How To Become a Teacher in South Dakota 2025

Every state has different requirements to become a teacher. While most require a bachelor's degree and completion of a teacher preparation program, additional state requirements or testing may vary.

In South Dakota, teachers need to earn a bachelor's degree and complete a preparation program but must also take certification exams and complete additional specific courses. Keep reading to learn more about becoming a teacher in South Dakota below.

Steps To Become a Teacher in South Dakota

All teachers in South Dakota are required to hold a bachelor's degree and complete a teacher education program (also called teacher preparation programs or educator preparation programs). As a result, the simplest and fastest way to become a teacher is to earn a bachelor's degree through an approved teacher education program. We dive deeper into the requirements to become a teacher below.

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

Before you can pursue a teaching degree, you need to decide what subject area and grade level you want to teach. This will determine what major you pursue and what teaching certification you obtain.

Becoming an Elementary School Teacher

If you want to become an elementary school teacher, you have a few options. You can earn a certificate in early childhood education, which covers birth through third grade, or elementary education to teach kindergarten through eighth grade.

You may notice there's some overlap there. For example, to become a kindergarten teacher, you could earn either license.

Special education licenses are available for the same age ranges. You can also earn endorsements in areas like art, music, physical education, and world languages.

Becoming a Middle School Teacher

North Dakota doesn't offer a specific certification for middle school. Students can choose between the elementary education certificate for grades kindergarten through eight or the secondary education option for grades five through 12. However, an endorsement area in middle grade education is available.

As a result, middle school teacher educational requirements in South Dakota typically involve earning a degree in either elementary or secondary education. Most colleges don't offer a major for middle school.

Becoming a High School Teacher

To work as a high school teacher, you'll need a secondary education license and an endorsement in the subject area you want to teach. There are several options for subject areas in South Dakota, including multiple fields of science and social studies.

The high school teacher educational requirements in South Dakota involve completing a teacher education program for the secondary subject area you want to teach. Many South Dakota schools offer these programs.

Step 2: Choose Your Major

Now that you know what type of teacher you want to be, it's time to choose your major. This will influence the type of certification program you take and the type of teaching license you are eligible for.

Different schools in South Dakota offer different majors. For example, the University of Sioux Falls offers an elementary education option, several K-12 options, and a handful of options for grades five through 12. South Dakota State University also offers programs in elementary education and K-12 areas, as well as early childhood education, with a greater variety of options for students in grades five to 12.

Step 3: Earn Your Bachelor's Degree

The most efficient way to become a teacher in South Dakota is to earn your bachelor's degree through an approved educator preparation provider. There are currently 11 schools in South Dakota that are approved to offer education degrees.

In your program, you'll spend time taking coursework on subject matter like educational psychology and basic skills for classroom management. You'll also take education courses for the specific subject you want to teach.

Additionally, you'll be required to participate in student teaching experiences. These allow you to practice your skills in a local school district under the guidance of an experienced and certified teacher.

Step 4: Consider a Master's Degree

A master's degree is not a requirement for teachers in South Dakota. However, many teachers choose to pursue advanced degrees to give them an edge in the job market.

Often, new teachers will earn their teaching credentials and secure a position before enrolling in a master's program. Many of these teaching programs offer online courses, allowing teachers to work while earning their master's degree.

A master's degree is also an excellent option for career changers or those who earned their bachelor's degree in a different field and have not completed a teacher preparation program. They can earn their license by choosing a master's degree through an approved education program.

Step 5: Pass South Dakota Teaching Exams and Gain Licensure

All prospective teachers in South Dakota need to take certain exams to earn their teaching license. South Dakota uses the Praxis tests as its teaching exams.

Every teacher, whether they're teaching kindergarteners or high school students, must take the Principles of Teaching and Learning (PLT) test. Additional tests required will depend on the grade level and specialization you want to teach.

There are a few additional state requirements you'll need to obtain licensure. You'll also need to take and pass a South Dakota Indian studies course, and you'll need to pass a background check.

Note that to maintain your certification, you will need to renew your license and complete professional development hours periodically.

Step 6: Apply for Teaching Jobs

Congratulations, you're a certified teacher. Now it's time to find a teaching job. You can apply at school districts across the state � and you can consider positions at private schools.

According to O*Net and Projections Central, job openings for teachers are expected to decline by 1% nationwide by 2032. However, in South Dakota, openings are expected to increase by 6%. If you're pursuing a license in a teacher shortage area, the number could be even higher.

How To Choose the Right Teaching Degree Program

There are several things to consider when choosing a teaching program. These include:

• Approval and accreditation: Look for teacher preparation programs approved by the state. All schools offering these programs are regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
• Your desired teaching field: Because not all schools offer all education majors, you'll need to look at which schools have programs for the grade and subject area you want to teach.
• Format: Some schools offer online courses with only student teaching in person. Others have entirely in-person programs.
• Cost: Tuition rates and financial aid options can vary significantly between schools.

FAQs About Becoming a Teacher in South Dakota

Below, we've answered a few frequently asked questions about becoming a teacher in South Dakota.

What Degree Do You Need To Be a Teacher in South Dakota?

To be a teacher in South Dakota, you need a bachelor's degree. The exception is for those teaching career and technical education (CTE) who need an Associate of Applied Science or higher in the subject area they want to teach.

Do Requirements Differ at Private Schools and Public Schools?

Requirements are different for teachers in public schools and teachers in private schools in South Dakota. The state does not require private school teachers to hold a teaching license. However, individual schools may still have this requirement.

How Fast Can You Become a Teacher in South Dakota?

In general, the length of time it takes to earn your teaching certification will depend on how long it takes you to complete your bachelor's degree program. Many students finish within four years of full-time study.

It also depends on how long it takes you to take and pass your teaching exams and complete your background check. Once the state receives an application from an aspiring teacher, it takes about four to five weeks to process.

How Do I Renew My Teacher Certification in South Dakota?

You can renew your teacher certification through the SD Educator Portal. You'll need to submit evidence of your professional development hours. It's recommended that you submit your renewal application at least six to 10 weeks before your license expires.

Start Your Teaching Career

Start your journey toward becoming a teacher by exploring the programs featured on Learn.org. Contact individual schools for more information on admissions, enrollment, and licensure options.