Are you in a different field and want to transition into education? An alternative teacher certification program can get you there quickly.
If you're currently working full-time in another profession but want to become a teacher, many states accept these alternative programs.
Best of all, many accredited programs are available online so you can earn your certification without putting the rest of your life on hold.
Before you enroll in a program, check with your state education board to make sure the program is accepted in your state.
Top Online Teacher Certification Programs
Keep reading for details on some of the best teacher certification programs available online.
1. American Board
American Board offers a teacher certification program that's self-paced and entirely online so you can study without quitting your job.
The platform offers several certification programs available depending on your subject-matter expertise and your state.
These programs are all on-demand so you can start at any time and access your coursework at your convenience.
The total cost for each program is $1,900, although you might wish to gain certification in more than one subject. Payment plans are also available.
2. Eastern New Mexico University
{Eastern New Mexico University is an accredited public university|https://bestaccreditedcolleges.org/articles/careers-and-education/is-eastern-new-mexico-university-accredited.html] in Portales, NM.
The university has a 21-credit hour program that can lead to K to grade 8 elementary education licensure in New Mexico.
The program is 100% online, and all coursework can be applied towards a master's degree if you decide to further your education.
Asynchronous classes allow you to complete your coursework on your own time rather than having to rearrange your schedule.
Tuition starts at $303 per credit hour for all online students regardless of residency. Scholarships and financial aid are available.
3. Moreland University
Moreland University has a teacher preparation certificate program that will get you ready to be a teacher online from anywhere in the world.
The program has monthly start dates and takes nine months to complete with synchronous weekly classes and asynchronous coursework.
The final 12 weeks of the program include a rigorous teaching practicum at a school in your local area to fully prepare you for licensure.
Tuition starts at $6,500. Although there is no financial aid available, there are affordable payment plans to best suit your budget.
4. Purdue Global
Purdue Global offers several online teacher certification options that prepare you for licensure in specific states.
With Purdue's Classroom Pathways Bundle and American Board Plus Program, you're ready to pursue licensure in the following states:
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- Florida
- Idaho
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- New Hampshire
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Pennsylvania
- South Carolina
- Tennessee
- Utah
- Wisconsin
The program prepares you to take the American Board exams to qualify for state licensure in those states.
Tuition starts at $420 per credit hour regardless of state residency. Scholarships and financial aid are available for all qualifying students.
5. TeacherReady
TeacherReady offers a certification program that you can complete in as little as a year of online study.
All you need is a bachelor's degree, preferably in education, to be eligible for this certification program, which is approved for licensure in the state of Florida.
If you live in any other state, check with your state board of education to make sure the program meets your state's requirements.
Program tuition starts at $5,400 plus fees. Scholarships are available for service members, as well as low-interest loans and payment plans.
6. Texas A&M Commerce
Texas A&M Commerce has an online alternative teacher certification program that you can complete in as little as 1.5 to two years.
This 100% online program includes 18 credit hours that can be applied towards a master's degree if you choose to continue your education.
The program fulfills the certification and licensure requirements in Texas, although some school districts also require the ESL exam.
Tuition starts at $758 per credit hour for Texas residents or $1,166 per credit hour for out-of-state students. Financial aid is available.
7. University of South Dakota
The University of South Dakota offers an online graduate certificate for alternative teacher certification that you can earn on your terms.
The program is designed for professionals who have a bachelor's degree in a non-education field and want to transition into teaching.
Upon graduation, you'll have a stand-alone credential that meets the education requirements for licensure in South Dakota.
Tuition starts at $470.45 for South Dakota students or $709.35 for out-of-state students, with financial aid available if you qualify.
FAQs about Online Teacher Certification Programs
Read on for answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about online teacher certification programs.
Can You Gain Teaching Certification Entirely Online?
Absolutely! Many accredited programs allow you to earn teaching certification entirely online.
However, keep in mind that student teaching hours, typically required for licensure, must be completed in person.
Can You Get Certified to Teach without a Degree in Education?
Many states allow professionals with demonstrated field experience to become teachers through alternative teacher certification.
These programs allow people without education degrees to quickly learn the skills they need to work in education.
What Certification Do You Need to Become a Teacher?
All states require teachers to be licensed. You might be able to work in a private institution without a license, but these positions are rare.
The licensure requirements vary from state to state, so make sure you check the requirements for the state education board where you live.
Find the Right School for Teacher Certification Today
If you're interested in transitioning into a teaching career, an online alternative teacher certification program could get you there.
