How long does it take to become an elementary school teacher?

How long does it take to become an elementary school teacher if I'm transferring?

• I have been going to a community college for two years now full time every semester, right out of high school. Sadly, I fell behind because of my struggle with math, so now I have to go for another two years to finish the required math before I qualify to transfer to a 4 year college. I was curious how long it will take me to become an elementary school teacher after I have transferred to a 4 year college? (I am sure that I will do well in all the classes, so I am basing this question on the thought that I will pass every class I am in once I have transferred.) I live in Southern California and plan on transferring to Cal State Fullerton. I also plan on going full time each semester and taking at least 6 units every summer, as I usually do.

• Answer:

  Once you have earned your Associates and transfer to a 4-year University it usually takes another 2 years to complete your Bachelors. Of course, that is if you go full time. Speak to someone in the Teacher Education Dept at Cal State Fullerton. They can give you a list of the classes you need to take each semester in order to graduate on time. The Education Dept. at your school will have a class track for you to follow. They tell you what you need to take in order to fulfill your requirements. Be careful with your grades. Most programs will require you to keep a B-(3.0) average in order to pass a class or stay in the program. So, take this very seriously! You will also have to complete your student teaching. That is usually done your last year and counts as a course. You will have to take the required testing to become certified in your state to teach; however, most Education programs help you through that your junior and senior year of college. Your program will explain all of that to you. If you stay on the track that you stated above, you should only have 2 more years of schooling to earn your Bachelors in Elem. Ed. Then you can start your job search! Teaching is an extremely rewarding profession. Good luck!