How to Become a Teacher in Montana

While Montana ranks low in terms of teacher pay, pay increases have been higher than the national average, and in fact, higher than the rate of inflation. Montana also ranks higher in student achievement than its pay ranking might lead some to believe. This is in part due to the committed efforts of Montana teachers, recent federal grants directed toward Indian reservation schools and other underserved populations, and the commitment and involvement of students' families. Montana is a beautiful state full of strong, hardworking people—especially the teachers.

How to become a teacher in Montana – traditional route for residents

The traditional route for those seeking how to become a teacher in Montana entails earning a bachelor's degree. For elementary school teachers, this is usually a bachelor's degree in elementary education, which includes teaching methods. For secondary teachers it means courses in their subject area as well as education courses. In the traditional route, these classes can be taken simultaneously as part of the same degree program.

How to become a teacher in MT – alternative route for residents

For those wondering, "how do I become a teacher in Montana?", the best place to start is by contacting the Montana Office of Public Instruction. The alternative route does require aspiring teachers to take education courses, but they can often teach under a provisional license while they are taking these classes. All applicants have to undergo background checks and file fingerprints with the Montana Department of Justice, then submit a completed application, fee, and official transcripts to the Montana Office of Public Instruction.

How to become a teacher in MT – for out-of-state teacher applicants

Montana accepts the teaching certificates of those from other states looking forward to teaching in Montana. Teachers from other states will have to take the Praxis tests and meet any other requirements that Montana expects, but most of those qualifications are addressed in the state's license.

How do I become a teacher in Montana – necessary exams for residents

Montana requires its teachers to pass the Praxis I and II exams. However, this is only necessary for initial licensure; teachers do not have to take the Praxis again to renew. If a teacher transfers his or her license from another state where the Praxis was not required, they may be required to take it before receiving a teacher certificate in Montana.

What bachelor's degree do I need for teaching in Montana?

Any bachelor degree is sufficient for teaching in Montana, but it must be accompanied by the required education hours or content area courses. Many people take their education and content area courses at the same time, while others return for education instruction after earning a bachelor's degree.

What is a teacher preparation program in Montana?

The Northern Plains Transition to Teaching (NPTT) Program allows individuals with bachelor's degrees to teach while they are taking the classes that will earn them teacher certification in Montana. Teaching in Montana will require completing the coursework, taking the Praxis I and II exams, sending NPTT a recommendation from the school where courses were taken, and finding employment in the Montana public school system.

How do I renew my teacher certification in Montana?

Montana requires its teachers to complete 60 OPI renewal units or college credits in order to renew a standard teacher certificate in Montana.

Where do I go for more information about how to become a teacher in MT?

• Montana Office of Public Instruction

  The Montana Department of Education web site has all the information a teacher needs about education in Montana.

• Montana Teachers Continuing Education

  For teachers who are looking for continuing education opportunities to fulfill their professional development hours.

• Montana Educator Licensure

  This site lists the requirements for different types of teacher certification in Montana.