Top 11 Online Teacher Certifications

Certifications are important for an online teacher in the job market because they provide employers with evidence of a teacher’s qualifications and experience. Certifications can demonstrate that a teacher is up-to-date on best practices, has obtained specialized knowledge and skills, and has the ability to effectively teach online courses. Employers may also find certifications useful when vetting potential candidates for teaching positions, as it can help to ensure that their employees have the necessary qualifications to successfully teach online courses.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for Online Teachers and to explain how they can help to further an online teacher's career.

What are Online Teacher Certifications?

Online teacher certification is a process by which individuals can become certified teachers without taking traditional classes in person. This type of certification is typically offered through online universities and colleges, and is designed to provide aspiring teachers with the same education they would receive in a traditional classroom setting, but in an online environment. Online teacher certification allows individuals to become certified teachers without having to take time away from their current job or other obligations.

The benefits of online teacher certification are numerous. First, it provides individuals with the flexibility to complete their coursework when it best fits into their schedule. Additionally, since these courses are offered online, students can access them from anywhere with an internet connection and study at any time of day or night that works for them. Furthermore, because many of these courses are self-paced, students can work at a pace that works best for them while still learning the material necessary to become certified teachers.

In addition to the flexibility and convenience of online teacher certification, it also allows aspiring teachers to save money on tuition and other costs associated with attending a traditional college or university. Furthermore, some employers may even offer tuition assistance for those pursuing this type of certification. Finally, since this type of certification is becoming increasingly popular among employers looking for qualified educators, having an online teacher certification may give applicants an edge when applying for teaching positions.

Pro Tip: When considering an online teacher certification program, make sure to research the program's accreditation status and read reviews from other teachers who have completed the program. This will ensure that your certification is accepted by schools and employers.

Related: What does an Online Teacher do?

Top 11 Online Teacher Certifications

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

1. Certified Online Instructor (COI) from the Online Learning Consortium

The Certified Online Instructor (COI) program from the Online Learning Consortium is a professional development program designed to help online instructors become more effective and successful in their roles. It provides a comprehensive set of resources and tools to help instructors develop their skills and knowledge in the areas of instructional design, technology, assessment, communication, collaboration, and management. The COI program also offers an online certification process that allows instructors to demonstrate their mastery of these skills.

The COI program consists of three levels: Level 1 is for basic proficiency in online teaching; Level 2 is for advanced proficiency; and Level 3 is for expert proficiency. Each level requires the completion of a series of courses or activities related to the topics listed above. The courses are offered both online and face-to-face depending on the instructor's preference.

The time it takes to complete each level varies based on the instructor's experience level, but typically it takes approximately six months to complete all three levels. To get started with the COI program, instructors must first register with the Online Learning Consortium and pay an application fee. Once registered, they can then access all of the course materials needed to complete each level.

The cost of the COI program depends on which level you choose to pursue. Level 1 costs $150 USD; Level 2 costs $400 USD; and Level 3 costs $750 USD. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with some courses or activities required for each level.

2. Certified eLearning Professional (CeLP) from the International Association for Distance Learning

Certified eLearning Professional (CeLP) is a professional certification program offered by the International Association for Distance Learning (IADL). It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a level of excellence in their knowledge and understanding of eLearning. The CeLP program provides an internationally recognized standard of excellence for professionals working in the field of online learning and training.

The CeLP certification requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge and experience in eLearning through a combination of written exams, practical assessments, and portfolio reviews. Applicants must also complete an online course on eLearning principles and practices.

The process typically takes 6-12 months to complete, depending on the applicant’s individual circumstances. To get certified, applicants must first register for the CeLP program with IADL. They will then be provided with access to the online course materials, as well as information about the written exams and practical assessments they must complete. Once all requirements are met, they can submit their portfolio for review by IADL’s Certification Board.

The cost of the CeLP program varies depending on location and other factors. Generally speaking, it costs around $500 USD to apply for certification, plus any additional fees associated with taking written exams or completing practical assessments.

3. Certified Online Educator (COE) from the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards

The Certified Online Educator (COE) from the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards is a professional certification program designed to recognize educators who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively teach online. This certification is recognized by school districts, state departments of education, and other organizations as an indication of a teacher’s commitment to excellence in online teaching.

The COE program consists of two parts: the self-assessment and the portfolio review. The self-assessment requires teachers to complete a series of questions about their current online teaching practices and how they could be improved. The portfolio review requires teachers to submit evidence that demonstrates their mastery of the standards set forth by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards.

It typically takes between 6 months and 1 year to complete the COE program, depending on how much time a teacher has available for preparation and submission of materials. To get started, teachers should visit the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards website and register for the COE program. They will then receive access to all of the materials needed to complete the program, including detailed instructions on how to prepare their portfolio review submission.

The cost of completing the COE program varies depending on where you live; however, it typically ranges from $400 - $600 USD.

4. Certified Online Teacher (COT) from the International Society for Technology in Education

Certified Online Teacher (COT) from the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) is a professional certification that demonstrates an educator’s knowledge and understanding of online learning. The certification is designed to help educators become more effective in designing, implementing, and managing successful online learning experiences.

The COT certification process consists of two parts: a self-assessment survey and a portfolio review. The self-assessment survey assesses the educator’s current level of knowledge and experience with online learning. The portfolio review requires the submission of artifacts that demonstrate the educator’s ability to design, implement, and manage successful online learning experiences.

It typically takes between four to six months to complete the COT certification process. To get started, educators need to register for the program on ISTE's website. After registration, they will receive an email with instructions on how to complete the self-assessment survey and submit their portfolio review artifacts.

The cost of obtaining the COT certification varies depending on whether or not you are an ISTE member. For non-members, it costs $395 USD; for members, it costs $295 USD.

5. Google Certified Educator Level 1 & 2

Google Certified Educator Level 1 & 2 is a certification program designed by Google to help educators gain the skills and knowledge they need to effectively use Google tools in their classrooms. The program consists of two levels, each with its own set of requirements and assessments.

Level 1 focuses on basic Google tools such as Gmail, Calendar, Drive, Docs, Sheets, Slides, Forms, Classroom and more. To earn Level 1 certification, you must complete an online course which covers the basics of using these tools in the classroom. This course typically takes around 10 hours to complete and costs $25 USD.

Level 2 focuses on advanced topics such as creating interactive lessons with Google Apps for Education (GAFE), using Chromebooks in the classroom, and integrating technology into instruction. To earn Level 2 certification, you must complete an online course which covers advanced topics related to using GAFE tools in the classroom. This course typically takes around 20 hours to complete and costs $50 USD.

Once you have completed both courses and passed all assessments with a score of 80% or higher, you will be awarded your Google Certified Educator Level 1 & 2 certifications.

6. Microsoft Innovative Educator Expert

Microsoft Innovative Educator Expert (MIE Expert) is a program that recognizes and celebrates educators who are using technology to transform teaching and learning. It is designed to recognize educators who are using innovative technologies to create engaging, personalized learning experiences for their students.

To become a MIE Expert, you must complete the Microsoft Educator Center Certification program. This certification requires you to demonstrate your knowledge of Microsoft tools and services, as well as your ability to use them in the classroom. The certification process can take anywhere from one week to several months depending on how quickly you can complete the required courses and assessments.

The MIE Expert program is free of charge. However, if you choose to pursue the Microsoft Educator Center Certification, there may be some associated costs for taking the required courses or exams.

Once you have completed the certification process, you will be able to apply for the MIE Expert program. You will need to provide evidence of your successful completion of the certification program as well as examples of how you are using technology in your classroom. Once approved, you will receive an official MIE Expert badge and access to exclusive resources from Microsoft such as webinars, workshops, and other professional development opportunities.

7. Apple Teacher Certification Program

The Apple Teacher Certification Program is a professional development program designed to help educators learn how to use Apple products in their classrooms. It is an online, self-paced program that takes about 20 hours to complete. The program includes courses on iPad, Mac, and various apps from the App Store.

To get certified, you must complete all of the required courses and assessments. Each course includes video tutorials, hands-on activities, and quizzes that test your knowledge. Once you have completed the courses and passed all of the assessments, you will receive an Apple Teacher badge that can be displayed on your website or other digital platforms.

The cost of the Apple Teacher Certification Program varies depending on where you live and which institution you are taking it through. Generally speaking, it costs around $99 USD for individuals and $199 USD for institutions.

8. Adobe Certified Associate in eLearning Design and Development

Adobe Certified Associate (ACA) in eLearning Design and Development is a professional certification program from Adobe that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated proficiency in the use of Adobe tools for creating interactive learning experiences. This certification is designed to help professionals demonstrate their skills in creating engaging eLearning content for various platforms, such as web, mobile, and tablet devices.

The ACA certification requires individuals to pass two exams: one on Adobe Captivate and one on Adobe Animate. Both exams are designed to assess an individual’s knowledge of the tools and techniques used to create eLearning content. The exam covers topics such as designing user interfaces, developing navigation, creating multimedia elements, publishing content, and more.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to complete both exams and become certified. To get started with the certification process, you must first register for the exam through Adobe's website. You will then be given access to study materials and practice tests that will help you prepare for the actual exam.

The cost of the ACA certification varies depending on which country you are taking the exam in. Generally speaking, it costs around $150 USD per exam or $300 USD for both exams combined.

9. Blackboard Exemplary Course Program Certificate

The Blackboard Exemplary Course Program Certificate is an industry-recognized certification program that recognizes faculty and staff who have demonstrated excellence in the design, development, and delivery of online courses. The program provides a framework for course design and development that aligns with best practices in online education.

It takes approximately two to three months to complete the program and receive the certificate. To get the certificate, you need to submit an online application form and provide evidence of your course design and development process. You also need to complete a self-assessment survey and submit your course materials for review by Blackboard experts.

The cost of the program varies depending on the type of institution you are from. For example, universities may pay up to $2,000 while K-12 schools may pay up to $1,000.

10. Brainbench Master Online Instructor Certification

Brainbench Master Online Instructor Certification is a certification program that validates the knowledge, skills, and abilities of online instructors. It is designed to help instructors demonstrate their competency in teaching and learning principles, technology-enhanced instruction, course design and development, assessment strategies, and more.

The Brainbench Master Online Instructor Certification requires applicants to pass an exam that covers topics such as instructional design, technology-enhanced instruction, course design and development, assessment strategies, and more. The exam consists of 100 multiple choice questions that must be completed within two hours.

In order to get the Brainbench Master Online Instructor Certification, applicants must first register for the certification program on the Brainbench website. They will then be asked to complete a profile that includes information about their background in education and online instruction. After completing the profile, applicants will be given access to the exam. Once they have successfully passed the exam with a score of 70% or higher they will receive their certification.

The cost of the Brainbench Master Online Instructor Certification varies depending on whether you are taking it for personal or professional use. For personal use it costs $99 USD; for professional use it costs $199 USD.

11. Open Badges for Digital Skills & Competencies

Open Badges for Digital Skills & Competencies are digital badges that recognize and validate an individual’s skills and competencies in the digital world. It is a way to demonstrate one’s knowledge, skills, and abilities in the digital space. This badge is issued by organizations or institutions such as universities, companies, or other organizations that have expertise in digital skills.

The time it takes to get an Open Badge for Digital Skills & Competencies varies depending on the organization issuing the badge. Generally, it takes anywhere from a few days to several weeks to receive the badge once all requirements have been met.

To get an Open Badge for Digital Skills & Competencies, individuals must first meet certain criteria set by the organization issuing the badge. This could include completing courses or workshops related to digital skills, passing exams or tests related to digital skills, or demonstrating proficiency in specific areas of digital competence. Once these criteria have been met, individuals can then apply for the badge from the issuing organization.

The cost of obtaining an Open Badge for Digital Skills & Competencies varies depending on the organization issuing the badge. Some organizations may offer free badges while others may require a fee for their badges.

Do You Really Need a Online Teacher Certificate?

The short answer is no. You do not need an online teacher certificate to teach online classes. However, depending on the type of course and where you are teaching it, you may need some kind of certification in order to be legally allowed to teach the course.

For example, if you are looking to teach a college-level course online, most universities and colleges require that instructors have a minimum of a master's degree in the subject they are teaching. Additionally, many states also require teachers who are teaching online courses to have some kind of certification or license.

On the other hand, there are plenty of opportunities for people who don’t have an online teacher certificate to teach online classes. For instance, many platforms exist that allow individuals to create and teach their own courses without needing any formal qualifications or certifications. These platforms often provide support and guidance on how best to design your course and structure your lessons so that students can get the most out of their learning experience.

In conclusion, while having an online teacher certificate may be beneficial for certain types of courses and in certain locations, it is not always necessary in order for someone to teach a course online successfully. There are plenty of options available for those who want to create and share their knowledge without needing any formal qualifications or certifications.

Related: Online Teacher Resume Examples

FAQs About Online Teacher Certifications

1. What types of online teacher certifications are available?

Answer: There are a variety of online teacher certifications available, including Early Childhood Education Certificates, K-12 Teaching Certificates, and Special Education Certificates.

2. Is an online teacher certification program recognized by employers?

Answer: Yes, most employers recognize and accept online teacher certification programs as long as they are accredited and certified by the appropriate state education board.

3. How long does it take to complete an online teacher certification program?

Answer: The length of time required to complete an online teacher certification program depends on the specific program and its requirements. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from 6 months to 2 years to complete the program.

4. Are there any prerequisites for enrolling in an online teacher certification program?

Answer: Prerequisites vary depending on the program and its requirements, but typically include having a bachelor’s degree in education or a related field and passing certain exams such as Praxis or PRAXIS II exams.

5. Is financial aid available for online teacher certification programs?

Answer: Yes, many colleges and universities offer financial aid options for those interested in pursuing an online teacher certification program, such as grants and loans. Additionally, some programs may also provide their own financial assistance options for students who qualify.