In Connecticut, there are two types of programs to earn your initial certification:

• In a university-based program, you can pursue certification while earning a bachelor's or master's degree.

• If you already hold a bachelor’s degree, you may pursue certification through an alternate route to certification (ARC) program. Your bachelor’s degree must be in a field closely related to what you want to teach. Heads Up: These programs do not offer a degree (like a master's) or credit hours.

Each program sets its own requirements for admission and completion.

However, unless otherwise stated by a specific program, all teacher candidates seeking admission into a program granting initial certification must meet at least two requirements:

1. Take the Praxis Core Academic Skills Test (or SAT, ACT or GRE) as a diagnostic assessment.

2. Have a minimum cumulative grade point average (GPA) of B- for all undergraduate courses.

Programs vary in many ways including size, duration, student demographics, requirements and more. As you compare different programs, consider how well each program prepares you to be learner-ready, successfully complete edTPA, and:

• Offers robust, hands-on, clinical experiences in the classroom, where you can observe and practice with a teacher who is effective and experienced. 

• Prepares you to work with a wide range of student populations by providing you with clinical experiences in a variety of settings.

• Provides an experienced mentor/coach who gives meaningful feedback during your preparation process.

• Shows commitment to continuous improvement using data-driven practices to improve features of their educator preparation programs for the benefit of students.

You will also find program offerings for each educator preparation program (EPP) in the Guide to Educator Preparation Programs in Connecticut.

In Connecticut, there are three tiers of teacher certification—and two pathways to get you there.

The two pathways to eligibility for teacher certification in Connecticut are:

1. Eligibility based on educator preparation program completion, which includes successfully completing a state-approved certification program and, if applicable for your certification area, passing subject-specific tests. Learn more about these programs above.

2. Eligibility based on prior teaching experience, which requires documentation of successful experience and, in some cases, may require additional coursework and/or passing Connecticut assessments.

The three tiers of certification in Connecticut are initial, provisional and professional. Advancement through the tiers requires additional years of experience and meeting certain criteria, such as advanced coursework.

If you’re already certified to teach in another state, you may be eligible for certification in Connecticut. To learn more about your eligibility, review these fact sheets from the Connecticut State Department of Education Talent Office’s Bureau of Certification.

Pro Tip: Certification requirements change over time, so check back soon for updates.