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Social Science Teacher

Overview, Education, Careers Types, Skills, Career Path, Resources

Social Science Teachers educate students about history, civics, economics, and geography, fostering critical thinking and understanding of society.

Average Salary

₹3,50,000

Growth

medium

Satisfaction

high

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Educational Requirements

Education Requirements to Become a Social Science Teacher

To become a social science teacher in India, several educational qualifications and skills are generally required. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

  • Bachelor's Degree:
    • A bachelor's degree in a relevant social science discipline such as History, Political Science, Economics, Geography, Sociology, or a related field is essential.
  • Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.):
    • A B.Ed. degree is mandatory to teach in most schools. This degree focuses on pedagogy, teaching methods, and classroom management.
    • Some universities offer a B.A. B.Ed. integrated course, which combines the bachelor's degree with the B.Ed. program, typically lasting four years.
  • Master's Degree (M.A.):
    • While not always mandatory, a Master's degree in the specific social science subject can enhance job prospects and is often required for teaching at higher secondary levels (grades 11 and 12).
  • Teacher Eligibility Test (TET) / State Eligibility Test (SET):
    • Qualifying for TET or SET is often required for teaching positions in government schools. These tests assess the candidate's knowledge of the subject matter and teaching aptitude.
  • National Eligibility Test (NET):
    • For teaching positions in colleges and universities, clearing the NET exam conducted by the UGC (University Grants Commission) is usually required.

Additional Skills:

  • Communication Skills: Effective communication is crucial for explaining complex topics clearly.
  • Patience and Empathy: Understanding and addressing the diverse needs of students.
  • Classroom Management: Ability to maintain discipline and create a conducive learning environment.
  • Critical Thinking: Encouraging students to analyze and evaluate information.
  • Passion for the Subject: A genuine interest in social sciences to inspire students.
Study Path
Top Colleges

Top Colleges in India for Social Science and Education

To pursue a career as a Social Science teacher, consider these top colleges in India:

  • Delhi University (DU):
    • Offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in Social Sciences.
    • Courses: B.A. (Hons) in History, Political Science, Economics, Sociology, and Geography; B.Ed.; M.A. in various Social Science disciplines.
  • Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), New Delhi:
    • Known for its strong Social Sciences programs and research-oriented environment.
    • Courses: B.A. (Hons), M.A., and Ph.D. programs in History, Political Science, Economics, Sociology, and Geography.
  • Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Varanasi:
    • Offers comprehensive programs in Social Sciences and Education.
    • Courses: B.A., B.Ed., M.A., and Ph.D. programs in various Social Science subjects.
  • Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI), New Delhi:
    • Provides quality education in Social Sciences with a focus on research and practical training.
    • Courses: B.A. (Hons), B.Ed., M.A., and Ph.D. programs in History, Political Science, Economics, and Sociology.
  • Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS), Mumbai:
    • Specializes in Social Sciences with a focus on social work and development studies.
    • Courses: M.A. in Social Work, Development Studies, and other related fields.
  • Lady Shri Ram College (LSR), Delhi:
    • A top-ranked women's college offering excellent programs in Social Sciences.
    • Courses: B.A. (Hons) in History, Political Science, Economics, and Sociology.
  • Presidency College, Kolkata:
    • One of the oldest and most prestigious colleges in India, offering strong programs in Social Sciences.
    • Courses: B.A. and M.A. programs in History, Political Science, Economics, and Sociology.

These colleges provide excellent academic environments, experienced faculty, and comprehensive resources to help you succeed in your journey to becoming a Social Science teacher.

Fees

The fees for courses to become a Social Science teacher can vary widely depending on the type of institution (government, private, or autonomous) and the level of the course (B.Ed., M.A., etc.). Here’s a general overview:

  • Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.):
    • Government Colleges: ₹5,000 to ₹20,000 per year.
    • Private Colleges: ₹20,000 to ₹1,50,000 per year.
    • Autonomous Colleges: ₹30,000 to ₹2,00,000 per year.
  • Master of Arts (M.A. in Social Sciences):
    • Government Colleges: ₹3,000 to ₹15,000 per year.
    • Private Colleges: ₹15,000 to ₹1,00,000 per year.
    • Autonomous Colleges: ₹20,000 to ₹1,50,000 per year.
  • Integrated B.A. B.Ed. Courses:
    • Government Colleges: ₹10,000 to ₹30,000 per year.
    • Private Colleges: ₹30,000 to ₹2,00,000 per year.

Additional Costs:

  • Application Fees: ₹500 to ₹1,000 per exam/application.
  • Study Materials: ₹2,000 to ₹5,000 per year.
  • Examination Fees: ₹1,000 to ₹3,000 per exam.

Factors Affecting Fees:

  • College Reputation: Well-reputed colleges often charge higher fees.
  • Infrastructure: Colleges with better facilities and infrastructure may have higher fees.
  • Location: Urban colleges tend to be more expensive than those in rural areas.
  • Scholarships: Many colleges offer scholarships based on merit or financial need, which can significantly reduce the overall cost.
Related Exams

To become a Social Science teacher, several exams can help you secure a position in schools and colleges. Here are some key exams:

  • Teacher Eligibility Test (TET):
    • TET is conducted at both the central and state levels in India. It is mandatory for teachers in government and government-aided schools.
    • Purpose: To ensure that teachers meet the essential standards of quality.
    • Structure: Generally includes sections on Child Development and Pedagogy, Language I & II, Mathematics, and Environmental Studies or Social Studies.
  • State Eligibility Test (SET):
    • SET is conducted by various states in India for the recruitment of teachers at the state level.
    • Purpose: Similar to TET, it assesses the eligibility of candidates to teach in state government schools.
    • Structure: Varies from state to state but generally covers subject knowledge and teaching aptitude.
  • National Eligibility Test (NET):
    • NET is conducted by the University Grants Commission (UGC) for determining the eligibility of candidates for the position of Assistant Professor in colleges and universities.
    • Purpose: To ensure a standard for the quality of teaching at the higher education level.
    • Structure: Consists of two papers: Paper I (General Aptitude) and Paper II (Subject-Specific).
  • Central Teacher Eligibility Test (CTET):
    • CTET is conducted by the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) for teachers in central government schools like Kendriya Vidyalayas and Navodaya Vidyalayas.
    • Purpose: To ensure teachers in central government schools meet the required standards.
    • Structure: Similar to TET, with sections on Child Development and Pedagogy, Language I & II, Mathematics, and Environmental Studies or Social Studies.

These exams help ensure that only qualified and competent individuals are selected to teach Social Science, maintaining the quality of education.

Exam NameExam Date
Pros And Cons

Pros

  1. Making a positive impact on students' lives.
  2. Intellectual stimulation through continuous learning.
  3. Job security, especially in government schools.
  4. Opportunities for professional development.
  5. Respect and recognition in the community.
  6. Contributing to society by shaping young minds.
  7. Varied daily tasks, avoiding monotony.
  8. Longer holidays and vacations.
  9. Personal satisfaction from student success.
  10. Opportunities for extracurricular involvement.

Cons

  1. High workload with lesson planning and grading.
  2. Dealing with challenging student behaviors.
  3. Limited opportunities for high financial growth.
  4. Bureaucratic processes in government schools.
  5. Emotional stress from student issues.
  6. Keeping up with curriculum changes.
  7. Dealing with parental expectations and pressure.
  8. Lack of resources in some schools.
  9. Large class sizes can be difficult to manage.
  10. Risk of burnout due to high demands.