HOW TO BECOME A TEACHER IN TEXAS

What are the basic requirements for becoming a teacher in Texas?

• You must have a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university. Texas institutions do not offer a degree in education. Every teacher must have an academic major, as well as teacher training courses. The only exemption from the degree requirement is for individuals seeking Career and Technology certification to teach certain courses, such as welding or computer-aided drafting.

• You must complete teacher training through an approved program. These programs are offered through colleges and universities, school districts, regional service centers, community colleges, and other entities.

• You must successfully complete the appropriate teacher certification tests for the subject and grade level you wish to teach. 

How do you choose the teacher training program that is best for you?

• Programs for those who do not yet have a college degree: Colleges and universities offer programs for training teachers. You will receive a degree in an academic major, as well as the training you would need to be an effective teacher.

• Programs for those who already have a college degree (post-baccalaureate programs): These programs, which include accelerated routes into teaching, offer training on how to be an effective teacher, as well as additional courses you might need in the subject area you wish to teach. Many of these programs can be completed in a year, during which time you may have a paid teaching position in a public school classroom. 

If I am certified in another state or country, how do I become certified in Texas?

• Teachers from other states or countries who hold acceptable credentials from their home state or country can gain certification in Texas by passing the appropriate Texas certification tests.

• Some out-of-state teachers can gain certification in Texas based on the certification tests they took in another state, if SBEC has found those tests to be similar to and at least as rigorous as equivalent Texas tests. SBEC began the process of reviewing other state's tests in fall 2001. 

CERTIFICATION INFORMATION

Click the link below for information from the Texas Education Agency about how to become a teacher in Texas and much more.

Click Here TEA Certification Information