Psychology Teacher Certification in Secondary Schools

Psychology Teacher Certification in Secondary Schools

Teacher certification in psychology should be addressed by each school district in which psychology is taught. The first step for each district is to determine whether or not present teachers of psychology meet the certification requirements for its state board of education.

A survey of certification requirements for psychology teachers reveals a wide variation from state to state. Some states have no specific requirements, and others require a degree in psychology. The purpose of this document is not to supersede previous state board of education mandates. Rather, it is intended to serve as a guide for:
• Teachers and future teachers who are trying to determine whether they have the recommended background in the discipline necessary to teach a scientific psychology course
• School districts preparing to offer their first psychology courses
• School districts seeking to provide germane in-service opportunities for their experienced psychology teachers

To function adequately in a scientific psychology course, teachers should have background in or seek to enrich their understanding of content areas typically covered in such a course. Undergraduate or graduate level course work will help teachers achieve:
• Proficiency in the scientific method and research skills
• Increased understanding of social-emotional issues
• Increased sensitivity to social-emotional issues
• Expertise in biologically based behavioral phenomena
• Familiarity with cognitive components of behavior
• Knowledge of developmental processes

Many teachers may be deficient in one or more of the domains listed above. Teachers underprepared in these areas should take college courses aimed at eliminating the particular deficiency, or enroll in one of the many psychology teacher summer workshops held throughout the country. For more information about these summer workshops, contact the Education Directorate of the American Psychological Association at: 750 First Street, NE, Washington, DC, 20002-4242, (202) 336-5500.

The ever-changing nature of psychology requires continuing education for all high school psychology teachers.