Explore Social Studies Teacher Schools (2024)

Looking to start your journey as a Social Studies Teacher? Finding the right education is key. Here's a curated list of schools offering quality Social Studies Teacher programs:

  • We've identified top institutions known for excellent Social Studies Teacher education.
  • Options include both local schools and nationally recognized programs.
  • Each listing highlights relevant degree programs for aspiring Social Studies Teacher professionals.
  • You'll also find information on related career paths in the field.

Browse through these options to find a program that aligns with your career goals in the Social Studies Teacher industry.

Top Social Studies Teacher Schools (2024)

View our ranking methodology here
#1Los Angeles County

East Los Angeles College

Monterey Park, CA

In-State Tuition:$1,196
Out-of-State Tuition:$9,828
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:30%
Total Enrollment:27,855
#2Maricopa County

Grand Canyon University

Phoenix, AZ

In-State Tuition:$16,407
Out-of-State Tuition:$16,407
Admission Rate:78%
Graduation Rate:45%
Total Enrollment:101,816
#3Placer County

Sierra College

Rocklin, CA

In-State Tuition:$1,104
Out-of-State Tuition:$8,496
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:34%
Total Enrollment:15,766
#4Alameda County

Ohlone College

Fremont, CA

In-State Tuition:$1,104
Out-of-State Tuition:$7,080
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:55%
Total Enrollment:8,358
#5Los Angeles County

College of the Canyons

Santa Clarita, CA

In-State Tuition:$1,104
Out-of-State Tuition:$9,264
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:43%
Total Enrollment:18,075
#6San Diego County

Palomar College

San Marcos, CA

In-State Tuition:$1,288
Out-of-State Tuition:$10,584
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:31%
Total Enrollment:17,655

Social Studies Teacher Required Education (2024)

  • Minimum Education Requirements:

    • You'll need to earn at least a bachelor's degree in social studies education or a related field. This undergraduate program typically includes foundational coursework in history, geography, government, and economics, as well as education courses that focus on pedagogy and instructional strategies.

  • Advanced Education Options:

    • Many educators pursue a master’s degree in education, curriculum development, or a specific area of social studies to enhance their teaching skills and deepen their subject knowledge.
    • You may also consider obtaining a master's in educational leadership if you aspire to take on administrative roles within schools or districts.
    • Some institutions offer doctoral programs in education or social studies, which can prepare you for leadership positions in education, curriculum development, or academic research.

  • Alternative Pathways:

    • Additionally, if you have a degree in a different subject but want to teach social studies, you might explore alternative certification programs. These programs often include a combination of coursework and supervised teaching experiences tailored to comply with state requirements.

  • State Licensure:

    • Regardless of the level of education you choose, be aware that you will need to meet state licensure requirements to teach in public schools. This typically involves passing specific exams related to social studies content and teaching knowledge.

Social Studies Teacher Professional Certifications & Licenses (2024)

To become a Social Studies Teacher, you need to obtain specific certifications and licenses that are generally required by states. These qualifications ensure you meet the educational standards necessary to teach effectively. Here is a list of the most common certifications and licenses:

  • Bachelor's Degree in Education or Related Field: You must complete a bachelor's degree program that includes coursework in social studies, history, government, and education.

  • Teacher Preparation Program: You should complete a state-approved teacher preparation program, which often includes student teaching experiences.

  • State Teaching License: After completing your degree and teacher preparation program, you will need to apply for a teaching license in the state where you wish to teach. This may require passing specific state examinations, such as:

    • Praxis Series: Many states require candidates to pass specific Praxis exams in social studies or related subjects.

    • State-Specific Assessments: Some states have their own assessments that you must pass to demonstrate your competency in teaching social studies.

  • National Board Certification: While not mandatory, earning National Board Certification can enhance your credentials. The National Board for Professional Teaching Standards offers certification in Early Adolescence Social Studies and other related areas.

  • Continuing Education Requirements: Once you obtain your teaching license, you must adhere to your state’s continuing education requirements to maintain your certification, which may involve taking additional courses or attending professional development workshops.

Make sure to consult the specific requirements for the state in which you plan to teach, as they can vary significantly.

Job Duties for Social Studies Teachers

  • Adapt teaching methods and instructional materials to meet students' varying needs and interests.

  • Establish clear objectives for all lessons, units, and projects, and communicate these objectives to students.

  • Prepare students for later grades by encouraging them to explore learning opportunities and to persevere with challenging tasks.

Technologies and Skills Used by Social Studies Teachers

Computer based training software

  • Moodle
  • Schoology

Electronic mail software

  • Email software
  • Microsoft Outlook

Video creation and editing software

  • Flipgrid
  • Screencastify

Basic Skills

  • Listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions
  • Talking to others

Problem Solving

  • Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it

Social

  • Teaching people how to do something
  • Understanding people's reactions

Social Studies Teacher Internships, Apprenticeships & Practical Training

Gaining hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, and practical training is essential for aspiring Social Studies teachers. Here are some opportunities to consider:

  • Student Teaching Internships: Many teacher preparation programs offer student teaching internships as a core component. These placements allow you to work directly under an experienced teacher, engaging in lesson planning, classroom management, and direct instruction within a real classroom environment.

  • Teaching Assistant Positions: Look for opportunities to serve as a teaching assistant in social studies classes at local middle or high schools. In this role, you can assist with lesson preparation, lead small group discussions, and gain insight into classroom dynamics while receiving mentorship from a full-time educator.

  • After-School Programs: Participate in or volunteer with after-school programs focused on social studies or related subjects. These programs often need facilitators for educational activities, providing a platform for you to apply your knowledge in a less formal teaching setting.

  • Educational Nonprofits or Museums: Consider internships with educational nonprofits or historical museums that focus on civic education or social studies. These organizations often have programs where you can help develop curriculum, participate in educational outreach, and engage with community members.

  • Summer Camps: Many summer camps offer programs centered around social studies themes such as history, geography, or cultural studies. Working as a camp counselor or educator can enhance your teaching skills and provide valuable experience in managing groups and planning engaging activities.

  • Curriculum Development Internships: Some educational organizations offer internships focused on the development of social studies curriculum. This experience will allow you to get involved in lesson planning and understanding the educational standards related to social studies.

  • State or Local Education Departments: Investigate internship opportunities with your state or local education department. These internships could provide insight into educational policy, planning, and reform initiatives related to social studies education.

  • Online Teaching Platforms: With the growth of online education, you might find internships with virtual schools or online tutoring services. These opportunities can help you learn about online pedagogy and how to create engaging digital content for students.

Engaging in these internships, apprenticeships, and practical training opportunities will not only enhance your teaching skills but also build a professional network, making you a more competitive candidate in the job market.

Social Studies Teacher Continuing Education & Professional Development (2024)

As a Social Studies Teacher, engaging in continuing education and professional development is essential for enhancing your skills, staying updated with educational standards, and fostering your professional growth. Here are several opportunities to consider:

Graduate Degrees

  • Master’s Degrees: Pursuing a Master of Arts or Master of Science in Education with a focus on Social Studies can broaden your knowledge base and teaching skills. This advanced degree often leads to career advancement and higher salary potential.
  • Doctorate Degrees: If you aspire to academic leadership, consider a Doctorate in Education (Ed.D.) or a Ph.D. in a relevant field. These degrees can prepare you for roles in administration, curriculum development, or higher education faculty positions.

Certification and Endorsements

  • National Board Certification: Achieving National Board Certification demonstrates your commitment to the profession and can enhance your credibility as an educator. The process involves a rigorous assessment of your teaching practices and effectiveness.
  • Additional Endorsements: You may seek endorsements in specialized areas such as history, geography, or special education. These can make you more marketable and allow you to teach a broader range of subjects.

Professional Development Workshops and Conferences

  • Workshops: Participate in workshops that focus on innovative teaching strategies, classroom management, or technology integration in social studies education. These can provide practical skills applicable in your teaching practice.
  • Conferences: Attend national or state conferences organized by education associations, such as the National Council for the Social Studies (NCSS), to learn from leading educators and gain insights into current trends and best practices in social studies education.

Online Learning

  • Webinars and MOOCs: Engage in online webinars or Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) related to social studies. These flexible options allow you to learn at your own pace and from diverse educators around the world.
  • Educational Platforms: Explore courses on platforms like Coursera, Udemy, or EDx that focus on pedagogy, curriculum design, or specific content areas related to social studies.

Classroom Action Research

  • Action Research Projects: Conducting action research within your classroom can lead to personal growth and improvement in teaching practices. This process involves identifying a problem, implementing a solution, and evaluating the results, contributing to your professional development.

Networking and Professional Associations

  • Join Professional Organizations: Become a member of organizations such as the NCSS or local teaching associations. These groups provide networking opportunities, resources, and information about upcoming professional development events.
  • Peer Collaboration: Collaborate with fellow educators to share resources, teaching strategies, and feedback. Engaging in peer observation can provide valuable insights into your teaching practice.

Mentorship

  • Find a Mentor: Seek mentorship from experienced educators who can provide guidance, support, and insights into effective teaching practices and career advancement.
  • Become a Mentor: As you gain experience, consider mentoring new teachers or student teachers. This role can enhance your leadership skills and deepen your understanding of teaching methodologies.

These continuing education and professional development opportunities can significantly impact your effectiveness as a Social Studies Teacher and open pathways for career advancement. Embracing lifelong learning will ensure you remain a relevant and influential educator in the field of social studies.

What To Look For When Deciding On Campus vs Online Degree Programs for Social Studies Teachers (2024)

When considering a career as a Social Studies Teacher, you will encounter various educational pathways available both online and on-campus. Each format comes with its unique benefits and challenges, and understanding these differences can help you choose the best option aligned with your personal circumstances and learning preferences.

Online Education Programs

  • Flexibility: Online programs offer a more flexible learning schedule, allowing you to complete coursework at your own pace and around your existing commitments.
  • Accessibility: You can access online programs from anywhere, which is beneficial if you are working or have family responsibilities that make commuting difficult.
  • Diverse Course Offerings: Many universities offer a wide range of specializations and electives online, providing unique opportunities to tailor your education.
  • Technology Skills: Enrolling in an online program boosts your digital literacy, an important skill in modern classrooms where technology integration is increasingly important.
  • Limited In-Person Interaction: Online education can sometimes lack the personal touch of face-to-face interactions. Building rapport with peers and instructors may be more challenging.
  • Self-Motivation Required: Success in online programs requires strong self-discipline and motivation, as you will need to manage your time effectively without a traditional classroom structure.

Campus-Based Education Programs

  • Personal Interaction: Campus programs provide opportunities for in-person discussions, networking, and collaboration, which can enhance your learning experience and foster relationships with faculty and peers.
  • Structured Environment: The traditional classroom setting may offer a clearer structure, helping you stay focused and engaged with set class times and schedules.
  • Access to Campus Resources: On-campus students typically have access to resources such as libraries, study groups, counseling services, and extracurricular activities that may enrich your educational experience.
  • Hands-On Experiences: Many campus programs include practical components like student teaching opportunities, which can provide valuable, real-world teaching experience.
  • Potential Higher Costs: Attending a campus-based program may involve additional expenses like commuting, housing, and campus fees, which you should consider in your financial planning.
  • Limited Flexibility: You may need to adhere to a rigid schedule that can conflict with work and personal responsibilities.

Ultimately, the decision between an online or campus-based education program for becoming a Social Studies Teacher should depend on your learning preferences, lifestyle, financial situation, and career goals. Both options can lead to a fulfilling and successful teaching career when aligned with your individual needs.

Social Studies Teacher Typical Career Path (2024)

As you embark on a career as a Social Studies Teacher, your professional journey may follow several stages, allowing for growth and specialization over time. Below is an outline of the typical career path you might expect.

Entry-Level Positions

  • Student Teacher Intern:

    • This position typically occurs during your college education and allows you to gain hands-on experience in a classroom under the supervision of an experienced teacher.

  • Social Studies Teacher (Middle or High School):

    • After obtaining a bachelor's degree in education or a related field and securing teaching certification, you will generally start as a classroom teacher responsible for delivering the social studies curriculum to students.
    • You may teach subjects such as history, geography, civics, or economics, depending on your expertise and the school’s requirements.

Mid-Level Positions

  • Lead Teacher or Department Head:

    • After gaining several years of teaching experience, you may take on leadership roles within your department. This includes mentoring new teachers, coordinating curriculum development, and assessing the department's effectiveness.

  • Curriculum Developer:

    • Some Social Studies Teachers transition into curriculum development roles, creating instructional materials and assessments that align with state standards and educational best practices.

  • Instructional Coach:

    • In this role, you would work alongside teachers to improve their instructional practices through observations, feedback, and shared resources.

Advanced Roles

  • School Administrator:

    • With additional qualifications, such as a master's degree in educational leadership, you may move into administrative roles, such as Assistant Principal or Principal. Your focus would shift to broader school management and curricular oversight.

  • Educational Consultant:

    • Experienced teachers may choose to work as independent consultants, providing expertise to schools or districts on social studies instruction, curriculum design, and teacher training.

  • University Lecturer or Professor:

    • Pursuing advanced degrees, such as a Ph.D., allows you to teach at the collegiate level, training future educators and researching educational methodologies.

  • Policy Advocate or Educational Researcher:

    • With a strong background in education and a passion for systemic change, you may also transition into roles that influence educational policy or focus on research related to social studies education at local, state, or national levels.

As you progress in your career, opportunities for professional development and specialization can shape your path in impactful ways.

Related Fields and Alternative Career Paths to Social Studies Teachers (2024)

As a Social Studies Teacher, you possess a unique skill set and educational background that can be valuable in a variety of related fields. Here are some alternative career paths you might consider:

  • Curriculum Developer
    Your understanding of educational content and teaching strategies allows you to design and evaluate educational programs. You could work for school districts, educational publishers, or nonprofit organizations focused on education.

  • Educational Consultant
    Drawing on your expertise in teaching strategies and classroom management, you can provide guidance to schools and teachers looking to improve their practices. This role may involve staff training, program evaluation, and the development of educational materials.

  • Museum Educator
    A background in social studies equips you to create educational programs within museums or historical sites. Responsibilities include developing curricula, conducting tours, and organizing community outreach programs to enhance public engagement.

  • Community Outreach Coordinator
    With strong communication and organizational skills, you can work for nonprofit organizations or governmental agencies to promote community programs. This position often involves collaborating with diverse groups, planning events, and raising awareness about social issues.

  • Policy Analyst
    Your analytical skills can translate well into research and analysis roles in governmental and non-profit sectors. You might evaluate educational policies, conduct research on social issues, or work on legislative advocacy initiatives.

  • Librarian or Information Specialist
    If you pursue additional education in library science, your teaching experience can support a transition to a library role. Here, you can help students navigate resources, develop programming, and promote literacy within the community.

  • Writing and Editing
    If you have a talent for writing, you could transition into educational content writing or curriculum editing. This role involves creating educational resources, articles, and instructional materials for educational institutions or publishing companies.

  • Social Worker
    With additional qualifications, your experience in understanding diverse communities and social structures can lead to a career in social work. You would be equipped to support individuals and families through various social challenges.

  • Education Administrator
    Pursuing a role in school administration can be a natural step forward. As an administrator, you would work on policy implementation, school management, and staff development, influencing the way education is delivered to students.

  • Human Resources Specialist
    Your skills in communication, organization, and conflict resolution can be applied in human resources. This role involves recruitment, training, and personnel management, making use of your understanding of educational environments and interpersonal dynamics.

Each of these paths builds on the foundational skills and knowledge you have developed as a Social Studies Teacher, allowing for a seamless transition into a variety of meaningful and impactful roles.

Social Studies Teacher Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) (2024)

  • What education is required to become a social studies teacher?
    You typically need a bachelor's degree in education with a concentration in social studies or a related field. Many programs include coursework in history, geography, political science, and sociology.

  • Do I need a teaching license to teach social studies?
    Yes, public school teachers are usually required to have a state-issued teaching license or certification. This often involves completing an accredited teacher preparation program and passing relevant exams.

  • What is the benefit of obtaining a master's degree as a social studies teacher?
    A master’s degree can enhance your teaching skills, potentially increase your salary, and may open up opportunities for advancement into administrative or specialized roles.

  • Are there alternative certification routes for becoming a social studies teacher?
    Yes, alternative certification programs are available for individuals who already hold a degree in a non-education field. These programs typically include pedagogical training and a period of supervised teaching.

  • What subjects fall under the social studies umbrella?
    Social studies encompass various disciplines including history, geography, civics, political science, sociology, and anthropology. Familiarity with these subjects will be beneficial in your teaching career.

  • How does student-teaching experience factor into my education?
    Student-teaching is a critical component of teacher preparation programs. It provides hands-on experience in a classroom setting under the mentorship of an experienced educator, which is essential for developing practical teaching skills.

  • Are there continuing education requirements for social studies teachers?
    Most states require teachers to engage in professional development and continuing education to maintain their licensure. This often includes workshops, additional coursework, or pursuing advanced degrees.

  • Can I teach social studies at both the middle school and high school levels with the same certification?
    This varies by state. Some states allow one certification to cover both middle and high school, while others require separate endorsements for different grade levels.

  • How important is it to have knowledge of current events as a social studies teacher?
    Understanding current events is important, as it helps you relate historical and social concepts to the students' lives. Being well-informed will enable you to engage students in meaningful discussions.

  • Can I work in international schools with my social studies teaching degree?
    Yes, many international schools hire teachers with U.S. credentials. However, requirements can differ, so it's vital to research the specific qualifications needed for the school or region you are interested in.

Additional Resources for Social Studies Teachers (2024)

  • National Council for the Social Studies (NCSS)

    • Website: ncss.org
    • Offers resources on curriculum standards, teaching strategies, and professional development opportunities tailored for social studies educators.

  • American Federation of Teachers (AFT)

    • Website: aft.org
    • Provides tools for teachers, including lesson plans, teaching tips, and access to educational research related to social studies education.

  • Edutopia

    • Website: edutopia.org
    • A platform that shares innovative teaching methods, classroom management strategies, and a database of resources to enhance social studies instruction.

  • Teach.org

    • Website: teach.org
    • Offers information on becoming a teacher, including educational pathways, certification requirements, and tools to find teaching programs in social studies.

  • U.S. Department of Education

    • Website: ed.gov
    • Provides resources on federal education policies, funding opportunities, and guidelines for social studies curricula implemented at the national level.

  • PBS LearningMedia

    • Website: pbslearningmedia.org
    • Features a vast collection of free teaching resources, including videos, interactive lessons, and timelines specifically for social studies topics.

  • The College Board

    • Website: collegeboard.org
    • Offers information on Advanced Placement (AP) courses in social studies and resources for teachers seeking to enhance their curriculum with AP content.

  • National History Education Clearinghouse

    • Website: teachinghistory.org
    • A resource for history educators that includes teaching materials, classroom activities, and strategies for effective history instruction within social studies.

  • Social Studies Research and Practice (SSRP)

    • Website: ssrpjournal.org
    • An academic journal dedicated to social studies education that provides research articles, practical applications, and insights for improving teaching practices.

  • Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP)

    • Website: caepnet.org
    • The primary accrediting body for educator preparation programs, offering guidance on standards and best practices to achieve teacher certification in social studies.

Utilizing these resources will support your journey towards becoming a qualified social studies teacher.