This paper analyzes the extent to which teaching may be classified as a profession. The major characteristics of a profession are summarized. The occupation of teaching is then examined with reference to the various factors identified as characteristic of a profession in the "classical" sense. It is concluded that, while teaching possesses several of the characteristics of a profession, it falls short on a number of them, particularly those involving autonomy and self-control on the part of the practitioners, depth of commitment and career-orientation, and the accordance of trust, status, and authority by the general public. Ways in which the occupation of teaching may move toward a higher level of professionalization are explored. It is concluded that while teaching is not a profession in the full traditional sense, teaching should be recognized as a distinct form of work, with its own occupational identity and integrity, and efforts should be made to improve it for its own sake. (Author/JD)