Do you need a masters to become a teacher?

Degree requirements for teachers vary by state, with some states requiring all middle school and high school teachers to hold a master's degree, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. All states do require teachers to hold a minimum of a bachelor's degree.

While not requiring a master's degree, some states may offer higher compensation levels for teachers who hold advanced degrees, according to Teach.com. Teacher's with master's degrees may also have access to greater advancement in the teaching profession than those holding only a bachelor's degree, and they are likely to be more competitive in the teaching job market.