Becoming a Physics Instructor

Are you someone with a rare interest in physical science? Are you entertaining the thought of pursuing a degree in physics and going into teaching later on? Find out whether teaching is for you. And find out from our basic guide what you need to pursue a career in physics teaching.

Teaching physics is an exciting job – that is, for someone with genuine interest and love for the science.

Not many people can appreciate how amazing the principles that govern the laws of nature work, which is what the study and teaching of physics is all about. And so, if you want to teach physics, you be sure you have the genuine interest and the intellectual capacity to pursue your dream.

Knowing Whether Physics Teaching is For You

If you are at the point of deciding whether to pursue a degree that would lead you to a career in physics teaching, your question might be: how do you tell you are making the right decision? An interest in the physical science is one clue. Are you an inquisitive person, wanting to know the reasons why the physical world works this way and that? Are you particularly interested in concepts like motion, energy or force? Were you a member of a science club and do you read books that are science related? Not only these. Do you enjoy explaining what you learned to others? Do you have a desire to share to others the marvels that you discovered through your readings and explorations? If yes, them most likely you’d find a rewarding experience teaching physics.

Not many have the interest in the sciences, more so in physics. Also, not many have the mental ability and the patience to pursue studies of topics like magnetism and forces. And so physics teachers are usually in demand. If you are really serious in pursuing a career as physics instructor, you can prepare yourself for a physics degree by studying well all the preparatory math and science courses in secondary school. You can join science clubs and volunteer in tutorial centres. Many students need help in doing math and science assignments. It’s a great way to discover more about your interest and develop confidence in dealing with people in a learning environment.

Studying to Become a Physics Teacher

And so, the way for you to go is to take a Bachelor of Science degree with a major in physics. You can also take a more specific degree like Applied Physics, which deals on the practical application of physics. Some schools will require a teaching license. A teaching experience is always an advantage. A background in environmental science is another edge. Physics teachers find employment in technical colleges, public schools, state or public colleges and universities. According to Indeed.com, a physics teacher in Boston can earn $59,000, that in Covina (Calif.) $38,000.
 

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