Why should I learn to teach if I am not sure that I want to be a teacher?

There are always job openings for well qualified science and math teachers, in good economic times and bad. Teaching skills are needed in many professions, and college graduates are often hired on the basis of their communication skills. Medical professionals often have to teach their patients how to manage their conditions. Lawyers teach their clients and the juries that hear their cases. Managers teach their employees new procedures. To become a teacher, you must learn a little about learning. By participating in this program, you will become a better learner, and you will find it easier to excel in your classes.

Do I have to teach if I complete the program?

No. There is no obligation to teach.

If I complete the program where can I teach?

You will have a license that allows you to teach anywhere in the state of Tennessee. You are not required to teach in any particular district. Additionally Tennessee has reciprocity agreements with many states allowing you to transfer your license (though some states may require additional work or testing).

Will I receive some guidance in completing this program?

You will have two skilled advisors, one from your major department and one from Tigers Teach. These advisors will make sure that you complete courses required for both your major and teacher certification.

How do I sign up?

This program recruits math and science majors who want to learn more about teaching. The earlier in your college career you start Tigers Teach the easier it is to fit our courses around your major without slowing your graduation. Talk with your advisor and discuss registering for the STEP 1 course. We will refund you the cost of 1 hour of tuition provided that you complete the course with a C or better.

What majors would qualify me for Tigers Teach?

The target audience for the program is students who want to earn a Bachelor's degree in physics, chemistry, biology, earth science or mathematics. Students who want to earn Bachelor's degrees in Computer Science or one of the engineering fields are also welcome but must qualify for one of the available certifications, usually in mathematics or physics. Students who plan to do substantial coursework in one of these fields may also be considered if they can earn certification in one of the science fields or mathematics.

I think I want to teach at or below the sixth grade level. How do I obtain that certification?

You will need to pursue certification through the College of Education, Health and Human Sciences. They offer a grades K-6 certification program with the option of dual certification in Special Education. For more information, visit the website of the Elementary Education program in the Department of Instruction and Curriculum Leadership: http://www.memphis.edu/icl/elem/.

I think I want to teach in the middle grades (4-8). How do I obtain that certification?

The Tigers Teach program currently offers only the secondary certification (grades 7-12). If you think that you would like to be licensed to teach at the middle school level, you will need to pursue certification through the College of Education, Health and Human Sciences. For more information, visit the website of the Middle School Education program in the Department of Instruction and Curriculum Leadership: http://www.memphis.edu/icl/msed/.