Alternative teacher certification programs, also known as non-traditional routes to certification, allow individuals without a background in education to become certified teachers. This certification method helps address teacher shortages in certain subjects and brings real-world experience and expertise into the classroom.
Unlike traditional teacher education programs, which often require a degree in education, alternative routes offer a more flexible pathway, making it possible for career changers, recent graduates, and professionals from various fields to transition into teaching.
People pursue alternative teacher certification programs for many reasons, such as wanting to make a career change without the need for additional years of schooling or the urgency to address teacher shortages in some subjects or geographic locations.
In this guide, we’ll share extensive information on alternative teacher certification programs, including the different types available, their benefits and challenges, and the steps to becoming a certified teacher through these alternative pathways.
What Is an Alternative Teacher Program?
Alternative teacher certification programs (ACPs) are designed to provide a non-traditional route to becoming a certified teacher.
These programs were initially introduced in the United States as a response to a critical nationwide teacher shortage, particularly in high-need areas and subjects like STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) and special education.
They offer a streamlined pathway for individuals with bachelor’s degrees in a field other than education to transition into teaching.
The traditional route to becoming a teacher involves completing a four-year undergraduate degree in education, followed by a period of student teaching and state certification exams. This pathway is thorough but time-consuming and costly.
On the other hand, alternative certification programs are often more streamined and less expensive. These programs can be completed in a shorter time frame, sometimes less than a year. For example, the Teachers of Tomorrow alternative certification programs can have you teaching in as little as three months.
Alternative certification programs offer flexible schedules that allow candidates to work while completing their certification. Additionally, many programs provide on-the-job training, enabling aspiring teachers to earn a salary while they learn.
Depending on your state, your alternative teaching certificate might be referred to as an alternative license, residency license, intern certificate, or shortage area permit.
Each state has its own requirements and terminology. Still, the goal remains the same: to provide a pathway to certification that meets the specific needs of the educational system and the individuals seeking to enter the teaching profession.
Individuals who can most benefit from alternative teacher programs include:
- Aspiring teachers: Individuals pursuing a teaching career after completing a degree in another field can benefit from alternative certification programs. ACPs provide the necessary training and credentials without the need to return to school for a second degree in education.
- Career changers: Professionals looking to switch careers will find alternative certification programs particularly appealing. These programs allow them to transition into teaching more quickly and affordably than traditional routes. They can also continue with their job as they pursue certification, as ACPs are self-paced and flexible.
- Experienced educators: Current educators seeking to move into a different subject area or grade level can also take advantage of alternative certification programs. These programs offer the flexibility and specialized training needed to meet the requirements for new teaching positions.
Traditional vs. Alternative Route to Becoming a Teacher
Both traditional and alternative certifications are viable routes to becoming a teacher. However, there are reasons why individuals choose one over the other.
Let’s compare the two. First, to become a teacher through traditional certification, you must go through the following steps:
- Earn a bachelor’s degree in education: This involves four years of undergraduate study in education, focusing on both general education courses and specialized training in a particular subject or age group.
- Complete student teaching: During the final year of the degree program, engage in a supervised teaching experience, usually lasting one semester, to gain real-world classroom experience.students
- Pass state certification exams: After completing the degree and student teaching, graduates must pass state-mandated exams to demonstrate their competency in both subject matter and teaching skills.
- Apply for state certification: After obtaining the degree and exam results, you can apply for a teaching certificate or license in their state.
To become a certified teacher through alternative certification, these are the steps:
- Hold a bachelor’s degree: You must have a bachelor’s degree, but it does not need to be in education.
- Complete an alternative certification program: The programs can include online coursework, in-person classes, and intensive workshops to cover essential teaching skills and knowledge.
- Student teaching: Many alternative programs require candidates to teach under supervision while completing their coursework, allowing them to earn a salary and gain experience simultaneously.
- Pass state certification exams: Similar to the traditional route, candidates must pass state exams to obtain certification.
- Apply for state certification: After fulfilling program requirements and passing exams, candidates apply for their teaching license.
The table below shows a comparison of the time frame and the benefits of both certification pathways.
| Traditional Route | Alternative Certification | |
| Timeframe | Four to five years | In less than two years and as little as weeks |
| Merits |
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How to Earn a Teaching Credential?
Having a teaching certificate shows you’re qualified to teach in U.S. public schools. It serves as the official recognition of your qualifications to teach.
Without a teaching certificate, teachers’ opportunities are quite limited. They are often restricted to private schools, substitute teaching, or instructional aide positions. Even in these roles, candidates with a certificate are generally preferred over those without one.
There are several pathways to earning a teaching certificate, and the requirements can vary significantly from state to state. Here are the common methods:
- Traditional teacher education programs
- Alternative certification programs
- Post-baccalaureate or master’s degree programs
- Teach for America and similar non-profit programs
Each state has its own specific requirements for teaching certification. These often include:
- Additional coursework: Some states may require extra coursework in special education or English as a second language (ESL).
- Background checks: All states require a criminal background check and fingerprinting.
- Continued education: Some states mandate ongoing professional development and continuing education to maintain certification.
NOTE: As an aspiring educator, you should research the specific certification requirements for the state where you plan to teach to ensure you meet all necessary criteria.
Requirements for Alternative Teacher Programs
The alternative route to teacher certification requires candidates to meet specific criteria to ensure they are prepared to enter the classroom.
Depending on the state, the requirements may vary slightly, but prospective teachers must fulfill the set standards.
Let’s look at the common requirements across all states.
1. Get a Bachelor’s Degree
Earning a bachelor’s degree is the first step toward becoming a certified teacher through an alternative teacher certification program. This degree typically takes about four years of full-time study to complete, though the timeframe can vary based on the institution and the student’s course load.
You can choose from a variety of bachelor’s degree programs, depending on the subject or grade level you wish to teach.
For example:
- Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in English: Ideal for those interested in teaching English or Language Arts.
- Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in mathematics: Suitable for aspiring middle or high school teachers.
- Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in history: Perfect for those planning to teach social studies or history.
- Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in biology: Great for future science teachers, particularly in biology.
- Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in elementary education: Specifically designed for those who want to teach at the elementary school level.
Ensure your bachelor’s degree program includes a sufficient number of college credits in the subject you plan to teach. Some alternative certification programs require candidates to demonstrate subject matter competency, which can be achieved through coursework.
For instance, if you wish to become a high school math teacher, you might pursue a B.S. in Mathematics. To meet the requirements of most alternative certification programs, you would need to complete a significant number of credits in math courses. This includes classes like calculus, algebra, statistics, and possibly more advanced topics such as differential equations or linear algebra.
To meet the requirements, ensure your degree plan includes foundational courses like Calculus I, II, and III, and take additional courses in abstract algebra, geometry, and statistics.
Some programs offer elective courses in education theory and practice, which can be beneficial.
Selecting and completing the necessary coursework within your bachelor’s degree program prepares you to meet alternative teacher certification programs’ subject matter competency requirements and helps you pass any required subject-specific exams.
2. Pass Required Tests
After obtaining a bachelor’s degree, the next step in the alternative teacher certification process is passing the required tests. These exams assess your knowledge and skills in your teaching subject and pedagogy.
The Praxis Series exams are widely used across many states. They include the Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators, which tests basic skills in reading, writing, and mathematics, and Praxis Subject Assessments, which evaluate knowledge in specific subjects and teaching skills.
Some states have their own certification exams. For example:
- Florida Teacher Certification Examinations (FTCE): Required for teachers in Florida.
- Michigan Test for Teacher Certification (MTTC): This test is used in Michigan to assess competency in various subjects and grade levels.
The required tests depend on the subject or grade level you wish to teach. For instance, if you’re in Florida, you must pass the FTCE Subject Area Exams for each subject you wish to teach, such as Mathematics 6-12, Biology 6-12, or Elementary Education K-6.
Passing these exams requires thorough preparation. You must understand the format, content, and requirements of each test you need to take. Use various study materials, including textbooks, online resources, and study guides.
If you need extra support, consider enrolling in test preparation courses or hiring a tutor. For example, a platform like The Learning Liaisons offers practice tests, access to study groups, and one-on-one coaching to help you pass state certification exams.
3. Choose Your Subject
Selecting the subject you wish to teach will determine which certification you must pursue and the specific requirements you’ll need to meet. Your chosen subject and grade level will also influence the type of training and exams required for certification.
Each subject area, such as mathematics, science, English, or social studies, has its own certification requirements. You will need to demonstrate proficiency in your chosen subject through coursework and exams.
Teaching certifications are often divided into grade-level categories, such as elementary (K-6), middle school (6-8), and high school (9-12). Your grade level will determine the specific certification tests and training programs you need to complete.
For example, if you’re an aspiring elementary school teacher (K-6), you will pursue a general elementary education certificate. As elementary teachers often teach all subjects, you’ll need to pass exams covering a broad range of subjects, including reading, writing, mathematics, science, and social studies.
On the other hand, if you aspire to be a middle school science teacher (6-8), you’ll need a subject-specific certification—in this case, a middle school science certificate. You must demonstrate proficiency in general science concepts appropriate for middle school students, such as biology, chemistry, physics, and earth science.
4. Apply to a Teaching Program
Once you have chosen your subject and grade level, the next step is to apply to a teaching program that offers alternative certification pathways. These programs are specifically designed to help individuals transition into teaching from other careers or academic backgrounds.
Research programs accredited and recognized by your state’s education department to ensure they meet all certification requirements.
Ensure you meet the program’s prerequisites, which may include meeting GPA requirements and passing a background check. Some programs may require you to have completed certain coursework in your chosen subject area.
Some alternative certification programs require you to secure a teaching position before you apply. These programs often partner with school districts facing teacher shortages and help place candidates in classrooms.
Explore financial aid options, scholarships, and grants available for alternative certification candidates. Some programs offer stipends or reduced tuition in exchange for teaching in high-need areas.
5. Apply for Teaching Jobs
Once you have completed your alternative certification program, the next step is to apply for teaching jobs. Some programs offer assistance with job placement, but it’s important to verify this support with the program you choose.
Prepare a resume highlighting your education and a compelling cover letter explaining your motivation to become a teacher and your teaching philosophy. Have a list of professional references ready, including supervisors from your certification program, mentors, and previous employers.
You can apply for teaching jobs in the following places:
- School district websites
- Job Boards like Teach.org, EdJoin.org, and SchoolSpring.com.
- State Education Department websites often have job boards or links to district job postings.
- Professional network, including contacts from your certification program, mentors, and peers.
Research the schools and districts you are interested in to understand their educational philosophy, student demographics, and community involvement.
Schools often have a higher demand for teachers in certain subjects, such as special education, STEM, ESL (English as a Second Language), and bilingual education. Some rural or urban districts may also have a higher need for teachers and offer incentives for those willing to work in these locations.
You may find a job more quickly if you are qualified to teach in a critical need or shortage area. Some districts even offer signing bonuses, loan forgiveness, and higher salaries for teachers in high-need areas.
6. Apply for Alternative Teacher Certification
After securing a teaching position, the next step is to apply for your official alternative teaching certificate from your state’s education department. This certification will allow you to teach legally in your assigned classroom and is a crucial step in your journey as an educator.
Each state has its application process for alternative teacher certification. Familiarize yourself with your state’s specific steps, fees, and timelines. You can find all the details on your state’s education department website.
If you are required to apply on your own, complete the application accurately and double-check for any errors or missing information before submission.
After submitting your application, wait for processing. Once your application is approved, you will receive your official alternative teaching certificate.
Cost of Alternative Teacher Programs
The cost of alternative teacher certification programs varies depending on the institution, the state, and the specific pathway chosen. Prospective teachers should understand these costs and how they compare to traditional certification routes and other alternative certification providers.
Teachers of Tomorrow program fees range from $4200 to $6,000, depending on the specific certification and state requirements. The payment plans are flexible and easy to manage. You pay an enrollment fee of $299, which can be paid in three monthly installments of $115.
The enrollment fee gives you access to all initial training resources. The rest of the amount, $4200, is paid in monthly installments of $450 when you start teaching.
WGU also offers online teacher certification programs. Depending on the program length and pace of completion, they cost between $3,975 and $7,000.
Teach Away’s TEACH-NOW program costs approximately $6,000 to $7,000 for a nine-month certification program.
Teachers of Tomorrow programs provide comprehensive training without the high tuition fees associated with some university-based programs. The alternative teacher certifications are also designed to accommodate working professionals, offering online coursework and flexible scheduling.
Teachers of Tomorrow programs include mentorship and job placement assistance, helping you transition smoothly into your teaching career.
Teacher Shortage Areas
Some subjects and states experience higher demand for teachers, which makes these areas less competitive and offers greater employment opportunities.
Areas experiencing teacher shortages include:
- STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics): STEM fields are critical for developing future innovators and problem-solvers. Rapid technological advancements and the growing emphasis on STEM education have outpaced the supply of qualified teachers, leading to significant shortages.
- Special education: Special education teachers work with students with disabilities, providing tailored instruction and support to meet individual needs. The growing recognition of the importance of special education and the diverse needs of students with disabilities have increased the demand for specialized teachers.
- Foreign language: Foreign language teachers instruct students in languages other than English. As globalization continues, the demand for multilingual individuals has risen, creating a need for qualified foreign language teachers.
- English as a Second Language (ESL): ESL teachers help non-native English speakers improve their language skills, facilitating their integration into English-speaking environments.
Several states are experiencing significant teacher shortages across various subjects due to population growth and other factors, making them prime locations for aspiring teachers. These include:
- Nevada
- Utah
- Arizona
- California
- Florida
- Alaska
- Idaho
- Ohio
- Oregon
- Alabama
- Mississippi
Teaching in shortage areas can offer more job opportunities and possibly quicker employment.
States and districts with high teacher shortages also may offer financial incentives to attract teachers.
Getting a Teacher Certification Online
Online teacher certification programs are flexible and cost-effective, making them an attractive alternative to traditional, in-person pathways.
They typically include the same coursework as in-person programs, covering essential teaching methods, classroom management, educational psychology, and subject-specific instruction.
The courses are delivered through video lectures, readings, interactive discussions, and assignments. Many programs also offer virtual simulations and online collaboration tools.
Whether you choose an online or in-person program, research and ensure the program meets your state’s certification requirements.
Teachers of Tomorrow is a nationally accredited online certification program. They offer comprehensive training programs that cover essential teaching skills and knowledge and are tailored to meet state-specific requirements.
You can study at your own pace and access coursework from anywhere, making it ideal for those balancing other commitments. Take advantage of the flexibility, affordability, and support to start your teaching career confidently today.
