Want to become a teacher in the great state of Ohio? If so, you have come to the right place. Below you will find a short article that lists the steps to becoming a teacher in Ohio.

Step 1: Complete an Approved Teacher Preparation Program

To teach in the U.S., educators must hold at least an undergraduate degree. The state of Ohio also requires students to complete a state-approved teacher education program to receive certification. In Ohio, each state-approved teacher education program has its own curriculum and courses, but most curricula subject mastery and pedagogical theory and practice.

Educator preparation programs at accredited colleges or universities prepare students to become educators through a rigorous curriculum as well as practical field experiences. Curriculum most commonly emphasizes foundational knowledge and skills, pedagogy, and educational technology. Also, the curriculum should prepare students to research, create, and implement learning experiences in their field of study. Practical field experiences allow candidates to leverage what they have learned in a classroom setting via field observations and student teaching. Teacher preparation programs have to be sanctioned by the Ohio Department of Education. Use the Ohio Department of Education’s Education Program Finder to see a list of approved teacher education programs in Ohio. 

Step 2: Complete the Required Exams

Ohio does not require a foundational skills test for student teaching or certification but does require an Ohio Assessment for Educators (OAE) pedagogy assessment. Ohio also requires the appropriate OAE Content Assessment or Praxis Subject Assessment for the area of licensure. If you already possess a teaching credential from another state, you can earn your Ohio teaching licensure via interstate reciprocity. The state of Ohio maintains a four-tiered licensing program:

• The state gives the 4-year Resident Educator License to educators who are recent graduates of an in-state accredited teacher education program.
• The state gives the 4-year Alternative Resident License to people pursuing an alternative certification.

Once you complete one of the 4-year resident programs is completed successfully, the educator obtains a Professional Educator License.

• The Senior Professional Educator License is given to educators who have completed a mater’s degree or above, taught effectively for 9 years, and completed a Master Teacher Portfolio.
• The Lead Professional Educator License is given to educators who exceeded requirements for a senior license and have earned a Teacher Leader Endorsement.

National Board Certification can be substituted for the endorsement and the portfolio. Other license types are available for teachers educated and/or licensed out-of-state, and for different situations. Find out more about earning your Ohio teaching credential through the Ohio Department of Education Office of Educator Licensure.

Step 3: Submit an Ohio Teaching Credential Application

When you are ready to apply, obtain the Initial Ohio License Application – In-State or Out of State Packet. Complete the application and have your dean or head of teacher preparation sign where indicated. Send all of the required documents to the Ohio Department of Education, Office of Educator Licensure, 25 S. Front St, Mail Stop 105, Columbus, OH 43215-4183.