Debunking 6 Myths About Becoming a Teacher as a Career Changer
| by Kyle Freelander
Switching careers to become a teacher is a major life decision that many people consider, especially after working in other industries. While teaching can be incredibly rewarding, it also comes with challenges that can feel intimidating for those considering a change.
Unfortunately, there are many misconceptions about transitioning into teaching that can deter people from taking the leap. In this post, we’ll debunk several myths about becoming a teacher as a career changer to provide a clearer picture of what to expect.
Myth #1: “It’s Too Late to Start a Teaching Career”
One of the most pervasive myths is that you’re too old to change careers and become a teacher. This is 100% false. Many teachers start in the classroom after years of experience in other fields. Schools value diverse perspectives, and bringing your prior professional knowledge to teaching can be a huge asset.
For instance, if you’ve spent years in the business world, your skills in project management, communication, and problem-solving can enrich your teaching style and benefit your students. It’s never too late to follow your passion, and many career changers find that teaching provides a new sense of fulfillment and purpose.
“It’s important for students to be able to see themselves in their teachers. It’s pivotal for us to be able to recruit and bring in teachers that can inspire students from all areas. There are so many different pathways to enter our profession, and we’re looking for people with bachelor’s degrees that didn’t necessarily go to school to be teachers. Not that we don’t want people who went to school to be teachers, of course, but we also want people that come from unique backgrounds. Kids have to look at their teachers and say, ‘Oh, that looks like me! I can do that! Oh, that’s another way of seeing the world.’ So, we need people from all over and all different types of industry to really consider ‘what kind of gifts do I have?”
— Dumarie Rodriguez-Dillard, Director of Leadership Pathways, Recruitment/Retention
& Certification at Seminole County Public Schools
Myth #2: You Need to Go Back to School & Get a Traditional Education Degree to Teach
If you are wondering if you need to go back to school to become a teacher, rest assured you do NOT! Many people believe the only way to become a teacher is to go back to school for a traditional four-year education degree. However, alternative certification programs — such as those offered by institutions like Moreland University — enable career changers to become certified teachers without the need for a second bachelor’s degree.
Alternative certification pathways are designed to be efficient and practical, focusing on equipping you with the skills you need to be classroom ready. Many programs also offer clinical learning components where you can gain hands-on teaching experience, making the transition smoother. These programs are often flexible, allowing you to study online while continuing to work in your current job.
Moreland’s TEACH-NOW Teacher Preparation Certificate Program, for example, is 100% online and can be completed in as little as 9 months (including clinical learning). And with embedded certification test prep, a unique global cohort learning model, and ongoing mentorship, TEACH-NOW candidates are not only well-prepared to earn their U.S. teaching license but also thrive in the classroom.
Myth #3: “Teachers Don’t Make Enough Money”
The stereotype of the underpaid teacher is a common one, but it doesn’t tell the full story. While it’s true that teachers’ salaries vary by location, experience, and subject area, the profession often comes with benefits that other careers may lack, such as job stability, pension plans, health insurance, and a more structured work schedule that includes summers off.
Additionally, there are ways for teachers to increase their salaries over time. For example, pursuing advanced certifications, earning a master’s degree, or taking on leadership roles within the school can lead to higher pay. Career changers often find that they can leverage their existing skills to take on specialized roles, such as teaching STEM subjects, which are often in high demand and can come with higher salaries.
The Ultimate Guide to U.S. and International Teacher Salaries, a complimentary resource from Moreland University provides useful insights about educator salaries around the world, career advancement strategies, and more.

Myth #4: “The Classroom Environment is Too Challenging for New Teachers”
Many career changers worry they won’t be able to handle classroom management or that they’ll struggle to connect with students. However, the idea that a classroom is an unmanageable environment is largely a myth. With the right training and preparation, career changers can excel in managing a classroom. In fact, the skills you’ve developed in your previous job — whether it’s managing teams, leading projects, or working with clients — are highly transferable to teaching.
Furthermore, schools understand that new teachers, especially career changers, may need support as they adjust to the classroom. Many schools offer mentorship programs, professional development workshops, and resources to help new teachers thrive. Additionally, certification programs like Moreland’s emphasize practical skills, so by the time you step into your classroom, you’ll feel more confident and prepared.

Myth #5: Becoming a Teacher Takes Too Long
The process of becoming a certified teacher is often much quicker than people think, especially if you already hold a bachelor’s degree in another field. Often, alternative certification programs are designed with flexibility in mind, allowing you to balance coursework with your current job.
With Moreland’s TEACH-NOW Program, for example, you can earn your teaching license in as little as 9 months — 100% online, enabling you to learn from anywhere in the world. This means within a year, you could be well on your way to standing at the front of your own classroom, making a difference in students’ lives!
“[Moreland’s program] is very good because it’s efficient for someone who’s working. You can make sure your classes are on a weekend. You choose whatever time — anytime that’s available for you.”
— Nikiwe Khambule, career changer and International Educator, Moreland TEACH-NOW Program graduate
Myth #6: Career Changers Won’t Fit In
Some career changers fear they won’t fit into the school environment because they didn’t start their careers in education. However, schools increasingly value teachers with diverse backgrounds because they bring fresh perspectives and unique skills to the classroom. Your experience in fields like marketing, engineering, healthcare, or finance can offer students new insights and real-world connections to the material they’re learning.
Moreover, being an outsider to traditional teaching can actually be an advantage, as career changers often bring innovative ideas and approaches to the classroom that can inspire students and colleagues alike.
“Those teachers that come into teaching from a previous background, that real-world application they bring to the lesson plan is so rich and draws so many great connections for our students. So, for those thinking about why teach? I always say, why not? There is so much you get out of this profession beyond just what you get into it. You get so much out of it.”
— Tiffany Fuller, Recruitment and Retention Coordinator at Volusia County Schools
Don’t Let Myths Hold You Back
If you’ve been considering a career change into teaching, don’t let these myths hold you back from pursuing a profession that can be both fulfilling and impactful. Yes, the transition requires effort, but it’s absolutely achievable (and even enjoyable) with the right mindset and resources.
Teaching allows you to shape the next generation, use your skills in new and meaningful ways, and find a renewed sense of purpose. So, if you’ve ever thought about making the switch, now might just be the perfect time to take that leap.
Whether you’re drawn to teaching for the love of learning, a desire to make a difference, or simply to try something new, remember that the journey to becoming a teacher as a career changer is not only possible — it’s also incredibly rewarding.
Interested in learning more about how to transition to a teaching career? Check out Moreland’s flexible certification programs designed with career changers in mind. Apply today (at no cost, in less than 15 minutes), and you’ll typically hear back within 2 business days.