Teacher in front of class whiteboard

Teaching

Technical Degree Transfer

In this rewarding field, you’ll learn as much from your students as they’ll learn from you. The Associate of Arts in Teaching (A.A.T.) degree transfers to Texas public universities and lays the foundation for a Texas teaching certification.

Four Teaching Degree Pathways

San Jacinto College offers four focused teaching degree pathways designed to help you take the next step toward a rewarding career in education. 
EC-6 AAT Pathway Teacher with Student

EC-6 AAT Pathway

Ideal for future elementary educators, this pathway prepares you to teach early childhood through sixth grade. You’ll build a strong foundation across reading, writing, math, science, and history, skills essential for guiding young learners.
7-12 History AAT Pathway Teacher with Students

7-12 History AAT Pathway

If you’re passionate about bringing the past to life, this pathway equips you to teach history to students in grades 7–12.
7-12 Life Science AAT Pathway Teacher with Students

7-12 Life Science AAT Pathway

Designed for those who love biology and the natural world, this pathway prepares you to teach life science courses in grades 7–12.
7-12 ELA AAT Pathway Teacher with Students

7-12 ELA AAT Pathway

If you’re inspired by literature, writing, and communication, this pathway prepares you to teach English/Language Arts to students in grades 7–12.

Careers

Elementary School Teachers
 $62,407
Middle School
Teachers
 $64,359
High School (Secondary) Teachers
 $64,088

 Opportunities

Texas offers abundant opportunities for educators, with strong demand across grade levels and subject areas.

Teachers will have the flexibility to grow, advance, and make a real difference in diverse classrooms across the state.

Salary Source: Texas Wages

DEGREES & CERTIFICATES

Teaching, Bachelor of Applied Science

Technical Degree

The Bachelor of Applied Science in Education prepares you to work with children from six weeks through third grade. Graduates are qualified for careers in early childhood settings such as Head Start and may also apply for teacher certification to teach preschool through third grade in public schools.

Length 4 years
If you’re studying full-time, you can complete the 120 credits for this program in four years.

This degree is also offered online.

Teaching, Early Childhood to 6th Grade, AAT

Transfer
This Associate of Arts in Teaching (A.A.T.) degree prepares you to transfer to a four-year college or university and begin your pathway to Texas teacher certification. Designed to meet transfer requirements for Texas public universities, the A.A.T. provides the academic foundation needed for admission into a university or educator preparation program, including GPA and testing criteria.
Length 2 Years
If you're studying full-time, you can complete the 60 credits for this program in four terms.

This degree is also offered online.

Teaching, Grades 7 - 12, AAT

Transfer
This Associate of Arts in Teaching degree prepares you to transfer to a 4-year college or university. You will be able to focuse your studies on a particular subject area to prepare you for a teaching career in the field of your choice, such as history, life science, or English/Language Arts for grades 7-12.
Length 2 Years
If you're studying full-time, you can complete the 60 credits for this program in four terms.

This degree is also offered online.
Applying to San Jac

Sounds great, but how do I apply?

Ready to take the first step toward an exciting future? It’s time to apply to San Jac. We’ll guide you through the process and help you start building your future, today.

Your Questions Answered

Big decision, simple answers. Let’s clear it up.

Absolutely! San Jac's teaching degrees are transferable to any Texas public university. They also lay the initial foundation needed for a Texas teacher certifica­tion. 

The AAT has been approved by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB).

 

Yes! San Jac offers an accredited, Bachelor of Applied Science in Education, Early Childhood Development to help fill the workforce gap that currently exists in early childhood education.

Teachers who have already earned an associate of applied science (AAS) in early childhood/child development and are working in the industry can enroll in the BAS-ECE program.

Learn more about the program here

 

You bet! Texas is experiencing a severe teacher shortage. Some of the most in demand areas are as follows: 
  • Bilingual/English as a Second Language

  • Career and Technical Education 

  • Computer Science/Technology Applications

  • English Language Arts and Reading

  • Mathematics

  • Special Education

 

 Student Development

Littles Need Teaching, Too

Earn a Child Development Degree or Certificate
If you’re interested in working with kids, but having your own classroom and curriculum isn’t quite for you, consider our Child Development programs. We offer a variety of educational pathways that can prepare you for anything from working at or owning a childcare center to teaching kindergarten through 3rd grade for an ISD.

Shift to Teaching Fueled by Passion

Jamelli Cortez started her journey at San Jacinto College in the diagnostic medical sonography program. In August 2021, she took a part-time job with Galena Park Independent School District as a tutor, and her career goals changed forever.
Jamelli Cortez
I started tutoring students in early childhood education, from pre-K to fourth grade. I fell in love with teaching and never looked back.”
Jamelli Cortez
San Jac Alumna

Jamelli cites education professor Jorge Embil and early childhood program director Caresal Bolds for further igniting her enthusiasm about a career in teaching.

Jamelli graduated with her associate degree in teaching from San Jacinto College in May 2023. In the future, she hopes to earn her bachelor’s degree and teach bilingual classes in third or fourth grade at a local school district.

 

Making an Impact on Future Generations

At San Jacinto College, our teaching programs celebrate the heart of what education is all about—our students. Our pathways empower aspiring educators to grow, thrive, and make a difference in their communities. Explore the remarkable journeys happening right here at San Jac, where futures in teaching take flight.

Any Questions?

We can help. Contact our department to find out more about San Jac’s program at 281-998-6350 ext. 3260. Have general questions? Give us a call at 281-998-6150.
Dawn Eaton
DC, Beh/Soc Sciences and Educ
Phone
(281) 998-6150x3732
Gwendolyn Berry
Dept Ch, Child Deve/Educ
Phone
(281) 476-1867