How To Become a Teacher in Connecticut 2025

If you're passionate about education and want to make a difference in young people's lives, becoming a teacher might be the career path for you. Earning your teaching certificate isn't as easy as just attending school and earning a degree. There are multiple steps to take to become a certified teacher in Connecticut.

Below, we'll highlight how to become a teacher and answer some frequently asked questions about teaching careers. Keep reading to learn more about becoming a teacher in Connecticut.

Steps To Become a Teacher in Connecticut

Becoming a teacher takes time and discipline, though some students want to find the fastest route to start their careers sooner. The quickest way to become a teacher involves knowing what to expect every step of the way. Continue reading to learn these steps for certification in Connecticut.

Step 1: Decide What Subject and Grade Level You Want To Teach

The first step to becoming a teacher is to decide what subject and grade level you want to teach. If you want to become a kindergarten teacher, you likely won't need to worry about choosing a subject. But for any other grade level, you'll want a specialty in a particular subject area. This may vary by school district, however. Regardless, it's best that new teachers be prepared with a subject they want to teach.

Becoming an Elementary School Teacher

Typically working with grades K-6, elementary school teachers can expect to teach most subjects in the classroom. At this age, students stay with one teacher for most of the day. In Connecticut, you'll need to graduate from an accredited college and pass the Praxis exam.

Becoming a Middle School Teacher

The requirements to become a teacher for middle school students are similar to those of becoming an elementary school teacher, though you will need to select a subject area to specialize in. Middle school teacher educational requirements include completing a Department of Education-approved degree program and applying for teacher certification through the state.

Becoming a High School Teacher

High school teachers focus on a particular subject area, such as math, English, or science � which requires them to have a deep understanding of the material. High school teacher educational requirements can be quite strict. To become a high school teacher, you'll need to complete a teacher preparation program, earn teaching experience prior to graduation, and apply for your license.

Step 2: Choose Your Major

The next step is to choose your major. While many aspiring teachers choose degree programs in early childhood education, elementary education, or similar areas of study, any bachelor's degree program can lead to a career as a teacher. If you choose an alternative route, you'll need to complete a teacher preparation program on your way to licensure.

Step 3: Earn Your Bachelor's Degree

If you want to be a teacher, you'll need at least a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution with a teacher preparation program. Coursework often includes lessons in childhood development and education, in addition to receiving hands-on experience.

Step 4: Consider a Master's Degree

While not a requirement, a master's degree can lead prospective teachers to higher-paying positions and potential advancement in the future. Many teachers decide to pursue a master's degree a few years into their careers, though you can opt to earn an advanced degree right after your bachelor's.

Step 5: Pass Connecticut Teaching Exams and Gain Licensure

In Connecticut, you'll have to pass the Praxis Academic Skills for Educators test and subject-specific certification exams before becoming a teacher. While completing these tests is necessary to get your license, they aren't the only requirement.

In addition to completing a certification program and passing the certification exams, you'll also need to pass a criminal background check. This is a requirement in all 50 states to teach grades K-12.

Step 6: Apply for Teaching Jobs

Now that you have your teaching license, it's time to apply for jobs. You can start by tapping your network by asking if any professors or faculty members from your university know of any open positions, or you can look on job board sites. Whether you want to work with high school students or in special education, there are plenty of jobs out there.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were over 1.5 million teaching jobs in 2023. That means there are numerous opportunities for you to explore.

How To Choose the Right Teaching Degree Program

If you're considering becoming a teacher, it's important that you choose the right program. Consider the school's accreditation, reputation, faculty experience, and program focus. Some positions require specific degrees. If you want to work in special education, you may need a degree in the field, whereas other positions simply require a bachelor's and a teaching license.

FAQs About Becoming a Teacher in Connecticut

Becoming a teacher in Connecticut can lead to a fulfilling career. If you're still unsure if teaching is the right path for you or want to know what to expect, read the FAQs below.

What Requirements Are Needed To Be a Teacher in Connecticut?

To be a teacher in Connecticut, you'll need to complete a bachelor's program, complete a teaching certification program, pass the necessary exams, and apply for state certification. As part of your certification program, you'll also need to complete student teaching hours.

Do Requirements Differ at Private Schools and Public Schools?

Yes, there are different requirements for private schools than there are for public schools. The main difference is that private school teachers are not mandated by the state to have a license. However, the school itself may require certification for employment.

How Fast Can You Become a Teacher in Connecticut?

Becoming a teacher typically takes a minimum of four years. However, you may be able to find accelerated programs to earn a degree faster, reducing the total time it takes to receive your certification.

What Is the Process To Become a Teacher Without an Education Degree?

A degree in education is not a requirement to become a teacher in Connecticut. Any bachelor's degree program can lead to a career in teaching. However, if your bachelor's doesn't include a teaching certification program, then you'll need to complete one separately.

Explore Online Education Programs

Becoming a teacher in Connecticut opens the doors to a rewarding career working with children and helping build their futures. If you're a working adult who wants to make a career change or a single parent who wants to go back to school, online education programs might be right for you. Explore more online degree options on Learn.org.