Top 10 Secondary Teacher Certifications

Certifications are important for secondary teachers in the job market because they provide evidence that a teacher has met certain standards and is prepared to teach in their field. Certifications can give teachers an edge over other applicants, as they demonstrate that the teacher has gone through additional training and is knowledgeable about the subject matter. Additionally, certifications may be required for some positions or schools, and having them can increase a teacher's chances of getting hired. Finally, certifications can also make it easier for teachers to move from one state or district to another since many states recognize certifications from other areas.

The purpose of this article is to review top certifications for Secondary Teachers and explain how they can enhance a Secondary Teacher's career.

What are Secondary Teacher Certifications?

Secondary teacher certification is a process that certifies an individual to teach in a secondary school setting. This certification typically requires the completion of an accredited college program and assessment tests, such as the Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators. Secondary teacher certification also involves a background check and may require additional coursework or training depending on the state's requirements.

The benefit of becoming certified as a secondary teacher is that it allows individuals to pursue teaching jobs in middle schools and high schools. Having this certification demonstrates to employers that the applicant has met established standards and is prepared to teach at this level. It also gives them access to more job opportunities, since many states have minimum qualification requirements for teaching at the secondary level. Additionally, it may provide access to higher salaries and other benefits, such as health insurance or retirement plans. Finally, having this certification can help teachers advance professionally by providing them with valuable experience and knowledge they can use in their classrooms.

Pro Tip: When pursuing secondary teacher certification, consider taking courses that specialize in teaching students with special needs. This will give you a leg up when applying for jobs and show potential employers that you are prepared to work with all types of students.

Related: What does a Secondary Teacher do?

Top 10 Secondary Teacher Certifications

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

1. National Board Certification for Teachers

National Board Certification is a voluntary process that teachers can choose to pursue in order to demonstrate their knowledge and skills as an educator. It is a rigorous, performance-based assessment program designed to recognize excellence in teaching. The certification process typically takes one year to complete and involves submitting evidence of teaching practice and student learning outcomes.

In order to become nationally board certified, teachers must first meet the eligibility requirements set by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS). These include having a valid teaching license or certificate, completing at least three years of successful full-time classroom teaching experience, and passing a criminal background check.

Once eligible, teachers can begin the certification process by registering with NBPTS and paying the registration fee ($75). This fee covers access to the online portfolio system where teachers will submit their evidence of teaching practice and student learning outcomes. After registering, teachers have up to three years to complete all components of the certification process.

The next step is for teachers to assemble their evidence portfolio which includes videos of themselves teaching, student work samples, reflections on their teaching practice, written assessments of student learning outcomes, and more. Once completed, this portfolio will be submitted electronically through the NBPTS online system for review by trained assessors.

The final step is for teachers to take four written assessments that are based on content knowledge related to their subject area(s) as well as pedagogical practices related to effective instruction. After successfully completing all components of the certification process, teachers will receive their national board certification from NBPTS.

The total cost for National Board Certification varies depending on individual circumstances but generally ranges from $1,500-$2,500 when taking into account registration fees ($75), assessment fees ($475 per assessment), travel expenses (if applicable), and other miscellaneous costs such as purchasing materials or attending workshops/conferences related to preparation for national board certification.

2. English as a Second Language (ESL) Certification

English as a Second Language (ESL) Certification is a professional qualification that demonstrates an individual’s ability to teach English as a second language. It is typically required for those who wish to teach ESL in the United States and other countries. The certification process usually takes between six months and one year to complete, depending on the program.

To obtain ESL Certification, individuals must first complete a bachelor’s degree in education or linguistics, or a related field. After completing the degree, they must then take an approved ESL teacher training program and pass a comprehensive exam. The exam covers topics such as grammar, pronunciation, culture, and teaching methods. Once the exam has been passed, individuals can apply for state-specific certification from their local board of education or department of education.

The cost of obtaining ESL Certification varies depending on the program chosen and any additional fees associated with taking the exam. Generally speaking, most programs will cost around $1,000-$2,000 USD per semester or credit hour. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking the exam such as registration fees and test preparation materials.

3. Special Education Certification

Special Education Certification is a professional teaching credential that allows an individual to teach special education in public and private schools. It is typically required for those who want to work with students who have learning disabilities, emotional or behavioral disorders, physical disabilities, autism, or other health impairments.

The process of obtaining Special Education Certification can vary by state, but usually involves completing a bachelor's degree in special education or related field; passing the appropriate state certification exams; and completing an approved teacher preparation program. Depending on the state and the type of certification sought, additional requirements may be necessary such as student teaching experience or additional coursework.

The length of time it takes to get certified depends on the individual's educational background and the specific requirements set forth by their state. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from six months to two years to become certified.

In order to get certified, individuals must first complete all of the necessary educational requirements and pass any required exams. Once these are completed, they must apply for certification through their state’s department of education. The cost of certification varies depending on the state and type of certification sought but generally ranges from $100-$500 USD.

4. Reading Specialist Certification

Reading Specialist Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s expertise in the field of reading instruction. It is designed for educators who wish to specialize in teaching reading, literacy, and language arts. The certification requires completion of a specialized program of study and a comprehensive exam.

The length of time it takes to get Reading Specialist Certification depends on the individual's educational background and experience. Generally, it takes between one to two years to complete the required coursework and pass the exam.

To become certified as a Reading Specialist, individuals must meet certain requirements set by their state or school district. This may include having a master’s degree in education or literacy, completing specific courses related to reading instruction, and passing a comprehensive exam.

The cost of obtaining Reading Specialist Certification varies depending on the individual's educational background and experience level. Generally, those with more education or experience will pay more for their certification than those with less experience or education. Additionally, some states may require additional fees for taking the certification exam or completing other requirements necessary for certification.

5. Gifted and Talented Education Certification

Gifted and Talented Education (GATE) Certification is a professional development program designed to prepare educators to work with gifted and talented students. It is an endorsement that can be added to an educator’s teaching license, allowing them to teach in GATE programs or serve as a GATE coordinator. The certification typically requires completion of coursework and/or field experience related to the education of gifted and talented students.

The length of time it takes to complete the certification varies depending on the state where you are located. In some states, such as California, the certification can be completed in as little as one year. Other states may require up to four years of coursework and field experience before GATE Certification is granted.

In order to get GATE Certification, you must first meet the requirements for teacher licensure in your state. This includes completing a teacher preparation program from an accredited college or university, passing any required exams, and obtaining your teaching license from your state’s board of education. Once you have completed these steps, you can then begin taking courses or participating in field experiences that are specific to GATE Certification.

The cost of GATE Certification varies depending on the state where you are located and whether or not you choose to take courses or participate in field experiences related to GATE Certification. Generally speaking, the cost of courses will range from several hundred dollars up into the thousands depending on how many credits you need for certification. Field experiences may also require additional fees such as travel expenses or materials costs.

6. Technology Education Certification

Technology Education Certification is a credential that verifies an individual’s knowledge and skills in the field of technology education. It is designed to ensure that teachers have the necessary qualifications to teach technology in a K-12 setting. The certification is offered by the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) and requires applicants to pass an exam, complete coursework, and demonstrate teaching experience.

The certification process typically takes between six months and one year to complete. To get certified, applicants must first pass the ISTE Technology Education Certification Exam. This exam covers topics such as computer hardware, software, networking, multimedia, web design, programming languages, robotics, and more. After passing the exam, applicants must then complete at least 15 hours of coursework related to technology education from an accredited institution. Finally, they must demonstrate two years of teaching experience in a K-12 classroom setting or equivalent.

The cost of obtaining Technology Education Certification varies depending on where you live and how you choose to pursue it. Generally speaking, the cost of taking the ISTE exam ranges from $200-$400 USD depending on location. The cost of completing coursework can range from $500-$1,000 USD depending on the institution chosen and whether or not financial aid is available. Finally, there may be additional costs associated with demonstrating teaching experience such as travel expenses or other fees related to obtaining transcripts or letters of recommendation from previous employers or institutions attended.

7. Middle School Teacher Certification

Middle School Teacher Certification is a type of certification that allows an individual to teach middle school students. It is typically required in order to teach at the middle school level in most states.

The process of obtaining Middle School Teacher Certification can vary depending on the state, but generally it requires the completion of an approved teacher preparation program and passing a state-approved teacher certification exam. Depending on the state, this process can take anywhere from one year to several years.

In order to get Middle School Teacher Certification, you must first complete a bachelor’s degree in education or a related field from an accredited college or university. You may also need to complete additional coursework specific to teaching middle school students. After completing your degree, you must then pass a state-approved teacher certification exam and meet any other requirements set by your state’s Department of Education.

The cost for Middle School Teacher Certification varies depending on the state, but it typically includes tuition for courses and fees for exams and other materials. The total cost can range from several hundred dollars up to several thousand dollars depending on the length of time it takes you to complete the program and how many courses you need to take.

8. Career and Technical Education (CTE) Certification

Career and Technical Education (CTE) Certification is a professional credential that recognizes an individual’s knowledge, skills, and abilities in a particular career field. It is designed to help individuals demonstrate their expertise in the field and can be used to gain employment or advance in their current position.

It typically takes approximately one year to complete the requirements for CTE Certification. The requirements vary depending on the type of certification being sought, but generally include completing approved courses or training programs, passing an exam, and demonstrating experience in the field.

In order to obtain CTE Certification, individuals must first meet any prerequisites required by their chosen certification program. This may include having a certain amount of work experience or educational background related to the field they are seeking certification in. After meeting these prerequisites, individuals must then complete the necessary courses or training programs as outlined by their chosen program. Once completed, they must pass an exam related to their chosen field and demonstrate experience in it through references or other evidence.

The cost of obtaining CTE Certification varies depending on which program an individual chooses and what type of credential they are seeking. Generally speaking, certification costs range from several hundred dollars up to several thousand dollars depending on the program selected.

9. Social Studies Teacher Certification

Social Studies Teacher Certification is a credential that verifies an individual's qualifications to teach social studies courses at the elementary, middle, and secondary school levels. To become certified as a social studies teacher, individuals must typically complete a bachelor's degree program in education or social studies, pass a state-approved teacher certification exam, and meet any other requirements set by their state's board of education.

The amount of time it takes to earn Social Studies Teacher Certification varies depending on the individual's educational background and experience. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from one to three years to complete the necessary coursework and exams required for certification.

In order to get Social Studies Teacher Certification, individuals must first complete an accredited bachelor's degree program in education or social studies. After completing their degree program, they must then pass a state-approved teacher certification exam. Depending on the state in which they are applying for certification, additional requirements may include completing student teaching hours or passing additional subject matter tests.

The cost of Social Studies Teacher Certification varies depending on the individual's educational background and experience. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $500 - $2,000 to cover tuition fees for the required courses and exams needed for certification. Additionally, some states may require applicants to pay application fees or other associated costs when applying for certification.

10. Mathematics Teacher Certification

Mathematics Teacher Certification is a process that allows an individual to become certified to teach mathematics in a school setting. This certification is typically required for any teacher who wishes to work in a public or private school setting. In order to obtain this certification, the individual must meet certain educational and professional requirements.

The amount of time it takes to get Mathematics Teacher Certification depends on the individual’s background and experience. Generally, it can take anywhere from one year to three years of study before an individual is eligible for certification.

In order to be eligible for Mathematics Teacher Certification, individuals must have completed a bachelor's degree in mathematics or related field from an accredited college or university. They must also have completed a teacher preparation program that includes student teaching experience and/or have passed a state-administered test in mathematics education. Additionally, they must complete additional coursework related to teaching mathematics at the elementary, middle, or high school level as well as pass any other tests required by their state of residence.

The cost of obtaining Mathematics Teacher Certification varies depending on the individual’s educational background and the requirements set forth by their state of residence. Generally speaking, individuals should expect to pay tuition fees for courses taken during their teacher preparation program as well as any fees associated with taking any necessary exams or tests required by their state of residence.

Do You Really Need a Secondary Teacher Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the individual's career goals and educational background. For those who have already attained a bachelor's degree in education or a related field, the secondary teacher certificate is not required. However, for those who are interested in teaching at the secondary level, but do not possess an appropriate degree, obtaining a secondary teacher certificate may be necessary.

A secondary teacher certificate can provide individuals with the credentials needed to teach at the high school level. It can also serve as proof of specialized knowledge and skills that may be beneficial in other areas of education. For instance, many states now require teachers to pass certain tests before they are allowed to teach in public schools. Having a secondary teacher certificate can help demonstrate that an individual has met these requirements and is qualified to teach. Additionally, some employers may prefer candidates with a certification over those without one when hiring for teaching positions.

In addition to providing credentials for teaching positions, a secondary teacher certificate can also give teachers access to additional resources and professional development opportunities. Many states offer specialized programs or continuing education courses that allow certified teachers to stay up-to-date on best practices and keep their skills sharp. Furthermore, having a certification often allows teachers access to more job openings than non-certified educators have access to.

Ultimately, whether or not someone needs a secondary teacher certificate depends on their specific goals and educational background. If an individual has already obtained an appropriate degree and wants to pursue teaching at the high school level, then obtaining this certification may not be necessary. However, if someone does not possess such qualifications but still wishes to become a certified educator at the secondary level, then pursuing this type of certification would likely be beneficial.

Related: Secondary Teacher Resume Examples

FAQs About Secondary Teacher Certifications

1. What is a secondary teacher certification?

A secondary teacher certification is a credential that allows you to teach middle and high school students. It is issued by the state in which you plan to teach, and it requires specific coursework and exams to be completed before being awarded.

2. How do I obtain a secondary teacher certification?

The process of obtaining a secondary teacher certification varies from state to state, but generally involves completing an approved teacher preparation program, passing required examinations, and submitting an application for the certification.

3. Is a bachelor's degree required for secondary teacher certification?

In most states, a bachelor’s degree is necessary in order to pursue a secondary teacher certification. However, some states may accept certain types of associate degrees or alternative routes in lieu of the traditional four-year degree requirement.

4. Are there any specializations available with a secondary teacher certification?

Yes, some states offer specializations within the field of teaching such as mathematics, science, or English language arts. Depending on your state’s requirements, you may need additional courses or exams in order to qualify for these specialized certifications.

5. How long does a secondary teacher certification last?

The length of time for which your secondary teacher certification is valid depends on the rules in your particular state; however, most certifications are valid for five years before needing to be renewed or updated with new coursework or testing requirements.