How to Become a Teacher in North Dakota

North Dakota values its teachers, and although the state population is sparse, educators enjoy some of the highest standards of living in the US. The numerous alternative routes to certificate are encouraged in North Dakota, and the state offers extensive professional development opportunities for teachers. All aspiring teachers in North Dakota must earn a teaching certificate, and are encouraged to take advantage of professional education opportunities within state institutions.

How to become a teacher in North Dakota – traditional route for residents

Prospective educators who are interested in pursuing an initial teaching license through traditional methods are required to earn the following:

• Complete a bachelor’s degree program from a state-accredited institution
• Complete a teacher preparation program which includes at least 10 weeks of student teaching, from a state-approved college or university
• Pass the Praxis I exam and the Praxis II exam for specific subjects

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

North Dakota offers alternative routes to certification for teachers who are interested in teaching in shortage areas, which are currently all areas except elementary and physical education. Interested applicants must:

• Earn a Bachelor degree
• Pass the Praxis I exam
• Enroll in a teacher preparation program

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

North Dakota has reciprocal agreements with many other states, recognizing their teaching licensing programs. Out-of-state teachers who hold current, valid teaching certificates can apply for following certificates:

• Out of state reciprocal license: educator agrees to fulfill all ND requirements within 2 years of licensing.
• Out of state highly qualified license: applicant has met all ND requirements and is considered highly qualified in licensing state
• Initial license: educator has earned a teaching credential from out-of-state institution but has no teaching experience

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

All aspiring and out-of-state teachers applying to teach in North Dakota must pass the Praxis I exam. At this time, North Dakota does not require applicants for the initial certificate to pass the Praxis II, although a passing score is required for the regular certificate.

What bachelor’s degree do I need for teaching in North Dakota?

As long as a bachelor degree is earned from a state or regionally-approved program, North Dakota does not specify required majors. However, students are required to take one course in North Dakota history and one course in Native American studies. In addition, students who aspire to be teachers are encouraged to major in education or earn a degree that matches the area they plan on teaching in.

What is a teacher preparation program in North Dakota?

Teachers in North Dakota must complete a teacher preparation program to teach in North Dakota. Programs typically include the following:

• Student teaching (at least 10 weeks)
• Teaching fundamentals courses
• Assessment
• North Dakota history
• Native American studies

How do I renew my teacher certification in North Dakota?

The initial teacher license cannot be renewed. Teachers must complete the requirements for a regular license, which is valid for 5 years. In order to earn the regular license, teachers must:

• Teach full-time for at least 18 months
• Be under contract with a public school district for at least 30 days
• Complete 4 semester hours of professional education

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

The following websites have additional information about how to become a teacher in North Dakota:

• North Dakota Education Standards and Practices Board

  This official site outlines essential teacher certification processes and requirements in North Dakota.

• North Dakota Education Association

  This organization of North Dakota teachers provides a platform for teachers and other educators to lobby for education issues.