Typically an accredited four year college or university that has a teacher education program will also have staff well versed in teacher certification requirements for each state. Even so, the road to teacher certification is not smooth and easy to follow. Here is some basic information to help those wishing to become teachers navigate the path towards teacher certification.
Education Requirements for Teacher Certification
In order to become a teacher, one must complete a teacher education program at an accredited school. Four year colleges and universities that offer teacher programs have worked hard to align their course work to fit state requirements. While some schools offer a better education than others, it may be best to check with the school district to find out which colleges and universities are looked upon with greater favor in order to have a leg-up in the application process.
Non-traditional teacher certification options are becoming more popular, allowing those wishing to switch careers to become teachers to do so without going back to school. These programs are available in various counties all across the United States and each has its own admissions process and requirements. Typically these programs do require some cost from the individual yet provide some security in obtaining a teaching position.
Testing Requirements for Teacher Certification
There are in general two basic groups of tests that teachers must take to qualify for teacher certification. The first group is the Praxis I. The Praxis I is very similar to the SAT and many states are beginning to accept scores from the SAT or GRE in its place. The praxis I should be taken within the first two years of a four year teaching degree program.
The second group of tests is the Praxis II. These tests are specific to the area in which one wishes to teach. While many states require the same test, there are more than one option so it is vital to thoroughly research the state requirements to be sure and take the proper tests. Some states have their own test separate from the Praxis II battery. For more detailed information about these tests and state requirements, visit the ETS website. These tests should be taken at the end of the third year or during the fourth year of a certification degree program but must be passed prior to receiving teacher certification.
Reciprocal Teaching Certification
It is important that if a person wishes to become a teacher in a state other than that which she received her original certification, that she ensure that the states have a reciprocal certification agreement. This basically means that even though the requirements are a little different for each state, the state the teacher wishes to move to will accept her certification without requiring additional testing or classes. Some states, though, may accept a teacher's certification contingent on passing an additional state required test.
One example is that Maryland will accept Pennsylvania certification without any additional requirements yet Florida requires an additional test.
While in general any accredited college or University will provide the proper educational background, this is only part of the requirement for teacher certification. It is important that before fulfilling the additional requirements to become a teacher, one researches state requirements where one wishes to teach so that all the correct tests are taken the first time.
Find out additional information on becoming a teacher including information on receiving an online teaching degree.
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