How To Become a Teacher in Utah 2025

Do you enjoy helping children learn and grow? If so, teaching might be the perfect career for you. To become a teacher in Utah, you'll need to meet state-specific requirements and pursue higher education.

Whether you're following a traditional education degree path or considering an alternative licensure route, understanding exactly how to become a teacher is key. From selecting a subject area to passing exams and applying for jobs, this guide will walk you through the requirements to become a teacher and get you started on your teaching journey in Utah.

Steps To Become a Teacher in Utah

Teaching can be a rewarding profession, but it comes with regulations set by the state. To become a teacher in Utah, you'll need to follow government-approved paths.

The fastest way to become a teacher, is through a traditional, state-approved program. You'll complete a bachelor's degree in education from an accredited institution, which includes completing an approved Educator Preparation Program (EPP) and a student teaching internship. Below, we'll break down each step you need to take in greater detail.

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

It's essential to determine the subject and grade level you wish to teach, as certification requirements vary for elementary, middle, and high school educators. This decision influences the specific educational pathways and endorsements you'll need to pursue. Say you want to become a kindergarten teacher, you'll need to pursue an early childhood education or an elementary education license area.

Becoming an Elementary School Teacher

Elementary school generally spans kindergarten through fifth or sixth grade. For this type of teaching position, you'll need to have classroom management skills and basic knowledge of various subjects. You'll likely complete an elementary education degree and be tested on relevant knowledge to become licensed.

Becoming a Middle School Teacher

Middle school teachers in Utah typically work with students in grades seven through eight. The middle school teacher educational requirements include a bachelor's degree in a specific subject area, like English or science, and an approved EPP. Additionally, obtaining a content area endorsement on your license is necessary, as it qualifies you to teach specific subjects at the middle school level.

Becoming a High School Teacher

High school encompasses grades nine through 12. At this level, you'll need to be prepared for more in-depth subject matter and help your students prepare for college studies. High school teacher educational requirements are similar to middle school � you'll complete an approved EPP at your level. And, much like the middle school level, you'll earn subject area endorsements on your license, which will determine what subject you'll teach.

Step 2: Choose Your Major

Choosing the right major is essential, as it lays the foundation for your future teaching career. If you plan to teach elementary school, you'll likely major in elementary education, which prepares you to teach multiple subjects across several grade levels.

If you decide to teach at the middle school or high school level, you'll earn an education degree with an emphasis on a specific subject matter, such as math or history. Your major not only deepens your content knowledge but also ensures you meet Utah's academic and licensure requirements for the grade level and subject you want to teach.

Step 3: Earn Your Bachelor's Degree

To become a licensed teacher, you must earn a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university. In Utah, 10 universities offer approved EPPs both in-person and online. For example, Western Governors University offers several programs that can lead to licensure, including special education, elementary education, and secondary education. All of these teaching programs' coursework is fully online, so you can earn your degree from anywhere in Utah.

If you have an undergraduate degree in a major unrelated to education, you can still become a teacher through alternative pathways. The Alternate Pathway to Professional Educator License (APPEL) is provided by school districts, the Utah State Board of Education (USBE), or charter schools.

Step 4: Consider a Master's Degree

You don't need a master's degree to teach at public schools in Utah; however, it can be beneficial to your career. A graduate degree can often lead to professional development, such as higher salaries or new leadership roles within your school or district. You may also want to pursue a master's degree to become more knowledgeable about your subject or transition into a different subject area altogether.

Step 5: Pass Utah Teaching Exams and Gain Licensure

To become a licensed teacher in Utah, you must pass the required exams and complete the licensure process. If you're applying for a license in elementary, special, or early childhood education, you'll need to pass the Utah Foundations of Reading Assessment.

After passing the necessary exams, you can apply for a Professional Educator License (PEL) through the USBE. This includes completing a background check with fingerprinting and submitting all necessary transcripts.

Step 6: Apply for Teaching Jobs

In Utah, all districts and charter schools have their own hiring processes in place, so you'll need to look up job postings on individual websites to find the most up-to-date information. You'll want to research school districts carefully and determine where you would like to teach.

Once you have an idea of the general location, start applying for jobs. Prepare a strong application that includes your resume, teaching license, transcripts, and letters of recommendation. Be ready to highlight your student teaching experience, classroom philosophy, and qualifications during interviews to make a strong impression.

How To Choose the Right Teaching Degree Program

When selecting a teaching degree program, consider your desired grade level, subject area, and long-term career goals. For example, aspiring elementary teachers typically pursue a degree in elementary education, while those planning to teach high school choose a subject-specific major combined with a secondary education program.

Make sure the program is state-approved and includes a student teaching component. Consider factors like location, cost, online or in-person format, and available support services. Choosing the right program ensures you meet Utah's licensure requirements and are well-prepared for the classroom and future career opportunities.

FAQs About Becoming a Teacher in Utah

With so many requirements and multiple pathways to becoming a teacher in Utah, you may be confused about some of the specifics. Below are answers to a few common questions.

What Degree Do You Need To Be a Teacher in Utah?

To teach in Utah, you need at least a bachelor's degree. Most prospective teachers earn an integrated education degree in the subject they wish to teach, though you can technically earn a bachelor's degree in any subject.

Do Requirements Differ at Private Schools and Public Schools?

Yes, the requirements to become a teacher vary based on the type of school. Public school teachers must meet state licensure requirements, including a degree, preparation program, and testing. Contrastingly, private schools in Utah have more flexibility and may not require state licensure, according to information from the U.S. Department of Education. However, it's important to note that many private schools still likely prefer or require licensed teachers with formal training and classroom experience.

How Can I Get a Teaching Job Without a Teaching Degree?

The traditional route is through a state-approved bachelor's program in education. However, Utah offers alternative pathways to licensure for individuals with an undergraduate degree in another field. Through programs like the APPEL, you can teach while completing coursework and meeting certification requirements.

How Fast Can You Become a Teacher in Utah?

The timeline to become a teacher varies. A traditional pathway takes about four years � the length of a bachelor's degree program. If you already have a bachelor's degree, it can take less time, often allowing you to begin teaching within a year while you complete certification requirements.

Pursue Your Teaching Certification

Earning your teacher certification is the final step toward a rewarding career in education. If you're starting on your career journey, check out the schools listed here on Learn.org and find an education program that leads to state licensure. Contact schools individually to get more information on costs and program details.