Getting certified to teach through a high-quality program leads to more opportunity, higher pay and greater job satisfaction. If you’re looking for an online program, here’s how to find the right one.
Author: Brooke Selg
Deciding to become a teacher is one of the most important decisions you'll ever make, and finding the right teacher preparation program is a crucial step. Whether you’re already working in education or have never taught before, getting certified from a high-quality program comes with a lot of benefits, from higher pay to feeling more prepared and confident in the classroom. As a working adult, you may find online programs especially appealing, as they offer the flexibility and convenience you need to balance your busy schedule.
It's an exciting journey, and you don't want to waste your time and money on a low-quality program. You want a program that gives you the tools and experience you need to succeed in the classroom.
We've done the research for you, so you don't have to guess what to look for. Here's how to choose a high-quality online teacher prep program in Texas and ensure you're on the right path to becoming the educator you've always wanted to be.
Get the support you need to become a certified teacher—free advising, scholarships, test prep, fee reimbursements and more. All at no cost to you. Learn more at Teach Houston: Getting Certified Pays.
We know life is busy. If you're a working adult, it's not always realistic to quit your job and decide to go to school full-time. You've got family commitments, a full-time job, and other responsibilities that require your time and attention. Thankfully, online teacher preparation programs offer the flexibility to work toward becoming a teacher without giving up a paycheck.
A high quality program should include in-person learning at some point. That’s the best way to make sure you’re ready to lead a classroom! If you're already working in schools, your current job may fulfill this requirement.
Depending on your current situation, make sure to look for both “online” and “hybrid” programs, and ask the program staff about the type and amount of in-person learning you’ll need to do.
There are a few pathways to becoming a teacher in Texas, and the right one for you depends on your educational background. Here's what you need to know.
If you don't already have a bachelor's degree, a traditional, four-year teaching program might be the best route. This program will allow you to earn your teaching degree and certification before leading your classroom. You'll take courses (which can be done online or in-person, depending on the program) and finish with an internship or student teaching experience to get more hands-on practice in a classroom.
This path usually takes about four years, but it could be shorter if you already have some college credit. If you're entering the teaching profession from a different field, like cosmetology, healthcare or auto repair, you might not need a degree to start teaching.
Check job listings for available teaching positions in your area of expertise, or reach out to local principals to learn about opportunities for transitioning into teaching.
If you already have a bachelor's degree, you have more options. You can pursue alternative certification through a post-baccalaureate or certificate-only program, allowing you to earn your teaching certification while working in your own classroom. This path is particularly attractive for career changers, as it lets you start earning a salary immediately while gaining classroom experience.
Alternative certification is a great option if you have previous experience in education or the subject you want to teach, such as math or chemistry. These programs are designed to provide you with the necessary teaching skills without starting from scratch.
The TEACH Alternative Certification Guide has everything you need to know! Get details about Texas eligibility requirements, steps to get started and application tools, all in one place.
There are a lot of great online teacher prep programs out there, but unfortunately, not all of them are of high quality. Some programs promise a lot but fall short when it comes to preparing you for the classroom. Here are a few red flags to look out for when choosing your program:
So, what exactly should you look for in a high-quality online teacher prep program? The Texas Education Agency provides some helpful guidelines on what makes a program stand out. Here are some key characteristics you'll want to look for in a teaching program:
Attending a high-quality online program pays off in more ways than one. Here are some of the key benefits:
Now that you know what to look for in a program, check out our Program Explorer. All of the programs we featured there are accredited, so you can be sure you're choosing a quality option that will set you up for success. You'll also find financial aid resources in our Financial Aid Explorer, where we've gathered scholarships, grants and other funding options just for future teachers.
Choosing the right teacher prep program is a big decision, but with the right guidance, you can feel confident in your choice. Let TEACH support you every step of the way. No stress, no wasted time, so you can focus on what matters—preparing for the classroom.
Not necessarily. Tuition costs vary for many reasons, including the program's reputation or brand. However, you can find a high-quality program that fits your budget. What truly matters is the quality of the program itself—ensuring you're well-prepared for the classroom without breaking the bank.
It's never too late to make a difference in the classroom. If you have a degree or relevant experience, you may already be prepared to transition into teaching. As an older adult, you have better time management skills to help you juggle your responsibilities and more life experience to help you manage a classroom.
Check the program's website for accreditation information. Accreditation ensures the program meets state and federal standards, and you can apply for financial aid if needed. USA Today has more tips and tricks for making sure an online school is legit.
For an easy reference, explore the Texas Education Agency’s map of all accredited teacher prep programs in Texas.
It depends on your previous education. It could take about four years if you don't have any college credit yet. You could finish in one to two years if you already have a degree.
You need a valid teaching certificate to have a permanent teaching position in K-12 public schools. That said, some schools may hire teachers who are not yet certified if there's a high need for teachers in that subject. Even in those positions, you'll need to earn your certificate eventually, and you'll have many more job options with a certification.
TEACH is here to help! We offer free coaching to help you explore your options and find the best pathway based on your unique situation. With 1-on-1 and group advising, we’ve got flexible options to fit your life. Get more details here.
Some online programs allow you to earn an "online teacher" certificate (not to be confused with certification). Do your homework to find out exactly what jobs accept this. Most schools still require you to have a degree and state teacher certification even if you teach entirely online.
A key benefit of a high-quality online teaching program is its established partnerships with local schools and districts. If your program is already partnered with a school, they’re more likely to hire graduates when positions are available.