Steps to become a teacher in Oklahoma

After graduating high school, or receiving a GED, the first step towards becoming an elementary school, junior high school, or senior high school teacher in Oklahoma is to go to college to earn a four-year BA degree.

1. Oklahoma requires all new teacher candidates to have a BA degree from an accredited college or university.

   Walden University Online
   Ashford University Online
   Jones International University
   DeVry University
   Western Governors University

   * There are so many accredited colleges that offer teaching degrees, and it is very important to ensure that the college you select meets your budget and convenience. So get free information from more than one college to make sure that you are making the right choice.
2. Oklahoma requires all new teacher candidates to have training in classroom teaching that is provided through an approved school that gives Oklahoma teacher preparation courses. These courses will include time spent doing student teaching in a classroom.
3. New teacher candidates in Okalahoma must complete the basic skills tests: Oklahoma General Education Test, Oklahoma Professional Teaching Exam, and the Oklahoma Subject Area Tests before a full teaching license will be issued. Click here for more infomration.
4. Oklahoma requires new teaching candidates to pass a background check, fingerprint check, and a criminal records search. For more inforamtion you can email them at certforms@sde.state.ok.us, or call (405) 521-3337
5. Download the Application for the Oklahoma School License here. Application packet must contain the following:
   • Official Transcripts for all college credits and degrees earned.
   • Two Fingerprint cards
   • Notarized signiture and date.
   • Licensing fees
   Send to Oklahoma State Department of Education
   Professional Standards Section
   Hodge Education Building - Room 212
   2500 North Lincoln Boulevard
   Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73105-4599
   
6. Oklahoma does not require undergraduate credits for specific subject areas like many of the other states do for licensing.

The Oklahoma State Department of Education keeps a very informative internet site that has forms and information that can be easily downloaded. This Web site explains in detail how alternative methods of licensing can be used sometimes for those who have a BA degree but who have not taken their teacher trainings yet.