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Prerequisites

Teachers come from any number of academic disciplines and backgrounds, so regardless of your major, you can always become an instructor. Your best bet is to find the subject you like the most and take the most challenging courses available, particularly if you plan on teaching at the middle school level or above. A great deal of the reputation you build with your colleagues and students hinges on both academic expertise and enthusiasm.

Even if your college offers a major in education, consider doubling or at least taking a minor in another academic subject. You�ll need to sell yourself as a specialist to prospective employers.

All prospective teachers should consider classes in public speaking, humanities and foreign languages. Even if you�re a math or science instructor, oral and written communication skills are crucial for every facet of the job. Linguistics, adolescent development and psychology are also wise choices of study, especially for those who wish to pursue the elementary and special education tracks.

If you want to consider taking on an administrative role in the future, look into courses in statistics, economics and finance.

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