High School Film Teacher Job Opportunities?

I'm super interested in film and planning to teach it someday. Does anyone have insights on what it's like to find a job as a high school film teacher? Any specific qualifications needed?

Finding a job as a high school film teacher can truly vary depending on the location and type of school, as not all high schools have a specific film program. However, job opportunities can generally be found in larger schools or those with a more art-focused curriculum.

The first step in becoming a high school film teacher is to earn a bachelor's degree, ideally in film studies or a related field, to gain a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter. If the bachelor's degree is not specifically in education, a master's degree in teaching or education may be beneficial. Some states require this additional degree for teachers in secondary education.

In addition to formal education, you'll need to obtain a teaching certification or license from the state you plan to teach in. These certifications generally require you to pass a series of tests on both general teaching principles and your specific subject area.

To be a successful film teacher, experience in the film industry can certainly enhance your lessons and provide real-world examples to your students. More practical experience can also increase your chances of finding employment as it distinguishes you from other candidates.

Lastly, understand that you may need to teach other subjects, such as English or another humanities subject, especially in smaller schools where a full-time film teacher might not be feasible. Thus, flexibility and a willingness to take on additional responsibilities can be quite beneficial in securing a job.

In terms of job outlook, the need for teachers in general is projected to grow about as fast as the average for all occupations according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, so there should be a steady number of opportunities over the next several years.