most states require secondary teachers, including English teachers, to obtain a bachelor's degree. There are two primary degree options to become an English teacher - a Bachelor of Science in Elementary or Secondary Education with an English concentration, or a Bachelor of Arts in English with an education concentration. A master's degree is required by some states and, in some instances, having a master's degree can help you to meet education requirements if you have a bachelor's degree in only English or literature. With any degree program, you'll study education basics and complete a teaching practicum inside a classroom