Health teachers instruct students on healthy life practices and physical education in schools and other community settings. Continue reading to learn about the education and training you'll need to become a health teacher. You'll also find out more information on professional certification and licensing.
What Degree Do I Need to Become a Health Teacher?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), you'll probably need at least a bachelor's degree in health education or health science to become a health teacher (www.bls.gov). These degree programs may also be available as physical education or kinesiology majors. You'll also need to complete an approved teacher training program and supervised teaching internship.
<table border="1"><tr><td><b>Education</b></td><td> Bachelor's degree in related field, internship</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Online Availability</b></td><td> Limited program availability, continuing education options available</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Other Requirements</b></td><td> Teaching license</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Certification</b></td><td> Professional teaching certification optional</td></tr>
<tr><td><b> Median Salary (2020)</b> </td><td> $48,140 (<i>for all health educators and community health workers</i>) </td></tr>
<tr><td><b> Job Outlook (2019-2029)</b></td><td>13% growth (<i>for all health educators and community health workers</i>) </td></tr>
</table><p><i>Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics</i>
</p><h3 id="section---WhatAboutALicense">What About a License?</h3><p>Upon earning your bachelor's degree and completing a teacher training program, you'll need to apply for licensure through your state board of education. In most states, this requires passing a written exam. The Praxis examination is used by many states; although, testing requirements may vary. You may have to take one exam testing your knowledge of teaching techniques and another testing your knowledge of health science.
</p><h3 id="section---DoINeedProfessionalCertification">Do I Need Professional Certification?</h3><p>Professional certification through organizations such as the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS) is not required for employment. Although, according to the NBPTS, certification may improve your employment options by allowing you to use your teaching license in other states (<i>www.nbpts.org</i>). Certification may also help you advance in the field.
</p><p>Applicants wishing to be certified by the NBPTS in the area of health education for early adolescence through young adulthood must submit a portfolio of student work and video-recorded class sessions. You must also pass a written exam.
</p><h3 id="section---CanICompleteMyTrainingOnline">Can I Complete My Training Online?</h3><p>Bachelor's degree programs require you to complete field experiences and student teaching internships, so online programs are generally not offered. Certificate programs may be offered through distance learning if you are already a licensed teacher interested in also teaching health, but these are rare.
</p><p>You'll need a computer with Internet access and an e-mail address to participate in distance learning. Your courses are typically delivered through an Internet-based course management system, such as Blackboard.</p>
