Ramon Said:

I am Masters in computer science. i am teacher but want to change career. is it possible to go in IT industry?

We Answered:

It's definitely possible. You're still young enough - and have a good reason why you're somewhat late into the field. I wouldn't give it a second thought.

As to what courses you should take to update your knowledge - that really depends what specific field you want to go into ... if programming, it depends on which language ...

Stephen Said:

How would a math teacher change careers to the engineering field?

We Answered:

It sounds like you have a lot of the prerequisites taken care of already, and a degree in electrical or mechanical engineering probably wouldn't take more than about two years. If you have a local college I would suggest calling their admissions office to see what their policy is on transfer students. You might only need to take the actual engineering courses, and transfer the math and business courses to take care of their "core" requirements. Most of the first two years of engineering is math and science anyways. Another option is to take a specific class, such as process controls, and then attempt to get hired as a specialist. With your background this is possible, especially in process controls. The class will be taught through the chemical engineering department, but it's all math and programming. You might be able to get an internship with those credentials. Good luck.

Vickie Said:

What other jobs can a teacher do if she wants to change careers?

We Answered:

Anything. Remember in college,you took a lot of different subjects: Maths, Sciences, Literature, pobably something or other in Business or Psychology. Well, the reason for a liberal arts education is to generally teach you to think critically and to communicate. Those abilities haven't gone away from you. Because of that, most people today end up working in fields unrelated to their undergraduate major. You just want to use your ability to think and to communicate in a different subject.

You are a college graduate. That puts you int he top 5th of Americans. Use your intelligence somewhere else. If you're looking for something fast and exciting, try sales. Your educational training could find you a job in Human Resources. If you're looking to kick back and relax a little look for a job in a library or museum. Government jobs aren't a bad idea. (Department of Education?)

But, as an educator also, I understand wanting to get out. The work environment is getting pretty nasty. Principals are almost always failed teachers, who couldn't wait to get their 1 year certificate to get out of the classroom. They're being bossed around by politicians who don't know a thing about how to educate kids. Government tests have spawned curriculums that are stagnant and uninspiring at best, and often outright psychologically harmful.

Apply for a lot of different job openings. Even if you're afraid you're not qualified for it. Many companies hire people who aren't qualified for a job, and train them later. You're intelligent, so you may as well get a job that inspires you, and where you earn the respect you deserve.

If you really want to, go back for a Ph.D. and become a college professor... or do a JD (law), or MBA (business) program. The ball's in your court.

Bryan Said:

Im 23, unemployed for 18mth and want to change Careers can i?

We Answered:

If you're going to change careers, now is the time. You're not working anyway, and you're young with few responsibilities. Child care isn't going to make much money for you, but the sporadic nature of construction probably doesn't average out much better. Several of my friends' husbands are in that field and even when we're not in a recession, they don't work on a regular basis.

Perhaps you could start out in a nursery school where a degree isn't necessary, and work on a teaching degree starting at a community college then transferring. Even if it takes you 10 years to do it, you'll have a future. Don't let gender determine your destiny. If you want to work with kids, go for it.

Carrie Said:

I am a special ed teacher and have been thinking of a career change - what could I do!?

We Answered:

As it is now the recent degrees in Spec Ed, you are already qualified to teach reg. ed. If the degree is not so recent you may still be 3-12 credits away from another degree. When I am finished with my spec. ed degree next year I will be 6 credits away from a psychology major, so I could counsel and I will also be able to teach reg. ed!