If I major in Psycology can I still become a teacher with the degree?

Question

I want to be a teacher but also a child Psycologist. I want both can I get my degree and still have my options of both?

Answer 1

I actually did this - got a degree in psychology then went through alternative certification, and just as the person that answered above, you will need to obtain alternative certification if you just get a psychology or child psychology degree. Most alternative certification programs are very expensive, and there is very little possibility of getting a scholarship or being reimbursed by your employer (see below). The only other way I can think of is if you are still in college (or haven't started yet), double major in both psychology and something like Elementary Education. The Elementary Education major would get you toward certification while the psychology major would get you toward the child psychologist goal. However, you might also think about putting off the psychology stuff until a master's degree - if I'm not mistaken, you would have to have at least that, possibly even a doctorate, to be able to work as a child psychologist (something you may need to check into); and who knows, you may even change your mind and go with school counseling, which is definitely a master's program. Another alternative is Educational Psychology, this was actually my major until I transferred to another college that did not have this major - loved it, but still will not get you qualified to practice child psychology or certified to teach.

So really, I think best option is to get your bachelor's in some sort of education major - ideally Elementary, making sure the program will help you get certification. Use your electives to take some psychology, child psychology, and educational psychology coursework. Be sure to talk to your advisor about becoming a child psychologist as an ultimate goal. Get a teaching job and work on your master's in child psychology during evenings and summers - who knows, the school you work for may even pay for it, which will help you finacially.

Answer 2

You will still need to be certified as a teacher. Those requirements vary from state to state. Some allow you to get what is called an "alternative" license. These are given to people with degrees in other fields who have taken additional courses toward teaching. Most states require you to be mentored in such a position by a qualified teachers and you are considered probationary for a period of up to 3 years. You must also take and pass a teaching examination administered by the state. Check the department of education website in the state in which you live or in which you plan to teach for more specifics.

Answer 3

In Massachusetts, you can major in psycology but you need to take the test to become a certified teacher. I know I may only be 13 but my Science teacher did that. Two years ago, she wasn't a teacher, she was a therapist, she graduated with a BS in Psycology and Sociology. Good luck.

Answer 4

One thing you could do is go for a masters and on you bachelors major in education but focus most of your classes towards child psychology.

Answer 5

I dont really have an answer however I do have that same exact question. I want to teach but perhaps work as a child psycologist during the summer or some thing like that as well... these answers helped me out too! Thanks.

Answer 6

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