Steps to become a teacher in Utah

Utah is a state that advertises strong family values. With this advertising campaign in full-swing, there is no better place to become a classroom teacher than in a Utah school with parent involvement and participation.

1. Utah requires all new teachers to have achieved a BA degree in education, or a secondary school classroom subject.
   

   Walden University Online
   Western Governors University
   Capella University
   Ashford University
   Jones International University
   Devry 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. Utah requires that people take approved teacher preparation courses after achieving their BA degree. These courses include time spent as a student teacher in a classroom setting.
3. Utah requires all new teachers to take an English language proficiency test.
4. Utah requires all new teachers to pass a Praxis II skills test.
5. Utah requires all new teachers to pass a fingerprint background check.
6. Utah requires a fee of $119 payable to "Utah State Office of Education"
7. Your Teacher Preparation Institution must provide a recommendation verifying that you have fulfilled the appropriate requirements to be qualified for Initial Utah Teacher Certification.
8. All materials should be sent to:
   Utah State Office of Education
   250 East 500 South
   P.O. Box 144200
   Salt Lake City, UT 84114-4200
   Or contact the Utah State Office of Education by phone at (801) 538-7740


9. In Utah, an alternative program is in place to help those who have their BA degree in a field other than education move into the classroom quickly if their presence is needed due to teacher shortages.
10. Utah requires all of their teachers to participate in professional development studies as a license renewal requirement.

The larger population school districts are found in Salt Lake City, West Valley, Jordan, and Sandy areas. Each school district is in charge of doing their own hiring while the teaching licenses come from the State. Utah keeps an education related job board called, Teach Utah where examples of current education employment opportunities may be seen for further information.