The high school physics teacher career at a glance
Education: Undergraduate degree, for most states. A degree in physics, physics education, a related STEM degree, or STEM education degree can be beneficial.
Additional training: Teacher certification requirements vary by state and typically include various exams on physics content and teaching methods.
Salary: Starting salaries vary based on state, county, and school district and can range from about $40,000 - $80,000. Mid-career salaries range from $55,000 - $125,000. Get the Facts Out publishes data relating salary to cost of living and home ownership for hundreds of cities. A teaching career can also qualify for student loan forgiveness, reduced mortgage and insurance rates, and other discounts.
Outlook: Approximately 6% of physics bachelors entering the workforce become high school teachers. However, there continues to be high demand for science and math teachers across the U.S. and abroad.
What they do
A high school physics teacher is involved with these activities:
- Writing lesson plans
- Developing demonstrations and lab activities
- Creating assessment/evaluation materials
- Grading student assignments
- Mentoring and advising students
- Assisting with outreach or service initiatives
Two-thirds of high school physics teachers teach at least one non-physics subject, according to the American Institute of Physics Statistical Research Center, as shown in Figure 2 of the National Survey of High School Physics Teachers. Physics teachers who teach subjects outside of physics most often teach classes in chemistry, math, or physical science. High school physics teachers consistently rank highly in job satisfaction, in part due to the working schedule allowing for considerable time off and parents having a similar schedule to their children.
Education and background
In addition to a bachelor’s degree in physics or physics education, teaching experience is important. Many physics departments offer teaching assistantships, internships, or outreach opportunities — these are great ways to gain valuable experience.
Additional training
A teaching certification is required to teach at a public school. Certification requirements vary by state, but generally include student teaching experience, a background check, and an exam such as a Praxis test. Additional requirements can include exams on undergraduate algebra-based physics 1 and 2 content and general teaching methods along with some training on teaching methods if not studied in college. Some states also allow alternative pathways that allow new teachers to meet certification requirements while teaching full time— review your state’s public schools website for details. Private schools and charter schools may have fewer teaching certification requirements.
Career path
High school teachers may take on additional responsibilities, such as creating curriculum materials or mentoring early career teachers. In some cases, a bonus or additional stipend is attached to these extended roles. High school teachers may also take on leadership roles, including facilitating teacher training and professional communities, or an administrative path advancing through positions such as principal or school district administrator. The American Association for Physics Teachers (AAPT) offers resources for high school teachers, including volunteer and leadership roles at the national level. Additionally, the APS PhysTEC program offers resources for physics teacher educators and teacher leaders.
