How to Switch Careers to Teaching: Online Degree Paths for Future Educators

Why Make the Switch to a Teaching Career?

Many mid-career professionals are drawn to the classroom, eager to contribute to their communities, share their knowledge, or enjoy a more meaningful profession. Here are a few compelling reasons to consider a career in education:

• High demand for qualified teachers across the U.S., especially in STEM, special education, and rural or urban districts.
• Job stability and competitive benefits in public and private school systems.
• Flexible career options, from classroom teaching to instructional design and curriculum leadership.
• Personal fulfillment from shaping the next generation and giving back to your community.

How to Switch to a Teaching Career in 5 Steps

1. Identify your career goals

Start by deciding what type of educator you want to become:

• K–12 public school teacher?
• Community college or adult education instructor?
• Curriculum specialist or education leader?

Each role may require a different academic path and certification track.

2. Choose the right online degree program

LSU Online delivers multiple fully online education degrees that support a variety of career paths. 

These programs are designed for working adults with busy schedules.

Here are just a few examples:

• LSU Shreveport online Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction 
• Designed for aspiring or current educators seeking deeper expertise in pedagogy, instructional strategies, and curriculum development.
• LSU online Master of Education in Educational Leadership
• Ideal for future principals, department heads, or district-level leaders.
•  LSU Alexandria online Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education 
• A focused path for those wanting to serve students in grades 1 through 5.
• LSU online Master of Arts in Education with a Concentration in Higher Education Administration 
• For those who want to shape the college experience from behind the scenes.

3. Understand certification requirements

To become a licensed teacher in public schools, you typically need:

• A bachelor’s degree (in any field)
• Completion of an accredited teacher preparation program
• State licensure exams

Some programs offered through LSU Online are designed for currently certified teachers, while others help prepare you for licensure pathways. Be sure to review the program descriptions and speak with an Enrollment Coach to clarify your next steps.

4. Gain experience and build your network

Even if you’re not yet in a classroom, you can start gaining valuable experience:

• Volunteer with local schools or tutoring programs
• Work as a substitute teacher or paraprofessional
• Join education-focused professional groups or webinars

5. Apply, enroll, and begin your transition

Programs offered through LSU Online feature multiple start dates throughout the year and affordable tuition with no out-of-state fees. With flexible formats and academic support, you can begin building your teaching career while balancing current work or family obligations.

What Skills Transfer From Your Current Career?

One of the most encouraging aspects of switching to a teaching career is how many professional skills transfer directly from other industries.

Transferable skills that make you a great educator

• Communication: Clear and effective communication is essential for instruction, parent engagement, and collaboration with colleagues.
• Project management: If you’ve led teams, organized initiatives, or managed deadlines, you already know how to coordinate and execute lesson plans and classroom management.
• Empathy and leadership: Teachers are leaders, mentors, and emotional anchors. Experience leading teams or supporting customers translates well to student support.
• Subject matter expertise: If you have specialized knowledge (e.g., math, writing, science, marketing), that content expertise can benefit students and even qualify you for certain licensure pathways or endorsements.
• Technology skills: From using LMS platforms to engaging students through digital tools, tech proficiency is more important than ever in education.

In many online programs, these existing strengths are not only acknowledged but integrated into coursework, allowing you to build on what you already know while learning how to apply it to pedagogy and instruction.

Online Teaching Degrees: What Sets LSU Online Apart?

• Flexible, asynchronous learning: Study when and where it works for you
• Affordable tuition: With no hidden fees or surprises
• Academic excellence: Degrees conferred through respected LSU campuses
• Career-focused curriculum: Aligned with today’s classroom and administrative needs

FAQs: Teaching Career Transitions, Answered

What degree do I need to switch to a teaching career?

A teaching career typically requires a bachelor’s degree and a teacher preparation program. 

LSUA offers an online Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education ideal for those interested in starting a teaching career. 

Can I become a teacher without a teaching degree?

You may be eligible to teach with a non-education bachelor’s degree plus a certification program.

Some states offer alternative certification pathways for career changers. Education programs through LSU Online help prepare students for these pathways, depending on prior experience and state requirements.

Are online education degrees respected by employers?

Yes, at LSU Online, you’ll earn the same degree as on-campus students. 

There is no distinction on your diploma or transcript indicating that your degree was completed online. This means your credential carries the same weight, credibility, and recognition as a traditional, in-person program.

How long does it take to earn a teaching degree online?

Most programs can be completed in 12–24 months.

This varies depending on the program and your course load, but LSU Online’s flexible pacing makes it easy to learn on your schedule.

Is teaching a good second career?

Yes, teaching is one of the most popular second careers in the U.S. Many professionals find the transition rewarding due to the opportunity for impact, the variety of roles available, and the ability to bring real-world experience into the classroom.

Take the Next Step With LSU Online

Whether you’re ready to apply or still exploring your options, LSU Online makes it easy to launch your next chapter. Speak with an Enrollment Coach to learn more about:

• Online education degrees that fit your goals
• Program start dates and admissions requirements
• Support services for adult learners

Your teaching career starts here. Explore LSU’s online education programs and apply today.