Based on historical and comparative pedagogical analysis, the article presents the experience of the formation and development of professional teacher education in Germany, Austria, France, England and the USA. The article shows the specifics and general problems associated with the activities of educational institutions involved in teacher training in these countries in various historical periods, up to the present day. The main points of discussion that accompanied the process of teacher education development have been identified, namely: the ratio of highly specialized and general pedagogical training.; practice-oriented approach and academization of teaching content and methods; the need for teachers to receive higher education and the involvement of universities in this process. The importance of developing the personal qualities of a future teacher is noted, as well as the focus on mandatory internship or internship at school and continuous professional development after graduation.