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.
Teacher Certification Programs for Undergraduate Students
Students seeking initial teacher certification in any K-12th grade area and a bachelor's degree can enroll in one of the university's undergraduate certification degree programs.
Teacher Certification Programs for Those Seeking a Graduate Degree
We offer graduate programs for those seeking both a master’s degree and initial teacher certification in English, social studies, special education, natural sciences, or physical education.
Postbaccalaureate Teacher Certification Options
If you already have a bachelors' degrees and wish to become a certified teacher, you may apply to the university as a non-degree seeker. You will enroll in courses and a professional development sequence that will qualify you for the teacher certification exams.
Professional Certifications
We offer options to become a certified principal, school counselor, reading specialist, superintendent, or school librarian. A graduate degree and teaching experience are required in order to pursue these certifications in Texas.
Out-of-State Certified Educators
If you are a certified educator from out of state seeking to be certified by the State of Texas, you must apply to the Texas Education Agency (TEA) to have your credentials reviewed.
Alternative and Emergency Certifications
These certification programs are NOT offered through the University of Texas at Austin. For information about alternative certifications, please call the Texas Education Agency at (512) 463-9734.
Contacts
Dr. Sharon Evans, Director, Education Services
Dr. Evans oversees Field Experiences, Career Services, and Certification. She serves as a lead liaison with the University, school districts, and education-related entities working with our preservice teachers. She ensures that state-of-the-art career services are available to all College of Education undergraduate students.
Office: SZB 244
Phone: (512) 471-1511
E-mail: dr.sharonevans@austin.utexas.edu
Shannon Hewgley, Certification Officer
Shannon serves as a certification officer for all certification programs at the university. She manages test approvals for certification exams, recommends students for certification, and handles appeals. She also gathers data and prepares reports for outside entities.
Office: SZB 244
Phone: (512) 471-3485
Email: COE-Certification@austin.utexas.edu
© College of Education at the University of Texas at Austin 2019