Educator Certification

The University of Texas at Austin offers state and Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) approved programs to get students certified and ready for the classroom. Our programs prepare students to become early childhood, elementary, middle, and high school teachers. The College of Education works with students from across campus so that they can become certified classroom teachers. We also have professional certification programs that prepare students for administrative and supporting roles in schools.

Our teacher certification programs are available for potential teachers at all stages of their careers. We offer paths to certification for undergraduates, postbaccalaureates, graduate students, and working professionals.

Professional Development Sequence for Teaching Certification

In addition to completing coursework in your teacher certification program, you must apply to the Professional Development Sequence (PDS). This is a teacher preparation program that prepares you for the classroom through fieldwork, observations, and student teaching.

The PDS provides you with plenty of classroom experience. You will work closely with mentors who will guide you in developing teaching skills. Our programs give you ample experience in classroom settings, preparing you to be a leader in school settings.

Our programs also prepare you to take the exams required for teacher certification in Texas. The passing rate for our graduates typically exceeds 95%.

University Recommendation

Students who have successfully completed all of the steps to become a teacher ​and the certification requirements will be recommended to the Texas Education Agency (TEA) for certification by our certification officer. Be sure to reference the Certification Checklist on our wiki for additional information.