How To Become a High School Teacher in North Carolina 2025

Teaching high school in North Carolina means more than covering lessons � it's about helping students prepare for life after graduation. Whether your path starts with a traditional education degree or you're considering a career switch, understanding the high school teacher educational requirements is key. If you're curious about what a high school teacher does day to day, it can help to explore the role more closely before getting started.

In this article, we'll unpack how to become a high school teacher and explain what qualifications you'll need. Below, you'll find everything from state certification details to salary expectations, financial aid options, and degree programs in North Carolina.

What Does a High School Teacher Do?

High school teacher responsibilities in North Carolina involve more than delivering instruction � they support student development, manage classroom environments, and help teens stay on track for graduation. Teachers plan daily lessons, use assessments to guide instruction, and adapt teaching methods to support different learning styles. They also mentor students, provide career and college guidance, and help create a safe and respectful school culture.

As a teacher in North Carolina, you will:

• create unit plans aligned with state standards
• use classroom technology and digital tools
• differentiate instruction for individual student needs
• develop and grade projects, tests, and presentations
• monitor attendance and classroom participation
• provide academic and personal support to students
• participate in faculty meetings and school committees
• engage in parent conferences and community outreach
• complete required licensure and training updates
• supervise extracurricular activities or school events

How To Become a High School Teacher in North Carolina

If you're interested in becoming a high school teacher in North Carolina, you'll need to meet the licensure standards set by the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction. You'll also need to explore subjects to teach in high school and choose your area of expertise.

Let's dive into the standard requirements and process.

Step 1: Earn a Bachelor's Degree

To teach high school in North Carolina, the first step is earning a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution. Your major should align with the subject you plan to teach, such as math, English, or biology. If you pursue a degree in education, your coursework will include both subject-specific content and pedagogical training.

If your bachelor's degree is in a non-education field, you'll need to complete additional requirements to qualify for licensure. North Carolina allows candidates to enroll in an alternative licensure program after earning a degree in their subject area, making it possible for career changers to transition into teaching.

Step 2: Complete an Approved Educator Preparation Program

Next, you must complete a North Carolina-approved educator preparation program. These programs are available through colleges, universities, or alternative pathways such as Teach For America or the Troops to Teachers initiative. Traditional programs often include clinical experience alongside coursework in classroom management, instructional methods, and educational psychology.

Alternative programs are designed for individuals who already have a degree and want to begin teaching while working toward licensure. These programs typically require a teaching position and allow candidates to earn certification while gaining hands-on experience in the classroom under supervision.

Step 3: Pass Required Licensure Exams

To qualify for licensure, you must pass the appropriate state exams. North Carolina uses the Praxis series for most subjects and grade levels. This includes tests in general pedagogy as well as content-specific knowledge based on the subject you plan to teach.

Your educator preparation program will help guide you through the testing process, including when to take the exams and how to prepare. Passing scores are required to demonstrate that you meet North Carolina's standards for effective teaching and subject-area mastery.

Step 4: Apply for a Professional Educator's License

After completing your degree, preparation program, and exams, you can apply for a Professional Educator's License through the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction. You'll need to create an account in the state's online licensure system and submit documents such as transcripts, test scores, and verification from your preparation program.

Once your application is reviewed and approved, you'll receive a teaching license valid for five years. This license can be renewed by completing continuing education requirements, which include professional development hours aligned with state guidelines.

Step 5: Maintain and Renew Your License

North Carolina teachers must renew their license every five years. To do so, you'll need to complete eight continuing education units (CEUs), which may include coursework, workshops, or district-led training sessions. The exact requirements may vary depending on your school district and licensure area.

Staying current with your renewal requirements ensures that you remain eligible to teach and that your instructional skills stay up to date. Many teachers use this opportunity to explore new strategies, earn endorsements, or work toward a graduate degree.

Education Degree Programs in North Carolina

We've selected a few of the best teaching degree programs in North Carolina. Compare the programs and tuition estimates below to find a program that fits your goals.

Fayetteville State University

Fayetteville State University (FSU) offers a secondary education program that focuses on affordability, access, and community-based teacher preparation. With some of the lowest tuition rates in the state, FSU provides a practical pathway for students who want to teach grades nine through 12 without taking on significant debt. The program is housed in the Department of Health, Physical, and Secondary Education and supports licensure in subjects such as English, mathematics, and social studies.

FSU's approach is centered on real-world readiness. Students participate in local school partnerships, gaining classroom experience through observations, tutoring, and student teaching. Faculty members work closely with each student to ensure they meet licensure requirements and feel confident stepping into their own classrooms. The university also supports career changers and transfer students through advising and flexible program structures.

• Estimated tuition cost: $1,000 (in-state); $5,000 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

Western Carolina University

At Western Carolina University (WCU), the secondary education program takes a partnership-based approach that connects students directly with local school systems. Rather than following a one-size-fits-all model, the program is structured to give students early and sustained experiences in real classrooms. From the first year onward, education majors work alongside mentor teachers in western North Carolina schools, learning how to plan lessons, manage classrooms, and support diverse student needs.

Students pursuing licensure in grades nine through 12 select a content area such as English, math, or social studies, then complete targeted coursework alongside professional education classes. What sets WCU apart is its emphasis on co-teaching models and site-based cohorts, which allow students to develop meaningful relationships with both faculty and school partners. The final semester includes full-time student teaching and preparation for licensure testing.

• Estimated tuition cost: $7,138.60 (in-state); $11,138.60 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

East Carolina University

East Carolina University (ECU) offers a Bachelor of Science (BS) in secondary education for students who want to teach grades nine through 12. The program allows students to major in specific subject areas such as English, history, or mathematics while completing the teacher education curriculum required for licensure. Coursework includes foundations of education, instructional technology, and methods for teaching diverse learners.

Students complete field experiences in local classrooms throughout the program, leading up to a full semester of student teaching during their final year. ECU provides support for passing state licensure exams and offers advising for students who want to add endorsements or explore graduate study after completing their BS.

• Estimated tuition cost: $7,438 (in-state); $23,715 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

Appalachian State University

Appalachian State University (App State) prepares future secondary teachers through a collaborative program between the College of Arts and Sciences and the Reich College of Education. Students major in a subject they intend to teach � such as English, mathematics, or history � while completing professional education coursework and clinical experiences required for North Carolina licensure. The program supports teaching in grades nine through 12 and aligns with state and national teaching standards.

Throughout their time at App State, students engage in fieldwork in local schools, beginning with early observations and culminating in a full semester of student teaching. Faculty advisors guide students through lesson planning, licensure testing, and job placement preparation. App State's long-standing commitment to public education and its location in a regional hub for teacher training make it a strong choice for aspiring educators.

• Estimated tuition cost: $8,379 (in-state); $25,541 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

How Much Does a High School Teacher Make in North Carolina?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average high school teacher salary in North Carolina is $53,920 per year. While this figure is below the national average, many teachers receive additional pay through district-level supplements or subject-area bonuses, especially in high-demand fields like math and science.

Salaries can also increase based on years of service, advanced degrees, and National Board Certification. New teachers may start with a lower base salary, but North Carolina's tiered pay system rewards longevity and professional growth. Most teaching positions also include benefits such as retirement contributions, health insurance, and paid holidays.

Job Outlook for High School Teachers in North Carolina

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects approximately 3,260 high school teacher openings per year in North Carolina from 2022 to 2032. These openings reflect a mix of new positions and replacements due to retirements or teachers leaving the profession. While overall growth is modest, steady demand exists across the state � especially in subjects like science, math, and special education.

Districts in rural and underserved areas often have the greatest need for qualified teachers. Candidates with strong licensure credentials and flexibility in subject area or location may find more opportunities and hiring incentives in high-need schools.

Financial Aid for High School Teacher Programs

If you're working toward becoming a high school teacher in North Carolina, several financial aid options can help make your degree more affordable. Students should begin by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine eligibility for federal grants, loans, and work-study. In addition, North Carolina offers several state-specific programs to support future educators:

• NC Teaching Fellows Program: This program offers up to $4,125 per semester for students committed to teaching in high-need subjects at North Carolina public schools.
• Forgivable Education Loans for Service (FELS): Provides forgivable loans to students who agree to teach in a critical shortage area in North Carolina after graduation.
• NC Education Lottery Scholarship: Offers need-based financial aid to eligible North Carolina residents attending public colleges or universities.
• TEACH Grant: Awards up to $4,000 per year to students who plan to teach a high-need subject in a low-income school for at least four years.
• Institutional scholarships: Many North Carolina colleges and universities offer scholarships for education majors; check with your school's financial aid office for specific opportunities.

FAQs About Becoming a High School Teacher in North Carolina

If you're planning to teach high school in North Carolina, these commonly asked questions can help you understand what to expect and how to move forward with confidence.

How Long Does It Take To Become a High School Teacher in North Carolina?

It typically takes four to five years to become a licensed high school teacher in North Carolina. This process involves earning a bachelor's degree, completing a teacher preparation program, and passing the required state exams.

What Is the Fastest Way To Become a Teacher?

The fastest way to become a teacher in North Carolina is through an alternative licensure program. These programs allow you to start teaching full-time while completing certification requirements on the job.

If you already have a bachelor's degree in a related subject, you can qualify for provisional licensure and begin working as a teacher within a few months. These routes are especially helpful for career changers looking to enter the classroom quickly.

Can You Get a Teacher Certification Without a Teaching Degree?

Yes, you can get certified without a traditional teaching degree if you already hold a bachelor's degree in another subject. North Carolina offers alternative licensure pathways that combine classroom teaching with professional coursework. These programs are designed to help individuals meet the same licensure standards as traditional education majors while gaining practical experience.

Can You Teach Full Time in NC Without a Degree?

No, you must have at least a bachelor's degree to teach full time in North Carolina public schools. However, you don't need a degree in education specifically. If your degree is in another field, you may still qualify for a lateral entry or residency licensure program, which lets you teach while completing additional training.

Which Teaching Degree Is Easiest To Get?

The easiest teaching degree to earn depends on your strengths and interests. Many students find degrees in early childhood or elementary education more straightforward due to the broader focus and fewer specialized subject requirements.

However, 'easy' can vary by person � some may prefer high school subjects like English or history over math or science. Regardless of the path, all teaching degrees in North Carolina require student teaching and licensure exams.

What Is the Best Age To Become a Teacher?

There's no perfect age to become a teacher � many educators start right after college, while others enter the profession later in life. Some people change careers in their 30s, 40s, or even 50s and find success through alternative certification routes. What matters most is meeting the licensure requirements and having a strong commitment to working with students.

Can I Become a Teacher in 6 Months?

In most cases, becoming a fully licensed teacher in six months isn't possible. However, if you already have a bachelor's degree, you may be eligible for a provisional or residency license that lets you begin teaching while completing your certification. These programs often include mentoring and allow you to earn full licensure over one to three years.

Explore Teaching Degrees in North Carolina

If you're ready to take the next step, browse accredited teaching degree programs at North Carolina colleges on Learn.org to find the right fit for your goals and licensure path.