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 multiple pathways to help you achieve your goal, whether you’re starting your educational journey, changing careers, or relocating from another state. Here’s a guide to the three most common paths to becoming a teacher in New York, along with their specific requirements.
Path 1: The College Student (or College Major Changer)
Who It’s For:
This path is ideal for new college students or those already enrolled in college who decide to pursue teaching as a career. This is also an ideal path for those who have some college credits and no degree.
Steps to Certification:
- Earn a Bachelor’s Degree:
Enroll in a New York State-registered teacher preparation bachelor’s degree program. If you want to start at your local community college, find a 2-year education program that transfers to a 4-year, K12 teacher education degree. These programs are designed to meet New York’s certification requirements and include coursework, classroom management training, and student teaching experiences. - Pass Required Exams:
After you graduate with your bachelor’s degree, it’s time for certification. Before certification, you’ll need to pass these New York State Teacher Certification Exams (NYSTCE):- Educating All Students Test (EAS). The minimum passing score is a 500.
- Content Specialty Test (CST) in the subject are you plan to teach. The minimum passing score for the current CSTs is 220 (score range 100-300), and the revised CSTs is 520 (Score range 400-600).
- Complete Required Workshops:
All prospective teachers in New York 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:
After graduating, you’ll be eligible for an Initial Certificate, allowing you to start teaching in New York.
What to Keep in Mind:
You’ll have up to five years to complete a master’s degree, which is required for a Professional Certificate (the next certification level).
Path 2: The Career Changer With a Degree in Another Field
Who It’s For:
This path is designed for individuals who already have a bachelor’s degree in another field and want to become a public school teacher in New York. It all starts with the Transitional B Certificate Program.
Steps to Certification:
- Enroll in an Alternative Certification Program:
New York offers alternative pathways, such as the Transitional B Certificate, which allows career changers to teach while completing necessary coursework. These programs typically combine evening and weekend classes with mentored teaching experiences. - Verify Your Bachelor’s Degree:
You’ll need a bachelor’s degree that aligns with the subject area you wish to teach. For example, a biology degree can qualify you to teach science. - Pass Required Exams:
As with new college students, you’ll need to pass the EAS and CST exams relevant to your certification area. - Complete Required Workshops:
Career changers must also complete the Child Abuse, School Violence, and DASA training. - Earn a Master’s Degree:
Like other pathways, career changers must complete a master’s degree within five years to advance to a Professional Certificate.
What to Keep in Mind:
Alternative certification programs often allow you to start teaching quickly while earning your credentials, which is ideal for career changers who want to transition efficiently.
Path 3: The Out-of-State Teacher
Who It’s For:
This path is perfect for teachers already licensed in another state who want to start teaching in New York. Teach New York allows you to create a personalized dashboard to help you on your path to become a teacher in New York.
Steps to Certification:
- Check Reciprocity Agreements:
New York has certification reciprocity agreements with many states, simplifying the transfer process. Visit the NYSED Reciprocity Guidelines to confirm your eligibility. - Apply for Certification:
Submit your application through the New York TEACH portal, providing proof of your out-of-state teaching license, official transcripts, and relevant experience. - Complete New York Requirements:
- Take any necessary exams not required in your state, such as the EAS or CST.
- Complete the required workshops (Child Abuse, School Violence, and DASA).
- Begin Teaching:
If you meet the requirements, you may receive an Initial Certificate or a Transitional Certificate, allowing you to start teaching while completing any additional coursework.
What to Keep in Mind:
If you don’t have a master’s degree, you have 5 years to earn it for your professional certification.
If you have more questions about teacher education programs in New York, contact SUNY for help.
