Teaching is a profession that requires passion and dedication. It is rarely mentioned as a top choice when it comes to finding a high-flying career with substantial remuneration, but job satisfaction in the teaching profession is rooted in its transformative nature and the human interaction that changes lives. As educators, mentors, coaches, role models and many more, teachers are skilled across many disciplines. The academic backgrounds are as varied as the roles that teachers assume in the educational system. The top teaching positions listed here have to do with expected growth in this particular specialization.
1. Law School Professors
Law school professors are among the highest paid in the teaching profession, because of the stringent requirements for holding such a position, according to the Houston Chronicle. The career path starts with completing a bachelor’s degree, qualifying for admission through the Law School Admission Test then fulfilling the requirements to obtain a juris doctor from an American Bar Association-approved school. Passing the state bar examination is the final requirement for licensing. The typical law professor would have been in practice for a number of years with post-graduate degrees and extensive experience and credentials in their field of specialization.
2. Professors of Various Medical Specializations
Similar to law school professors, those who make it as teachers in specialized areas of medicine are highly regarded and well compensated. They would have a solid resume that would include a medical degree and many years of practice. Many of these professors have a long list of credentials, including a doctorate in their field of specialization.
3. Post-secondary School Teachers
Teaching positions in colleges and universities are sought after by those who would thrive in the academic environment. A master’s degree is usually the minimum requirement for these teaching positions although many get their foot in the door by taking teaching assistant positions while completing their post-graduate degrees. The most popular fields include engineering, math and economics. Teachers may be hired as adjunct, limited term based on contract or tenure track. Those who get tenure track may eventually qualify for a permanent position, depending on whether they meet certain requirements that may include feedback from students, publication of studies in academic journals and community involvement. Tenured professors enjoy job stability as permanent members of the faculty.
4. High School Teacher
The teenage years are considered some of the most difficult periods for young adults. These are some of the most impressionable years that play a significant part in the future direction of the students’ life. High school teachers are instrumental in guiding students through this developmental period in terms of academic instruction and personal mentoring. A master’s degree may not always be required, but proficiency in the subject matter and a teaching license are job requirements. Proof of proficiency may include years of experience as a teacher on the subject matter and relevant advance credentials. High school teachers may not be as well compensated as college professors, but the positions are stable and will continue to be so in the future, according to the US News and World Report.
5. Special Education Teachers
Special education teachers are trained to teach children with special needs, including those with learning and physical disabilities. They are proficient in all the core subjects and are trained to adapt the general education curriculum specifically for the population that they serve. This position is challenging and stressful, but the payoff in terms of a productive relationship with a special needs child is priceless. Special education teachers have to meet certification requirements including a Bachelor’s in Education or Special Education.
Related Resource: 50 Most Affordable Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction Online 2015
Teaching is a vocation for many of the 3.5 million teachers in public and private schools. Teachers play crucial and influential roles in the lives of the students they encounter, and they have rewarding lives because of that.
