How to Become a Teacher in Utah

Individuals who are considering pursuing a teaching career in Utah will find it relatively easy to earn a teacher certificate in Utah, as compared to other states. The Department of Education is eager to attract new teachers, and is therefore willing to work with individuals interested in teaching in Utah to help them complete licensure requirements.

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

The traditional route to teacher certification in Utah includes a teacher preparation program at a state or online institution. To be admitted to these programs, students must already hold a bachelor's degree, and in some cases must have already passed the Praxis I exam. A guide on how to become a teacher in Utah will also mention the Praxis test series, which must be completed in order to earn a teacher certificate in Utah. Potential elementary teachers must pass the Elementary Education: Content Knowledge (EE: CK) and Elementary Education: Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment (EE: CIA) tests. Secondary teachers must pass at least one Praxis II test, in the area they intend to teach in.

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

A student will only need to pass the required exams and a background check if he or she has already earned a bachelor's degree with a major in a field related to their course of study for teaching. They may be exempted from teacher preparation programs.

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

To earn a teaching certificate in Utah when coming from out-of-state, a candidate is required to submit copies of their transcripts, teaching license, Praxis II scores, and verification of teaching experience. Potential teachers must also pass a background check.

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

The State of Utah utilizes the Educational Testing Service to administer their certification exams. Therefore, ETS offers information on how to become a teacher in Utah. All potential educators must pass the Praxis I exam. Secondary teachers must pass subject-specific exams relevant to their teaching interests. If they are interested in earning teacher certification in Utah for more than one subject area, candidates must pass multiple Praxis II exams. Potential primary school teachers must pass the relevant elementary-level exams.

What bachelors degree do I need for teaching in Utah?

To qualify for teaching in Utah, candidates must hold a bachelor's degree. However, although it may be an advantage, it is not required to hold a bachelor's degree in the same subject an individual wishes to teach. Most humanities or social science majors are applicable to a teacher training program.

What is a teacher preparation program in Utah?

In their searches for details about how to become in a teacher in UT, prospective candidates with an interest in teaching in Utah will find there are a number of teacher preparation programs available to them, including through local college campuses and online schools. Students will take courses in education theories and practices. Student teaching or education internships are often a required part of the curriculum.

How do I renew my teacher certification in Utah?

Teachers can usually renew their teaching certification in a manner similar to their initial certification. Most teaching certificates must be renewed every three years, and teachers must prove that they have completed 100 professional development points and 100 points of educator work experience.

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

Information on Utah state teacher licensure can be found at websites such as the following:

• Utah State Office of Education

  For information on how to become a teacher in Utah, potential educators should first visit the Utah State Office of Education website, to find out the exact licensing requirements and for links to the available teacher preparation programs.

• Educator Licensing Online

  Those wondering "how do I become a teacher in Utah?" will likely need to visit the Educator Licensing website for information on how to submit applications or renewals.