Online Drama Teacher
Drama is an excellent form of self-expression and a highly valued educational subject in elementary, secondary, and postsecondary schools. Drama teachers educate students in the art of theater production, including costume and set designing, performing arts, and direction. These professionals come from a variety of educational backgrounds, with anything from no formal college education to a master’s degree, and can work in a number of different environments.
Qualifications: Courses, Training, Licensure
The minimum education requirement for a career as a drama teacher is the completion of a 4-year degree program at a postsecondary school. A bachelor’s degree in theatre arts education is the typical degree for drama teachers in secondary schools. Positions at colleges or universities require a master’s degree or PhD in Theatre or Performing Arts. Depending on the setting in which you will be teaching, the exact degree or credentials required will vary. For example, if you’re teaching drama at a local community center, you may need only to have experience in theater; however, if you’re looking to teach drama in a school setting, you’ll need at least a bachelor’s degree in Theater, Performing Arts, or a related a field.
All teaching positions in public school systems, including drama, require state certification. Licensing is generally done by the State Board of Education. Those working in private schools or with postsecondary institutions may not need to pursue a state license; however, they may decide to join a professional organization such as the Association for Theater in Higher Education in order to stay current with trends in drama theory and instruction
Required Skills
Working as a Drama teacher requires flexibility, determination, and lots of energy. Especially when teaching in a school environment, dedication to the task at hand and a love of your job will serve you well.
Nature of the Work and Working Conditions
Drama teachers educate students on all the aspects of theatre production in elementary, middle school, higher secondary, and postsecondary classrooms in both private and public schools. They teach subjects such as acting, costuming, set designing, and directing by planning a variety of activities and exercises to help students become comfortable with performing on stage and understanding the core concepts of drama. They also play a vital role in promoting social skills and self-expression in their students. They prepare students to become involved in a variety of dramatic performances throughout their school years and as adults. Drama teachers help students develop excellent creativity, discipline, and teamwork skills to prepare them for a meaningful life. They may also provide individual and group performance instruction. .
Job Opportunities and Salaries
The job prospects for drama teachers in postsecondary schools are greatest for those with advanced education and experience, while employment prospects for teachers who work with performing arts centers is expected to be about average. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the number of available positions for secondary teachers, including drama teachers, is expected to grow at an average rate of 13% through 2018 (www.bls.gov). The BLS also reported a median wage for secondary teachers of $47,100 to $51,180 in May 2008. Postsecondary teachers, including those who teach theater, can earn a median income of more than $58,830. Drama teachers who work with local or traveling theater companies may earn a median annual wage of $64,430.
Now What Are You Waiting For?
If becoming a qualified Drama teacher is your goal, go ahead and pick the online Drama Education degree program that suits you the most from the list of courses offered by accredited universities and be on the way to building a successful career!
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics