OVERVIEW
What Is a Chemistry Teacher?
Chemistry teachers are certified professionals that teach foundational principles of chemistry through lectures and lab activities. They most often teach 10th or 11th graders after these students have finished courses in biology, earth science, or another general science. For many learners, chemistry provides their first proper exposure to how atoms and molecules behave and interact with each other. Throughout a typical high school chemistry course, students may learn about the following concepts:
- The periodic table of elements
- States of matter
- Chemical compounds
- Chemical reactions and bonds
- Properties of atoms and subatomic particles
- Stoichiometry and balancing equations
- Moles and molar mass
- Organic chemistry
- Acids and bases
- Scientific notation
Demonstrating chemical reactions in a lab environment is an important part of teaching chemistry. It’s during these labs that students get a hands-on experience of observing and measuring chemical changes while learning how to handle chemical compounds and lab equipment safely. One of the primary responsibilities of any chemistry teacher is to instill in students a well-rounded knowledge of chemistry principles and their applications in the real world.
RESPONSIBILITIES
What Does a Chemistry Teacher Do?
Chemistry teachers pair their expertise in the subject with different methods of teaching to meet student needs and create an engaging classroom atmosphere. Below are some common teaching responsibilities:
- Preparing and giving lessons
- Developing classroom expectations and syllabi
- Administering labs
- Creating and grading assessments
- Assigning homework
- Maintaining lesson documentation
- Evaluating student progress
- Using technology as a teaching aid
- Providing one-on-one help for struggling students
- Communicating with faculty members
- Proctoring state-mandated exams
How Long Does It Take to Become a Chemistry Teacher?
Most professionals looking to become a chemistry teacher take about four to six years to complete all the necessary education. Those enrolled in online programs—like the ones offered at WGU—may finish faster.
EDUCATION & BEST DEGREES
How Do I Become a Chemistry Teacher?
Like other secondary-level science teachers, chemistry teachers need an education that can prepare them for licensure and career-long success. Consider these steps to become a chemistry teacher:
- Earn a bachelor’s degree in chemistry, chemistry education, or a similar subject. An undergraduate degree provides a bedrock understanding of general chemistry concepts.
- Earn a relevant master’s degree. While not always required, a master’s degree can grant specialized knowledge in chemistry or science teaching. It may also increase your income.
- Get certified. Nearly all chemistry teachers in the U.S. must be certified in order to teach at a public or charter school. Earning certification requires completing a teacher preparation program, passing an exam, and applying for licensure. Certification requirements for secondary education vary by state.
- Gain experience. Most chemistry teachers gain practical experience via student teaching during or after their degree program. Student teaching involves aspiring educators teaching under supervision to learn how to instruct and manage students.
- Seek continuing education. For example, you might participate in a professional development workshop or attend a teaching conference.
Best Degrees for a Chemistry Teacher
Education
Science Education (Secondary Chemistry) – B.S.
An online teaching degree and teacher certification program for aspiring...
An online teaching degree and teacher certification program for aspiring middle or high school chemistry teachers.
Leads to teacher licensure. Specific grade levels will vary depending on licensure in your state.
- Time: 65% of students finish this online chemistry degree within 37 months.
- Tuition: $3,825 per 6-month term.
- Courses: 39 total courses in this program (40 for Washington residents).
Skills for your résumé included in this program:
- Physical Chemistry
- Inorganic Chemistry
- Organic Chemistry
- Educational Psychology & Development
- Biochemistry
This chemistry teaching degree program requires in-classroom observation and a term of full-time student teaching. Earn a chemistry degree online and be eligible for a teaching certification.
Education
Science Education (Secondary Chemistry) – M.A.
An online master's degree for current teachers who want to specialize in...
An online master's degree for current teachers who want to specialize in teaching chemistry to middle or high school students.
- Time: 64% of students earn this degree within 18 months.
- Tuition: $4,125 per 6-month term.
- Courses: 14 total courses in this program.
Skills for your résumé included in this program:
- General Chemistry
- Physical Chemistry
- Inorganic Chemistry
- Organic Chemistry
- Biochemistry
Propel your career as a junior high or high school chemistry teacher with this education master's degree.
How Much Does a Chemistry Teacher Make?
$65,220
A chemistry teacher’s salary typically depends on a number of factors, including the grade level taught, amount of teaching experience, location, and more. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average annual salary for high school teachers in May 2023 was $65,220. The lowest 10% of teachers earned less than $48,040 while the highest 10% earned more than $106,380. Chemistry teachers can expect a similar income.
What Is the Projected Job Growth?
1%
According to the BLS, the employment of high school teachers is projected to decline by 1% from 2023 to 2033. Despite this trend, about 64,000 teacher jobs are projected each year on average over the decade. Chemistry teachers can expect a similar job growth trend.
SKILLS
What Skills Does a Chemistry Teacher Need?
To be effective at their job, chemistry teachers should strive to be subject matter experts and develop skills in pedagogy, such as classroom management and various teaching styles. Essential skills include:
- Firm knowledge of chemistry concepts, principles, and laws to confidently and competently instruct learners.
- Classroom supervision skills to keep students on task, ask questions, and clarify difficult topics.
- Evaluation skills to track students’ progress and grade their work fairly.
- Curriculum development skills to create a comprehensive course plan complete with relevant rubrics, assignments, and assessments.
- Lab experience to foster safe, enriching laboratory exercises.
- Flexibility with using technology in the classroom as education technology (EdTech) evolves over time.
- Time management to help students prioritize, organize, and finish tasks on time.
- Strong communication skills to ensure that students understand course material and expectations.
- Collaboration skills to effectively share ideas and solutions with other teachers and faculty.
Our Online University Degree Programs Start on the First of Every Month, All Year Long
No need to wait for spring or fall semester. It's back-to-school time at WGU year-round. Get started by talking to an Enrollment Counselor today, and you'll be on your way to realizing your dream of a bachelor's or master's degree—sooner than you might think!
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