Top 11 Social Science Teacher Certifications

Certifications are an important part of the job market for social science teachers. They demonstrate to potential employers that a teacher has obtained the necessary knowledge and skills to teach their subject area effectively. By earning certifications, teachers can demonstrate that they have taken additional steps to advance their professional development and stay up-to-date on current educational trends. This can give them a competitive edge over other applicants in the job market and show employers that they are committed to providing quality instruction. Certifications also provide assurance that a teacher is qualified to teach their subject area, which is especially important when teaching social sciences due to the often controversial topics covered in these courses.

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

What are Social Science Teacher Certifications?

Social science teacher certification is a process of professional development that allows teachers to become certified in teaching social science courses. This certification typically requires the completion of an approved program, such as a master’s degree or other specialized training, and the successful passing of an assessment. The purpose of this certification is to ensure that social science teachers have acquired the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively teach their subject matter.

Social science teacher certification can be beneficial for both students and teachers alike. Certified social science teachers are able to provide a higher level of instruction than those without certification, as they have been trained in specific aspects of their subject area. This can result in more engaging lessons, better student understanding, and improved test scores. Additionally, many states require teachers to obtain this type of certification before they can teach social science courses; thus, having this credential may open up additional job opportunities for educators who want to teach in public schools or other educational institutions.

Pro Tip: Make sure to research the state requirements for social science teacher certification before beginning the process. Each state has different requirements, so it is important to make sure you understand what is necessary to become certified in your state.

Related: What does a Social Science Teacher do?

Top 11 Social Science Teacher Certifications

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

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

The National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS) Social Science Certification is a voluntary certification program that recognizes teachers who demonstrate advanced knowledge, skills, and practices in the field of social studies. This certification is available to teachers who have completed a minimum of three years of teaching in the social sciences.

In order to obtain this certification, teachers must complete a rigorous process that includes an assessment of their knowledge and practice in the areas of history, geography, economics, government/civics, and psychology. This assessment includes four components: content knowledge; pedagogical content knowledge; instructional practice; and student learning outcomes. The entire process typically takes two to three years to complete.

To begin the process of obtaining NBPTS Social Science Certification, teachers must first register with the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS). After registering with the NBPTS, teachers must then complete an application form that includes information about their educational background and teaching experience. Once approved by the NBPTS, applicants will be required to take an online assessment that evaluates their content knowledge and pedagogical content knowledge in each area of social science. Upon successful completion of this assessment, applicants will be required to submit a portfolio that demonstrates their instructional practice and student learning outcomes. Finally, applicants must participate in an interview with board-certified assessors who evaluate their portfolio and interview responses before making a final decision on certification eligibility.

The cost for obtaining NBPTS Social Science Certification varies depending on where you live and how much support you receive from your school district or state department of education. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $2,000 - $4,000 USD plus any additional fees associated with registration or travel expenses related to the portfolio review process.

2. Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) Social Science Certification

Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) Social Science Certification is a certification program designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge, proficiency, and expertise in the field of social sciences. The CAEP Social Science Certification is designed to ensure that those who hold this certification are well-prepared to teach social science courses at the pre-K through 12th grade levels.

The process for obtaining CAEP Social Science Certification typically takes three years and includes completing an approved educator preparation program, passing required examinations, and meeting any additional requirements set by the state in which you are seeking certification. In order to be eligible for this certification, applicants must possess a bachelor’s degree in social sciences or related fields from an accredited institution and must have completed an approved educator preparation program.

In order to obtain CAEP Social Science Certification, applicants must complete all required coursework and pass two exams: the Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators (Core) exam and the Praxis Subject Assessments in Social Studies (5153). Applicants must also submit official transcripts from their undergraduate program as well as any additional documentation required by their state department of education.

The cost of obtaining CAEP Social Science Certification varies depending on the state in which you are seeking certification. Generally, it costs around $200-$400 for registration fees, exam fees, and other associated costs such as background checks or fingerprinting fees.

3. American Association of School Administrators (AASA) Social Science Certification

The American Association of School Administrators (AASA) Social Science Certification is a professional certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of school administrators in the social sciences. The certification is offered to individuals who have a master’s degree in education or related field and at least three years of successful administrative experience in a school setting.

To obtain the AASA Social Science Certification, applicants must complete an online application and submit official transcripts from all colleges/universities attended, as well as verification of their administrative experience. The applicant must also pass an online examination that covers topics such as educational theory, research methods, curriculum development, and assessment.

The cost of the AASA Social Science Certification is $500 for members of AASA and $700 for non-members. It typically takes approximately four to six weeks to receive the results of the exam after submitting the application materials.

4. National Council for the Social Studies (NCSS) Certified Teacher Program

The National Council for the Social Studies (NCSS) Certified Teacher Program is a voluntary certification program designed to recognize excellence in social studies teaching. The program is open to all K-12 teachers who have completed at least three years of successful social studies teaching and have earned a master’s degree or higher in social studies.

To become certified, teachers must submit an application that includes evidence of their educational qualifications, professional experience, and mastery of the NCSS Standards for Professional Learning. Once the application is approved, teachers must then complete an online assessment that evaluates their knowledge and understanding of the NCSS standards.

The entire process usually takes between 4-6 months to complete. The cost of certification is $200 USD plus a $25 processing fee.

5. International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) Social Science Certification

The International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) Social Science Certification is an online certification program that provides educators with the skills and knowledge they need to effectively integrate technology into their social science teaching. It is designed to help teachers become more effective in using technology to engage students, improve learning outcomes, and increase student achievement. The certification requires a minimum of 20 hours of professional development and can be completed over the course of two semesters or one year.

In order to get ISTE Social Science Certification, applicants must complete the following requirements:

1. Complete an online application form

2. Submit a current resume or CV

3. Pass a written assessment

4. Participate in an online discussion forum

5. Submit three lesson plans that demonstrate integration of technology into social science instruction

6. Complete a final project that demonstrates mastery of the ISTE standards for social science education

7. Receive a passing score on the final project review process

8. Pass the ISTE Social Science Certification Exam with a score of 80% or higher

9. Maintain certification through continuing education activities every two years

The cost for ISTE Social Science Certification varies depending on where you are located and which institution you are applying through; however, it typically ranges from $400 - $600 USD for the entire program, including all materials and exams fees.

6. National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP) Social Science Certification

The National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP) Social Science Certification is a professional certification that recognizes the expertise of secondary school principals in social science education. This certification demonstrates a principal’s knowledge and skills in teaching, curriculum development, and assessment of social science topics.

To obtain the NASSP Social Science Certification, a principal must complete an approved program of study from an accredited institution. The program should include courses in history, geography, economics, political science, sociology, anthropology, psychology, and other related fields. The program must also include a practicum or field experience with students in grades 6-12.

The length of time to obtain the NASSP Social Science Certification varies depending on the individual's prior education and experience. Generally speaking, it takes approximately two years to complete all requirements for the certification.

In order to get the NASSP Social Science Certification, applicants must submit an application form along with all required documentation to the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP). Applicants will also need to pass an exam administered by NASSP in order to receive their certification.

The cost for obtaining the NASSP Social Science Certification depends on several factors such as tuition costs for any required courses and fees associated with taking the exam. Generally speaking, applicants can expect to pay between $500-$1,000 for all associated costs.

7. National Middle School Association (NMSA) Social Science Certification

The National Middle School Association (NMSA) Social Science Certification is a professional certification program designed to recognize middle school teachers who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to teach social science courses. The certification is offered through NMSA’s partnership with the National Council for the Social Studies (NCSS).

To be eligible for the NMSA Social Science Certification, teachers must meet certain criteria, including having at least three years of teaching experience in middle school social studies and completing an approved course of study. The course of study consists of four core courses: Introduction to Middle School Social Studies, History and Geography, Government and Economics, and Culture and Society.

The certification process typically takes around two years to complete. After completing the required courses, teachers must pass an assessment that measures their knowledge in each area. Once they have passed the assessment, they will receive their certification from NMSA.

The cost of the NMSA Social Science Certification varies depending on which courses are taken. Generally speaking, it can range from $500-$1,000 for all four courses.

8. National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) Social Science Certification

The National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) Social Science Certification is a professional credential that recognizes teachers who have demonstrated mastery of the content, pedagogy, and practice of teaching social science in grades 6-12. The certification is valid for five years and can be renewed through continuing education credits.

To become certified, applicants must meet the following requirements:

1. Hold a valid teaching license or equivalent in the state where they are employed;

2. Have three years of successful teaching experience in grades 6-12;

3. Submit official transcripts from an accredited college or university showing completion of at least 18 semester hours of coursework in social science;

4. Pass a comprehensive examination administered by the National Evaluation Systems (NES); and

5. Submit a completed application to the NCTM Social Science Certification Program.

The cost for certification varies depending on the state where you are applying, but typically ranges from $100-$200 plus any applicable fees associated with taking the NES exam.

9. National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) Social Science Certification

The National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) Social Science Certification is a professional certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of educators who teach social science courses. This certification is intended for teachers who have a deep understanding of social studies content, as well as the ability to effectively apply it in the classroom.

It takes approximately one year to complete the requirements for NCTE Social Science Certification. The process involves completing an application form, attending a two-day workshop, and passing an exam. The application fee is $50 and the workshop fee is $250.

To get certified, applicants must first submit an online application form along with a copy of their teaching license or other proof that they are qualified to teach social science courses. Once accepted into the program, applicants must attend a two-day workshop where they will learn about curriculum development, assessment techniques, and instructional strategies related to social studies instruction. After completing the workshop, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as history, geography, economics, civics/government, sociology/anthropology and psychology. Upon successful completion of all requirements, applicants will be awarded their NCTE Social Science Certification.

10. American Federation of Teachers (AFT) Social Science Certification

The American Federation of Teachers (AFT) Social Science Certification is a professional certification that recognizes the knowledge and skills of teachers who specialize in social science. This certification is designed to help teachers demonstrate their commitment to excellence in teaching and to promote best practices in the classroom.

To become AFT Social Science Certified, an individual must meet the following criteria: have at least three years of teaching experience, hold a valid teaching license, have completed an approved AFT program in social science education, and pass the AFT Social Science Certification Exam. The exam consists of two parts: a written test and a performance assessment.

The written portion of the exam covers topics such as history, civics, economics, geography, anthropology, sociology, psychology and other related areas. The performance assessment requires candidates to demonstrate their ability to apply social science concepts in the classroom setting.

In order to receive AFT Social Science Certification, applicants must successfully complete both portions of the exam within one year. Candidates may take additional time if needed; however, they will be required to pay an additional fee for each part taken after one year has elapsed.

The cost for taking the AFT Social Science Certification Exam varies depending on where you take it. Generally speaking, it costs between $100-$200 for both parts of the exam combined.

11. Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (ASCD) Social Science Certification

The Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (ASCD) Social Science Certification is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who demonstrate advanced knowledge and skills in the field of social science. The certification is designed to help educators, administrators, and other professionals in the field of social science to become more effective practitioners.

The certification process consists of two components: an online assessment and an on-site assessment. The online assessment requires applicants to complete a series of multiple-choice questions related to their knowledge of social science topics such as history, geography, economics, sociology, anthropology, and political science. Applicants must pass this assessment with a score of at least 70% in order to move on to the on-site assessment.

The on-site assessment requires applicants to participate in a one-day workshop led by an ASCD certified instructor. During this workshop, applicants will be required to demonstrate their understanding of the topics covered in the online assessment through activities such as group discussions and presentations. Upon successful completion of both components of the certification process, applicants will receive an official ASCD Social Science Certification from ASCD.

It typically takes between three and six months for individuals to complete the certification process depending on how quickly they can complete the online assessment and attend the on-site workshop.

In order to get started with the ASCD Social Science Certification process, individuals must first register for either the online or on-site assessments through ASCD’s website. Once registered, individuals will be given access to all necessary materials needed for completing both components of the certification process.

The cost for obtaining an ASCD Social Science Certification varies depending on whether or not you are already an ASCD member; members pay $350 while nonmembers pay $450 for both components of the certification process combined.

Do You Really Need a Social Science Teacher Certificate?

Yes, a social science teacher certificate is necessary for anyone who wishes to teach social studies in the classroom. This certificate serves as proof that the individual has completed the necessary training and education to become a qualified teacher of social studies. It also shows that the individual has a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter and can effectively teach it to students.

Having a social science teacher certificate is beneficial for both teachers and students alike. For teachers, it shows potential employers that they have what it takes to be an effective educator in this field. It also gives them access to professional development opportunities such as workshops and conferences that are related to teaching social studies. This can help them stay up-to-date on current trends in the field and sharpen their teaching skills.

For students, having an instructor with a social science teacher certificate provides assurance that their learning experience will be engaging and meaningful. They will know that their instructor is well-versed in the content they are teaching, which helps foster trust between instructor and student. Additionally, having an experienced instructor allows students to gain knowledge from someone who has been immersed in the subject matter for years and has seen first-hand how it applies in different situations.

In conclusion, having a social science teacher certificate is essential for anyone wanting to pursue a career in teaching this subject area. It ensures quality instruction for students while providing teachers with access to professional development opportunities.

Related: Social Science Teacher Resume Examples

FAQs About Social Science Teacher Certifications

1. What qualifications are needed to become a social science teacher?

Answer: To become a social science teacher, you must have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in social science or related field and complete an approved teacher preparation program. Depending on the state, additional requirements such as testing or certification may be necessary.

2. How long does it take to get certified as a social science teacher?

Answer: The length of time to become certified as a social science teacher can vary depending on the state and individual situation. Generally, it can take anywhere from 6 months to several years.

3. Is there an exam required for certification?

Answer: Yes, most states require prospective teachers to pass an exam in order to receive their teaching certification. This exam is usually based on content knowledge in the subject area that they wish to teach.

4. Are there any continuing education requirements for maintaining certification?

Answer: Yes, many states require teachers to complete continuing education courses in order to maintain their teaching certificate and stay up-to-date with new developments in their subject area.

5. What types of jobs can I get with a social science teaching certification?

Answer: With your teaching certification, you may find employment at public and private schools, universities, museums, libraries, non-profits and other organizations that focus on education or research related to the social sciences.