Meet the Requirements to Teach in Alabama Through Auburn University Online Programs

Alabama is experiencing a significant shortage of teachers, making it the perfect time for aspiring educators to enter the field. The state's recent legislative efforts to increase teacher salaries have further incentivized individuals to pursue teaching careers. To qualify for teaching positions in Alabama, educators must get the proper certification.

Auburn University at Montgomery (AUM) offers a range of online teaching and education degree programs that help educators meet the requirements for teaching in Alabama. AUM offers a number of master's and post-master's education programs that focus on elementary education, instructional leadership and technology, kinesiology, secondary education, counseling, and special education. These programs provide flexible and convenient options for those looking to advance their careers in education.

Requirements to Teach in Alabama

The state requires teachers to hold a valid teaching certificate, which involves completing a teacher education program and passing state-mandated exams. The necessary certification level can vary depending on the grade level and subject area taught.

Alabama has recently updated its teacher training standards. The state now uses a performance assessment to evaluate candidates' teaching abilities. Educators can earn the necessary training at the undergraduate or graduate level. Candidates should prepare to take various tests and undergo a background check.

Teachers with a bachelor's degree who meet all certification requirements receive a Professional Educator Certificate (Class B credential). Teachers with advanced degrees are eligible for Class A or AA credentials (advanced teacher certificates).

AUM's Online Teaching and Education Degree Programs

AUM's online programs offer a comprehensive curriculum designed to prepare educators for successful careers in the classroom. The following Master of Education (MEd) programs are available to prospective students:

• Elementary Education: This program prepares educators to teach elementary school students.
• Instructional Leadership: The online classes and in-person training prepare teachers to lead improvements in teaching, use new technology effectively, and manage educational institutions.
• Instructional Technology: Students in this program discover new teaching tools and learn to use technology in lessons that follow International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) coaching standards.
• Kinesiology: This program helps improve physical education skills by studying advanced kinesiology concepts through online courses and practical experience.
• Secondary Education: Students in this degree program develop expertise in research and education strategies while increasing their proficiency as educators at the high school level.
• Special Education: This program allows educators to gain additional expertise by completing online courses and a practicum as they learn to adapt their teaching to the needs of students in various environments.

AUM also offers various post-master’s educational specialist (EdS) programs in teaching and education. According to Indeed, EdS degrees are specialized degrees students pursue after their master’s that focus on a specific discipline. The following are AUM’s EdS degrees:

• Counseling: This CACREP-accredited program offers an in-depth study of counseling and prepares educators for advanced counseling practice and leadership positions.
• Elementary Education: This program enables educators to be confident administrators or teachers who create stimulating learning environments that cater to the needs of Alabama students.
• Instructional Leadership: Students in this program participate in hands-on online coursework and a residency to gain leadership skills for education administration and curriculum development roles.
• Instructional Technology: This program explores the technologies that provide immersive educational environments through online courses that align with ISTE coaching standards.
• Special Education: Students in this program complete online courses and a practicum as they learn to create supportive learning environments in classrooms that focus on collaborative teaching.

Additionally, those who want more degree options beyond the MEd and EdS programs have choices as well. AUM offers an online Doctorate in Education (Ed.D.) in Instructional Systems and Learning Sciences program which prepares students to utilize data in educational research, evaluate and construct effective school environments, identify and apply emerging technologies and more.

These programs provide a strong foundation in education, enabling graduates to meet the standards set by the Alabama Department of Education. AUM’s online format offers flexibility for working professionals and parents to balance their education with other responsibilities. By completing one of AUM’s online teaching and education degree programs, individuals acquire the qualifications to pursue a rewarding career in education in Alabama.