Texas teachers are more in demand than ever. And if you have a bachelor’s degree, you may be able to start your teaching career sooner than you think.
We’ll go over how to get started with alternative certification.
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Alternative vs. Standard Teacher Certification
An intern certificate is the special permit you’ll need to start teaching through an alternative certification program.
Steps to Alternative Teacher Certification in Texas
- 1
Make sure you’re eligible.
To qualify for alternative certification, you’ll need to:
- Have a bachelor’s degree. Most alternative certification programs require a GPA of at least 2.5.
- Meet any coursework requirements. For most teaching programs, you’ll need a certain number of college credits in your teaching subject.
- Pass any required tests. You may need to take the Pre-Admission Content Test, or PACT, in order to enroll in a program.
- 2
Decide what you want to teach.
The teaching certificate you earn will depend on the subject and grade level you want to teach.
- 3
Explore alternative teaching programs.
Look for a teaching program that is specifically for alternative certification teacher candidates. You can apply to certificate-only programs or programs that combine a teaching certificate and master’s degree.
Explore Texas teaching programs:
- 4
Apply to teaching programs and enroll.
For some programs, you’ll apply for teaching jobs before you apply to the program itself. If this is the case, you should apply for jobs in a school district that partners with your desired teaching program.
Check with individual teaching programs to make sure you understand their process and where you should apply for jobs.
- 5
Apply for teaching jobs in a Texas public school.
Your teaching program may be able to help you with this step! Your teaching job must be in the same grade level and subject area that you plan to teach once you’re fully certified. (1)
Where should you look for a job? Check out these pages to get started:
- 6
Apply for an intern certificate.
Once you’ve been accepted into a teaching program and secured a job, your program will give you permission to apply for your intern certificate. Remember, this is the permit that allows you to teach while you complete your alternative certification program.
You’ll apply through the Texas Education Agency Login (TEAL) website. Your program staff can help you complete the application! You’ll also need to complete a background check.
You’ll need to pay a fee to receive your intern certificate—but don’t worry, TEACH can help with the cost! Choose a location in Texas to learn more:
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to teach in DFW, San Antonio or Houston?
References
- Becoming a Certified Texas Educator Through an Alternative Certification Program.” Texas Education Agency. https://tea.texas.gov/texas-educators/preparation-and-continuing-education/becoming-a-certified-texas-educator-through-an-alternative-certification-program
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