Top 11 Drama Teacher Certifications

Certifications are important for a drama teacher in the job market because they demonstrate proficiency and expertise in their field. Certifications not only provide evidence of knowledge and skills, but also show potential employers that the individual is dedicated to their profession. Additionally, certifications can provide access to professional development opportunities and resources that may be invaluable for staying up-to-date on best practices within the field. Lastly, certifications can help drama teachers stand out from other candidates when applying for jobs or promotions.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for Drama Teachers and explain how they can help advance a drama teacher's career.

What are Drama Teacher Certifications?

Drama teacher certification is a professional credential that recognizes individuals who have achieved a certain level of proficiency in teaching drama. This certification is typically offered by organizations such as the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) or the American Alliance for Theatre and Education (AATE). The requirements for obtaining this certification vary depending on the organization offering it, but generally involve completing an approved program of study and/or passing an examination.

Having a drama teacher certification can be beneficial for those seeking to teach drama at any educational level, from kindergarten through college. It demonstrates to potential employers that the individual has met rigorous standards and is qualified to teach drama effectively and safely. This credential can also improve job prospects and provide access to additional professional development opportunities in the field. In addition, having this type of certification can help teachers stay up-to-date with current trends in drama education, making them more effective educators in their classrooms.

Pro Tip: When considering drama teacher certification, research the requirements of your local school district. Many districts require specific qualifications and certifications in order to teach drama, so it is important to make sure you meet these requirements before applying for a job.

Related: What does a Drama Teacher do?

Top 11 Drama Teacher Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Drama Teachers today.

1. National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS) Certification

The National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS) Certification is a voluntary, advanced teaching credential that recognizes accomplished teachers who have met rigorous standards of practice. It is the highest professional certification available in the field of teaching and is recognized by most states as an indication of excellence in teaching.

To become certified, teachers must demonstrate their ability to meet high and rigorous standards through a series of assessments. This includes completing a portfolio that documents their practice, taking written assessments, and participating in an assessment center. The process typically takes two to three years to complete and requires a significant amount of work on the part of the teacher.

In order to get started with the NBPTS Certification process, teachers must first register with the NBPTS website and pay a registration fee. Once registered, they will receive information about how to prepare for the assessment process. This includes guidance on what materials need to be included in their portfolio, as well as tips on how to prepare for the written assessments and assessment center.

The cost for becoming NBPTS certified varies depending on which certification area you are pursuing (e.g., Early Childhood Education or Secondary Education). Generally speaking, it costs around $2,000-$3,000 per certification area plus additional fees for registering with NBPTS and taking the assessments.

2. Drama Teacher Certification from the American Alliance for Theatre and Education (AATE)

The American Alliance for Theatre and Education (AATE) offers Drama Teacher Certification to recognize the professional achievements of educators who teach theatre in K-12 settings. This certification is designed to validate the knowledge, skills, and experience of drama teachers and provide them with recognition from a national organization.

The certification process involves completing an online application, submitting a portfolio of evidence demonstrating competency in teaching theatre, and passing an assessment. The assessment consists of a written exam as well as an oral interview. Candidates must have at least three years of successful teaching experience in order to be eligible for certification.

It typically takes about six months to complete the certification process from start to finish. In order to get started, candidates must first submit an application form and pay the $50 application fee. After that, they will need to submit their portfolio of evidence and pass the assessment before they can receive their certificate.

The cost of Drama Teacher Certification varies depending on the individual’s situation but generally ranges from $100-$500. This includes the $50 application fee as well as any additional fees associated with taking the assessment or submitting additional materials for review.

3. Certified Educational Theatre Practitioner (CETP)

Certified Educational Theatre Practitioner (CETP) is a professional certification program offered by the Educational Theatre Association (EdTA). The CETP is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated expertise in the field of educational theatre. The certification is based on knowledge, experience, and commitment to the profession of teaching theatre in educational settings.

To become certified, an individual must demonstrate their knowledge and experience in the field through a combination of education, professional development, and performance/production activities. To be eligible for certification, applicants must have a minimum of three years' full-time teaching or administrative experience in educational theatre at any level (elementary, middle school, high school, college/university). Applicants must also submit official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended as well as an application fee.

The CETP process takes approximately six months to complete. During this time applicants will need to complete an online application form and provide evidence of their qualifications for the program. Once all documents are received and reviewed by EdTA staff, applicants will receive notification regarding their eligibility for the program. If accepted into the program, applicants will then take part in a series of online assessments that assess their knowledge and skills related to educational theatre practice. After successful completion of these assessments, applicants will be awarded with their CETP certificate.

The cost for the CETP program varies depending on whether or not you are already an EdTA member. For non-members it costs $225 USD; for members it costs $150 USD.

4. Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) with a Concentration in Drama Education

Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) with a Concentration in Drama Education is a graduate-level degree program designed to prepare students for teaching drama and theatre arts at the secondary school level. The program typically takes two years to complete, depending on the institution and the student’s enrollment status. Courses cover topics such as directing, playwriting, acting, stage design, improvisation, theatre history and criticism. Students also learn how to effectively teach these topics in the classroom setting.

To get an MAT with a Concentration in Drama Education, students must first complete a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. Students must also have completed at least one course in theatre arts prior to applying for admission into the MAT program. Once accepted into the program, students will take courses that focus on educational theories and methods related to teaching drama and theatre arts. These courses may include topics such as curriculum development, assessment strategies, classroom management techniques and effective communication skills.

The cost of an MAT with a Concentration in Drama Education varies by school; however, most programs range from $20,000-$30,000 for tuition and fees over two years. Additional costs may include books and supplies as well as living expenses. Financial aid may be available through grants and scholarships for those who qualify.

5. National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) Certification

The National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) is a non-profit organization that provides professional accreditation to schools, colleges, and departments of education. NCATE certification is designed to ensure that teacher preparation programs meet rigorous standards set by the profession. It is a voluntary process that requires institutions to demonstrate their commitment to quality and continuous improvement in the preparation of teachers.

In order to receive NCATE certification, an institution must complete a self-study and submit evidence that it meets all of the NCATE standards. The self-study process typically takes two years and includes gathering data, conducting interviews with stakeholders, and submitting reports on program performance. Once the self-study is completed, an onsite review team will visit the institution for an assessment. After the review team has made its recommendations, the institution can then apply for NCATE certification.

The cost of obtaining NCATE certification varies depending on the size and scope of the institution's program. Generally speaking, it can range from several thousand dollars up to tens of thousands of dollars. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with preparing for the review process such as travel expenses or consultant fees.

Overall, obtaining NCATE certification is a lengthy and costly process but one that can help ensure quality in teacher preparation programs across the United States.

6. International Thespian Society (ITS) Certification

The International Thespian Society (ITS) is an honor society for high school theatre students. It is run by the Educational Theatre Association (EdTA), which works to promote theatre education in schools. ITS certification recognizes outstanding achievement in theatre arts, and provides members with access to exclusive opportunities such as scholarships, competitions, and festivals.

To become certified by ITS, a student must complete at least 100 hours of theatrical work over their high school career. This includes both on-stage and off-stage activities such as acting, directing, stage management, set design, lighting design, costume design, prop making and more. Once these hours are completed, the student can submit an application for certification.

The application process typically takes about 2-4 weeks for a response from EdTA. The cost of certification is $25 USD for US students or $50 USD for international students. Once approved, the student will receive a certificate of membership and a pin that they can wear proudly to show their accomplishment.

7. Certified Drama Educator (CDE) from the Educational Theatre Association (EdTA)

The Certified Drama Educator (CDE) is a professional certification offered by the Educational Theatre Association (EdTA). It is designed to recognize and reward theatre educators who have demonstrated excellence in their teaching practice, professional development, and service to the field.

In order to become certified, applicants must meet all of the following requirements:

1. Have at least three years of full-time experience teaching drama/theatre education;

2. Have completed at least 30 hours of professional development activities related to theatre education;

3. Pass an online assessment based on EdTA's National Standards in Theatre Education;

4. Submit a portfolio that includes evidence of teaching practice, professional development activities, and service to the field; and

5. Submit a signed Code of Ethics form affirming their commitment to ethical practices in theatre education.

Once all requirements are met, applicants will be awarded the CDE designation for five years from the date of completion. After five years, they may renew their certification by completing additional professional development activities related to theatre education and submitting updated documentation.

The cost for applying for the CDE is $125 USD for members of EdTA or $250 USD for non-members. The assessment fee is included in this cost.

8. National Association of Schools of Theatre (NAST) Certification

The National Association of Schools of Theatre (NAST) is a professional organization that provides accreditation for programs in theatre and related disciplines. It is the only organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education to accredit college and university theatre programs.

NAST certification requires that a school's program meets certain standards of quality, including curriculum, faculty qualifications, student performance opportunities, and facilities. The certification process typically takes around two years to complete and involves an extensive review by NAST's board of directors.

In order to get NAST certification, a school must first submit an application package that includes information about its program and faculty qualifications. Once the application has been reviewed, the school will be asked to provide additional documentation and/or participate in an on-site visit from NAST representatives. After all requirements have been met, the school will be granted certification for a period of five years.

The cost of obtaining NAST certification varies depending on the size and scope of the program being accredited. Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from $1,000 to $10,000 or more.

9. Advanced Studies in Theatre Education Certificate Program

The Advanced Studies in Theatre Education Certificate Program is a comprehensive program designed to provide theatre educators with the skills and knowledge necessary to teach theatre in an effective and engaging manner. The program is offered through the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) Extension.

The program consists of three courses that are taken over a period of six months. The courses cover topics such as acting, directing, playwriting, design, history, literature, and pedagogy. Each course is approximately 8 weeks long and requires approximately 8-10 hours of work per week. Upon successful completion of the three courses, students receive a certificate from UCLA Extension.

To get the certificate, students must apply for admission to UCLA Extension and then register for the three courses that make up the Advanced Studies in Theatre Education Certificate Program. The cost for each course is $700 plus any applicable fees. In total, the cost for the program is $2,100 plus any applicable fees.

10. Drama Educators Network Certificate Program

The Drama Educators Network Certificate Program is a comprehensive program designed to provide professional development for educators and practitioners of drama. It is a self-guided program that can be completed in as little as three months or up to one year, depending on the individual's needs. The program includes online courses, webinars, workshops, and resources to help participants develop their understanding of drama and its application in educational settings.

The program consists of four modules: Foundations of Drama Education; Creating and Facilitating Drama Experiences; Assessing Student Learning through Drama; and Professionalism in Drama Education. Each module contains several learning activities such as lectures, readings, assignments, discussions, and assessments. Participants must complete all four modules to receive their certificate.

To get the certificate, participants must register for the program online at the Drama Educators Network website. Once registered, they will receive access to all course materials and have access to an online community of fellow learners. They will also be assigned a mentor who will provide guidance throughout the program.

The cost of the program is $495 USD plus applicable taxes. This fee covers all course materials and access to the online community for one year after completion of the program.

11. Creative Dramatics International Certification

Creative Dramatics International Certification is a professional certification program designed to recognize and celebrate the work of creative dramatists. It is an internationally recognized certification that validates the skills and knowledge of those who have achieved mastery in the field of creative dramatics. The program is administered by Creative Dramatics International (CDI), a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting and advancing the art of creative dramatics.

The Creative Dramatics International Certification program consists of three levels: Professional, Master, and Grandmaster. Each level requires completion of a specific set of courses, workshops, and exams. To become certified at any level, one must demonstrate proficiency in both theory and practice.

The Professional Level requires completion of four courses: Creative Dramatics Foundations, Creative Dramatics Theory & Practice, Creative Dramatics Performance & Production, and Creative Dramatics Teaching & Facilitation. This level also requires passing two exams: one on theory and one on practice. The Professional Level typically takes six months to complete.

The Master Level requires completion of five additional courses: Advanced Creative Dramatics Theory & Practice, Advanced Creative Dramatics Performance & Production, Advanced Creative Dramatics Teaching & Facilitation, Advanced Script Analysis & Writing for Performance, and Advanced Directing for Performance. This level also requires passing two additional exams: one on theory and one on practice. The Master Level typically takes twelve months to complete.

The Grandmaster Level requires completion of seven additional courses: Script Writing for Performance, Directing for Performance, Movement for Performance, Design for Performance (Lighting/Sound/Set), Music for Performance (Vocal/Instrumental), Acting for Performance (Monologue/Scene Study), and Theatre History & Criticism. This level also requires passing two additional exams: one on theory and one on practice. The Grandmaster Level typically takes eighteen months to complete.

In order to get certified at any level through CDI’s program applicants must meet certain requirements including having at least three years experience in the field as well as submitting references from individuals with expertise in creative dramatics or related fields such as theatre or education. Applicants must also submit an application fee along with their application materials which varies depending on the level they are applying for; fees range from $50 – $200 USD per application depending on the level applied for.

Do You Really Need a Drama Teacher Certificate?

A drama teacher certificate is an important part of becoming a qualified drama teacher. It demonstrates that you have the necessary qualifications and experience to teach drama to students. Without this certification, it may be difficult for you to find work in the field of teaching drama.

Having a drama teacher certificate also shows potential employers that you are dedicated to your craft and that you take pride in your work as a drama teacher. It is a great way to show them that you are knowledgeable about the subject matter and can provide valuable instruction to students.

The process of obtaining a drama teacher certificate involves taking courses, completing exams, and gaining experience teaching in the classroom or through workshops. The requirements vary depending on where you live; some require that you have a degree while others may not require any credentials at all. However, it is always beneficial to have one if possible as it helps demonstrate your commitment and dedication to the field of teaching drama.

In conclusion, having a drama teacher certificate is important if you want to become a successful and qualified drama teacher. It will help demonstrate your knowledge and skills in the subject area, as well as give potential employers confidence in hiring you for their institution or organization. Although there are no guarantees when it comes to finding employment, having this certification will certainly give you an edge over those without one.

Related: Drama Teacher Resume Examples

FAQs About Drama Teacher Certifications

1. What qualifications are required to become a drama teacher?

Answer: To become a drama teacher, you typically need to have at least a Bachelor's degree in Drama or Theatre, or an equivalent qualification such as a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE). You may also need to demonstrate experience of teaching and/or performing arts.

2. Are there any specific courses I can take to become certified as a drama teacher?

Answer: Yes, there are several courses available for those wishing to gain certification as a drama teacher. These include the Level 3 Award in Education and Training, the Level 4 Diploma in Education and Training, and the Level 5 Diploma in Education and Training. All of these qualifications are accredited by Ofqual (the Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation) in England.

3. Is it necessary to be registered with any professional bodies when working as a drama teacher?

Answer: It is not essential to register with any professional bodies when working as a drama teacher, but becoming a member of one can help you network with other professionals in your field, find work more easily, and access specialist advice and resources. The main UK-based organisations for drama teachers are the National Association of Drama Educators (NADE) and the National Drama Teachers Association (NDTA).

4. How long does it take to complete the necessary qualifications for becoming a certified drama teacher?

Answer: The time it takes to complete the necessary qualifications for becoming a certified drama teacher depends on which course you choose; however, most courses will take between 6 months - 1 year full-time study or 2 - 3 years part-time study.

5. Is there an exam that must be passed before becoming certified as a drama teacher?

Answer: Yes, most courses require you to sit an assessment/exam at the end of your studies before gaining certification as a qualified drama teacher. You will also need to provide evidence of your teaching practice during your course before receiving your certificate.