherwise, your certificate will not be considered valid.

In order to obtain the master teacher certification, the applicants should have at least 2 years of teaching experience at a public school or an approved private school.

Each certification has certain specific requirements. You can find a quick overview of these requirements below.

Master Reading Teacher

Teachers can achieve this certification via two routes. They can get a Reading Specialist certificate. Those who do not have the certificate can also get certified as a master reading teacher, provided that they have 3 years of relevant teaching experience. That means they should have taught at a public school or an approved private school.

Master Technology Teacher

This certification too can be obtained via two routes. The first one is to get a Texas Technology Applications or Technology Education certificate. Applicants should also possess 3 years of teaching experience at a public school or an approved private school. If you do not have a certificate, you can still become a master technology teacher provided that you fulfill the basic requirements and pass an exam conducted by the Telecommunications Infrastructure Fund Board.

Master Science or Master Math Teacher

In order to become a master’s math or science teacher, you should have taught at a public or an approved private school for at least 3 years.

Certification Exams

Once you have completed your studies and gained enough work experience, you have to pass an exam in the area where you want to gain the certification. There are 8 certification examinations in Texas. You have five hours to take each exam.

For technology and reading certification, there is only one exam each. There are ninety multiple-choice questions in the master reading teacher examination. There is also an assignment in the form of a case study. The master technology teacher certificate allows you to teach from early childhood grades through grade 12. It consists of ninety multiple choice questions, an assignment, and 2 performance assessments.

For different grades, there are different certification examinations for math and science. These examinations are for teaching early childhood to 4th grade, 4th grade to 8th grade, and 8th grade to 12th grade. While the science exams contain one case study and 95 multiple choice questions, math exams have 90 questions (multiple choice) and one case study.

Completing an Education Preparation Program is essential to acquiring your teacher license in Texas. Candidates need to ensure that they are choosing an accredited school. There are also several online teaching certification programs. They also need to be properly accredited.

Why teach in Texas

Teaching is a recession proof sector. Also, Texas has a stable economy. Nearly 40% of the Texan population is below 18 years old. Consequently, there are lots of schools and tremendous demand for teachers in Texas. On average, a teacher in Texas can earn between $56,000 and $58,000. The minimum salary for first-year teachers is $33,660 and for teachers with 20 or more years of experience are $54,540. Depending upon your qualification and the experience you possess, you will be able to earn much more.

In addition to the attractive salary, Texas teachers get to enjoy healthcare and pension benefits. Texas also offers financial assistance to teachers and aspirants.  Those who want financial assistance to pursue a master’s degree can consider the Teach for Texas Loan Repayment Assistance Program.

There is currently a shortage of teachers in Texas, so obviously it is an opportunity for aspiring youngsters wanting to leave a legacy behind.

Teaching is a noble profession that is financially lucrative and emotionally rewarding. As a teacher, you are shaping the future of your nation. Needless to say, teachers enjoy tremendous respect. So, if you have a passion for teaching and expertise in a content area, now is the time to get certified as a teacher.

Disclaimer

This article does not contain legal, educational, or government advice. As regulations can change from time to time, readers are advised to check with their local education departments to receive up-to-date information.