New York State is home to some of the most vibrant and diverse classrooms in the country. If you’ve ever dreamed of teaching in the Empire State, there are several pathways to help you achieve your goal, whether you’re starting your educational journey, changing careers, or relocating from another state. This guide outlines the most common paths to becoming a teacher in New York and their specific requirements.
Path 1: For College Students or Those Without a Degree
Who It’s For:
This path is ideal for high school graduates, current college students, or those who have some college credits but no degree and want to pursue a teaching career.
Steps to Certification:
- Earn a Bachelor’s Degree:
Enroll in a New York State-registered teacher preparation program. These programs include coursework, classroom management training, and supervised student teaching experiences. If you’re starting at a community college, look for a two-year program that transfers into a four-year K-12 teacher education degree. - Pass Required Exams:
After completing your degree, you’ll need to pass the following exams:- Educating All Students Test (EAS): Minimum passing score is 500.
- Content Specialty Test (CST): Required for the subject and grade level you plan to teach. The passing score depends on whether you’re taking the current (220) or revised (520) version.
- Complete Required Workshops:
All candidates must complete training in:- Child Abuse Identification and Reporting
- School Violence Prevention and Intervention
- Dignity for All Students Act (DASA)
- Apply for an Initial Certificate:
Upon meeting the above requirements, you’ll be eligible for an Initial Certificate, which allows you to teach in New York.
What to Keep in Mind:
You’ll need to complete a master’s degree within five years of earning your Initial Certificate to advance to a Professional Certificate, which is required for long-term certification.
Path 2: Career Changers with a Bachelor’s Degree
Who It’s For:
This path is for individuals who already have a bachelor’s degree in another field and want to transition into teaching.
Steps to Certification:
- Choose Between Two Certification Options:
Career changers can pursue one of the following:- Enroll in a traditional master’s-level teacher preparation program that leads to certification.
- Enroll in a Transitional B Alternative Teacher Preparation Program, which allows you to teach while completing certification requirements. These programs combine coursework with mentored teaching experiences and are ideal for those seeking a faster transition.
- Pass Required Exams and Workshops:
As with other paths, career changers must pass the EAS and CST exams and complete the workshops on Child Abuse, School Violence, and DASA. - Earn a Master’s Degree:
All candidates must complete a master’s degree within five years to obtain their Professional Certificate.
What to Keep in Mind:
While the Transitional B pathway provides a faster route to the classroom, it is not the only option for career changers. Consider your timeline, existing commitments, and program availability when deciding.
Path 3: Out-of-State Teachers
Who It’s For:
This path is for teachers who are already licensed in another state and wish to teach in New York.
Steps to Certification:
- Understand New York’s Process:
Unlike some states, New York does not have true reciprocity. Out-of-state teachers must apply through the New York State Education Department (NYSED) and meet all certification requirements, including:- Verification of your out-of-state teaching license
- Classroom experience and evaluations
- GPA requirements
- Required workshops (Child Abuse, School Violence, and DASA)
- NYSTCE exams (if your state does not require equivalent tests)
- Apply for Certification:
Submit your application via the NYSED TEACH portal. Depending on your qualifications, you may receive an Initial Certificate or Transitional Certificate, which allows you to start teaching while completing additional coursework.
What to Keep in Mind:
While New York values prior experience, out-of-state teachers should be prepared to meet additional requirements, which may include taking exams not required in their home state.
Other Considerations
What Are the General Requirements for Certification in New York State?
Here are the basic requirements for an Initial Certificate:
- Bachelor’s degree (minimum 2.50 GPA; higher for some programs)
- 30 semester hours of coursework in your content area
- 21 semester hours in pedagogical core coursework
- Completion of student teaching
- Passing the EAS and CST exams
- Completion of the required workshops (Child Abuse, School Violence, and DASA)
- Fingerprint clearance
A master’s degree is required for Professional Certification but not for the Initial Certificate.
Financial Incentives:
New York offers several financial incentives for prospective teachers, including:
- Masters-in-Education Teacher Incentive Scholarship: For SUNY and CUNY students who commit to teaching in New York for five years.
- Math and Science Teaching Incentive Program: Scholarships for students pursuing careers in math and science education.
- Federal TEACH Grant: Up to $4,000 annually for students who commit to teaching in high-need fields.
Where Are Teacher Shortages Most Severe?
Teacher shortages vary across regions and subject areas. New York teachers are needed in:
- Bilingual Education: (All Grades)
- Career and Technical Education: (Grades 7-12)
- English: (Grades 7-12)
- Health Science: (All Grades)
- Literacy: (All Grades)
- Science: (Grades 7-12)
- Social Studies: (Grades 7-12)
- Special Education: (Grades 5-12)
If you’re considering a career in teaching, New York offers numerous pathways to certification and support. Whether you’re starting fresh, changing careers, or bringing experience from another state, there’s a path for you to make a difference in the lives of students. For more information, create a Teach New York account for one-on-one support or contact SUNY for guidance.
If you have more questions about teacher education programs in New York, contact SUNY for help.
