How To Become a Teacher Online in New Jersey

To become a teacher in New Jersey, you must complete the state certification requirements. Once you earn an undergraduate degree, attend a teacher preparation program, participate in student teaching, and take the Praxis exam, you are eligible for teacher certification.

Whether you're looking to change careers or you have been planning to enter the teaching field, online programs provide a flexible way for you to earn a degree while also meeting the licensure requirements.

With various education programs and state requirements, it is necessary to understand the steps and requirements to ensure you are eligible for teacher certification in New Jersey. Keep reading to learn more about becoming a teacher online.

Steps for Becoming a Teacher Online in New Jersey

Teaching licensure and education requirements vary depending on the state. If you want to become a teacher in New Jersey you can prepare by following these steps to receive New Jersey teacher certification.

1. Determine Your Area of Focus

The first step to becoming a teacher is determining the subject area or grade level you plan to focus on. Understanding your area of focus early will help you choose courses during your degree and teacher education program and better prepare you to meet state-specific requirements.

New Jersey offers teaching certifications for various areas, such as elementary education, early childhood development, and special education. There are also subject-specific certifications like math, science, English language arts, and career and technical education.

2. Gain an Undergraduate Degree Online

You'll need to complete a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution while maintaining a 3.0 GPA. Many universities in New Jersey offer online programs that allow you to earn your degree while working or managing other responsibilities.

It's a good idea to choose a degree program that aligns with the subject or grade level you plan to teach so that you are eligible for certification.

3. Pass a Background Check

Before you can be employed in any school setting, you need to pass a background check. This step ensures the school is safe for students and employees. Most teacher preparation programs, whether online or in-person, require that you complete this step before entering the classroom for your required student teaching hours.

4. Participate in a Teacher Preparation Program

In addition to earning your degree, the New Jersey Department of Education (NJDOE) requires educators to complete a state-approved teacher preparation program.

Many colleges and universities include this in their bachelor's and master's degree programs so students can complete licensure requirements while studying online.

Teacher certification programs cover topics like pedagogy, classroom management, and instructional technology, which are all necessary for successfully leading a classroom.

5. Complete Required Teaching Hours

Completing teaching hours is one of the certification requirements and helps prepare you for your classroom. Even if your teaching degree program is online, you must complete an in-person student teaching experience.

Most online programs partner with schools to offer this opportunity in your local area, ensuring you get the practical experience needed to succeed. During this time, you will work under the guidance and supervision of an experienced educator.

6. Pass Praxis Tests for Their Certification Area

To become a licensed teacher in New Jersey, you need to pass the Praxis tests that correspond to your certification area. The Praxis Core Academic Skills exam covers basic teaching skills in reading, writing, and mathematics.

Praxis II exams are grade-level and subject-specific tests that assess your knowledge and provide you with an endorsement in the area you plan to teach. Many online teaching programs offer resources to help you prepare for these exams.

7. Pass a Physiology and Hygiene Examination

Like many states, New Jersey teachers must pass a physiology and hygiene exam. This test ensures that educators have a foundational understanding of health and wellness, which is crucial for maintaining the safety and well-being of students.

8. Obtain Teaching Certification

Once you earn your degree, complete your exam with a passing score, and meet the student teaching requirements, you can apply for your teaching certification through the New Jersey Educator Certification System.

If you decide to take the traditional route for becoming a teacher, as outlined in the steps above, you can receive a Certificate of Eligibility with Advanced Standing (CEAS).

If you take the alternate route for a provisional certificate, meaning you meet all the requirements but haven't completed a teacher preparation program, you can receive a Certificate of Eligibility (CE).

While applying for an alternate or standard teaching certificate, you will need to submit required materials such as official transcripts and test scores.

After completing this step, you will qualify for teaching positions at public schools as well as NJDOE-approved private schools for students with disabilities in the state of New Jersey.

Online Bachelor's Programs for Aspiring Teachers in New Jersey

If you're looking to earn your bachelor's degree online, several universities in New Jersey offer programs for aspiring teachers.

Montclair State University � BA in Liberal Studies

Montclair State University offers a BA in liberal studies with a concentration in education studies. The program provides a broad foundation in liberal arts, child development, and educational pedagogy, preparing graduates to teach at the elementary or middle school levels.

The university's fully online courses allow students to keep up with their current schedules and commitments while completing schoolwork.

Kean University � BA in Liberal Arts

Kean University's Bachelor of Arts in liberal arts is another flexible, online option for aspiring teachers. With a focus on developing critical thinking and communication skills, graduates can expect to be well-prepared to obtain their teaching certifications.

Thomas Edison State University � BA in History

Thomas Edison State University offers an online bachelor's degree in history that covers topics like American history, Western studies, and world history. A degree in a specialized field, like history, can prepare graduates to become high school teachers.

The program provides students with a comprehensive understanding of historical studies while meeting the coursework requirements for teacher certification in New Jersey.

How Long Does It Take To Become a Teacher in New Jersey?

The time it takes to become a teacher in New Jersey can vary depending on your prior education and the certification pathway you choose.

For example, the traditional route of earning an undergraduate degree can take around four to five years, and, because they often include student teaching hours, graduates are prepared to take their exams and begin teaching the following school year.

On the other hand, if you already have a degree in another field, you can take an alternative route to complete a teacher preparation program. With this option, meeting certification requirements for your school district can take around two years or less.

How Do I Renew My Teaching License in New Jersey?

To renew your teaching license in New Jersey, you must complete 20 hours of professional development annually. New Jersey educators are required to renew their licenses every five years. With accessible online programs and useful resources, you can meet these requirements without affecting your teaching schedule.