How to Become a Teacher in Oklahoma

Educators in Oklahoma enjoy higher-than-average salaries, and are rewarded handsomely for working in areas of need. With smaller school sizes and an interesting combination of large and small districts, applicants to teach in Oklahoma have advantages in working in this dynamic state.

How to become a teacher in Oklahoma - traditional route for residents

Most education students in Oklahoma follow a traditional route to certification to earn a standard teaching certificate, involving:

• Earning a bachelor’s degree
• Passing the Oklahoma General Education Test
• Completing a teacher preparation course from an accredited institution within the state

How to become a teacher in OK - alternative route for residents

Oklahoma offers several alternative routes to teacher certification for those changing careers or leaving the military. Requirements include:

• Earning a bachelors degree
• Passing the Oklahoma General Education Test
• Supervision and mentoring during first two years of teaching

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

Prospective teachers holding valid licenses in other states are eligible to teach the same subject in Oklahoma. Applicants will need to pass the Oklahoma General Education Test prior to teaching in the classroom.

How do I become a teacher in Oklahoma - necessary exams for residents

All teachers in Oklahoma must pass the Oklahoma General Education Test. Additionally, secondary teachers must pass the Oklahoma Subject Education Test in their desired area of expertise.

What bachelors degree do I need for teaching in Oklahoma?

Specific bachelors degree subjects are not required to teach in Oklahoma, although many teaching students focus their studies on education. Prospective secondary teachers are encouraged to focus their studies in areas of they will be teaching.

What is a teacher preparation program in Oklahoma?

Oklahoma has rigorous standards for teacher preparation. Teaching students must take courses in all areas of education including foundations of teaching and Oklahoma State history. Special focus is paid to math, reading, and writing. In addition, all teaching students must successfully complete a student teaching course.

How do I renew my teacher certification in Oklahoma?

Requirements to renew teacher licenses in Oklahoma are straightforward; all teachers must complete 6 semester hours of advanced teaching skill and theory to renew their teaching license. Substitutions can be made for teachers who have earned National Board Certification or a master’s degree.

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

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

• Certification Examinations for Oklahoma Educators (CEOE)

  This site gives in-depth information on testing within Oklahoma.

• Oklahoma State Department of Education

  The official site of education in Oklahoma, this site has updated information on becoming a teacher in Oklahoma.