Best Teacher Certification in Ohio In 2024

Teaching is one of the most rewarding jobs you can have. Teachers do much more than teach—they light up the future, guide our children, and help them grow into amazing adults. 

Every state has its own rules for becoming a certified educator. In Ohio, the process is governed by the Ohio Standard for Teaching Profession, which ensures you're well-prepared for the classroom.

Schools are always looking for great teachers all over the country—educators who've got the know-how and the heart to deal with kids.

But before you start shaping young minds, you need to get certified. In this guide, we’ll cover the best teacher certification options in Ohio for 2024 and share detailed insights on each.

Requirements for Becoming a Teacher In Ohio 

The state offers a clear path for aspiring educators. Here, we'll break down the steps and requirements you need to meet to become a certified teacher in Ohio.

1. Complete a state-approved bachelor’s degree with a teacher preparation component

The most common route to teacher licensure involves earning a state-approved bachelor's degree in education. This program incorporates a teacher preparation component, equipping you with both the subject-matter expertise and pedagogical skills needed to thrive in the classroom.

The typical bachelor's program takes four years. During this time, you will learn concepts such as educational theories, classroom management techniques, and curriculum development.

If you already hold a bachelor's degree in a field other than education, you can become a teacher in Ohio through an Alternative certification program.

2. Complete a student teaching placement.

In Ohio, You must complete a student teaching placement before becoming a licensed teacher. This immersive experience allows you to transition from theoretical knowledge to real-world application. 

A teaching placement helps you:

• Put theory into practice: Apply the educational theories and pedagogy you've learned in your coursework to real-life situations.
• Develop your teaching style: Discover your unique approach to classroom management, lesson planning, and student interaction.
• Refine instruction: You work alongside a seasoned mentor teacher to hone your instructional techniques and receive valuable feedback.
• Embrace diversity: Gain experience engaging with students from various backgrounds, fostering your ability to connect with all learners.
• Build confidence: This practical experience allows you to solidify your teaching skills and build confidence in your capabilities.

3. Pass the required teacher certification exams.

Depending on your subject area, you'll need to pass the Ohio Assessment for Educators  (OAE) or the Praxis Exams. These exams assess your content knowledge and teaching skills, ensuring you meet the high standards set by the state. 

You can register for tests on the Ohio Assessment for Educators (OAE) website and the ACTFL/LTI website. 

Here are other assessments that you may need to complete:

• OAE Pedagogy Assessment(s)
• OAE Content Assessment(s)
• OAE Foundations of Reading Assessment (if required)
• Praxis Subject Assessment(s) (if required)
• ACTFL/LTI Assessment(s) (if required)

4. Apply for a teaching certificate or license.

With your degree and exam results, you're ready to apply for your teaching certificate or license. This official document is your gateway to the profession, signifying that you've met all the educational and testing requirements. 

The application process involves submitting your transcripts and test scores and completing any additional paperwork required by the Ohio Department of Education in the OH|ID account.

With your teaching license, you can start looking for a teaching job. You can check job listings on the websites of specific school districts or use the Ohio Department of Education website to find jobs throughout the state.

5. Complete the Ohio Resident Educator Program.

The  Ohio Resident Educator Program is a four-year induction program that supports new teachers in Ohio as they begin their careers.

This program will mentor you, offer professional development, and a structured path to help you transition from residency to professional licensure. 

Here are the steps to complete the Ohio Resident Educator Program:

• Be employed by an Ohio school district or school and hold a valid Resident Educator license.
• Complete the  Mentoring and Instructional Support focusing on building foundational teaching skills, classroom management, and instructions in years 1 and 2.
• Complete the focused mentorship and leadership program, which focuses on  refining teaching practices and practical instruction in year 3
• Complete the Leadership and Professional Development program, which will engage you in leadership activities in year 4.
• Pass the Resident Educator Summative Assessment (RESA) and apply for a professional teaching license. 

6. Upgrade your license

Teaching is about lifelong learning. As you gain more experience and continue your education, you can upgrade your license to enjoy new opportunities and higher pay.

Upgrading your teaching license in Ohio typically involves advancing from a Professional License to a Senior Professional Educator License. 

The process involves verifying your current license status, reviewing the latest upgrade requirements, completing any outstanding coursework, and applying through the Ohio State Board of Education CORE system.

Alternative Teacher Certification in Ohio

Thinking about becoming a teacher but don't have an education degree? You can get your teaching licensure through the Ohio Teachers of Tomorrow's  Initial Pedagogical Training Institute (IPTI) and Pedagogical Development Institute(PDI) programs.

To become a certified teacher with this route, you follow these four simple steps:

1. Complete an Intensive Pedagogical Training 

The  IPTI program is your first step to getting an  Alternative Resident Educator License. It provides training in pedagogy, classroom management, and teaching methods.

The Ohio Teachers of Tomorrow IPTI program includes up to 6 months of online training. You get on-demand modules with support from expert advisors. The program is cost-effective, with just one-time payment of $625.

After completing IPTI, you'll be awarded a certificate of completion, which qualifies you to apply for the Alternative Resident Educator License.

2. Obtain your Alternative Resident Educator License 

Now, you can apply for the Alternative Resident Educator License (AREL) through the Ohio Department of Education (ODE). 

Here's how:

• Review the license types:  Choose an appropriate License type that aligns with your teaching goals and subject area.
• Complete the evaluation application: Log in to your CORE Dashboard on the ODE website and begin the online evaluation application process. This application will assess your eligibility based on your degree, GPA, and any required exams.
• Pass required exams: Depending on your chosen license type,  pass specific content area exams. The evaluation application will inform you of any necessary exams.
• Submit your application: Once you've completed the evaluation application and passed the necessary exams, submit your application to the ODE for processing.

3. Complete a Professional Development Institute 

After getting your Alternative Resident Educator License from the Ohio Department of Education, you can advance to the Ohio Professional Teaching License through the Professional Development Institute.

To be eligible for the PDI program, you must complete the IPTI and be employed and teaching in an Ohio school district on a valid Alternative Resident Educator License. You'll need to pay a one-time fee of $2,300  to enroll in the Ohio Teachers of Tomorrow PDI program.

4. Obtain your Professional Teaching License 

To apply for the Professional Teaching License, here are the steps you can follow:

• Log in to your OH|ID account; click on Educator Licensure and Records (CORE). Navigate to the My Credentials section of your CORE Dashboard. Click Action; select Add Area and start the application process.
• Review the specific requirements for the professional educator license. Ensure you’ve passed any required exams and completed the necessary coursework. And pay the professional license fee.
• Ensure you have current background checks with the State Board of Education. Submit your application to the ODE for processing.

Types of Teacher Certification in Ohio

Ohio offers a four-level system for becoming a teacher. Each license caters to different levels of experience and expertise so you can progress in your teaching career.

 Here's a breakdown of the four types of certifications:

• Resident Educator (RE) License: This is your starting point. As a new teacher, you'll begin with the RE License, which is valid for four years. You'll need a bachelor’s degree program to get valuable classroom experience and participate in Ohio's Resident Educator Program, which supports your professional growth.
• Professional Educator License: This license is earned through the Resident Educator Program or with an out-of-state license and qualifies you to lead your own classroom. You need a bachelor's degree in education (or a related field with teacher prep), passing OAE exams, and background checks.
• Senior Professional Educator License: With more teaching experience and extra training, you can apply for this License. It shows a long-term dedication to teaching and your efforts to gain more knowledge. To apply, you need a master's degree, complete any outstanding coursework, and confirm you have the latest upgrade requirements.
• Lead Professional Educator License: This License represents the highest tier within the state's four-level teacher licensure system. It's designed for educators seeking leadership roles beyond the classroom. The requirements may involve extensive experience teaching in Ohio, an advanced degree, and proof of distinguished teaching performance.

How to Renew Your Ohio Teacher Certificate

After finishing your two-year Ohio Resident Educator Program, you need to upgrade to a Professional Teaching License.

In case you don't complete the requirements for the Resident Educator (RE) Program, You can apply for a one-year extension or a two-year renewal of your RE License.

To renew your professional, Senior, or Lead Educator license, you must complete either six semester hours or 18 continuing education units (CEUs)

All renewal applications are submitted through the online Connected Ohio Records for Educators ( CORE ) system by October 1 of the expiration year. If you miss this deadline, the coursework requirement increases to nine semester hours.

The CORE system helps educators with the online applications and licensure processes.

If you hold a valid teaching license and want to add a new subject area or endorsement, you'll need the support of your employing Ohio school district. They can help you determine the necessary steps for acquiring the additional credential.

Ohio Teaching License Reciprocity

Ohio allows teachers with out-of-state teaching licenses to apply for an Ohio license using their out-of-state credentials.

Teachers with at least three school years of teaching experience and a valid out-of-state license are eligible for a 5-Year Professional Teaching License.

If you have less than two years of teaching experience, you can apply for the 2-year Resident Educator License. You must complete the Resident Educator program in Ohio as part of the license.

1-Year Out-of-State Teaching License is also available to candidates who are employed in an Ohio school and need time to fulfill the licensure exams or other Ohio-specific requirements. This license is nonrenewable.

When applying for an Ohio teaching license with out-of-state credentials, you'll need to submit the following documentation:

• Copy of valid out-of-state license: This license shows that you are already recognized as a teacher in another state.
• Proof of teaching experience: This is needed when applying for the 5-Year Professional Teaching License.
• Official transcripts: These verify your educational background and qualifications.
• Passing exam scores: Ohio requires passing scores for content area exams and professional knowledge (pedagogy) exams for educator licensure.
• Non-refundable application fee: This covers the cost of processing your application.
• Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) background check: This is a standard procedure to ensure the safety of students.
• FBI criminal background check: This is a federal requirement for all teachers.

Other Education Licenses

Besides the usual teaching licenses, Ohio has several special licenses for different roles in education. These include:

1. Administrative License – Principal

Ohio State's Principal Licensure Program trains the next generation of school principals. To enroll in this program, you must meet the following requirements;

• A master's degree and two years of experience as a teacher.
• You must take and pass Ohio Standards for Educators and Administrators and Computer Science and Computational Thinking modules.  
• You must take and pass the Ohio Assessment for Educators (OAE) 015 Educational Leadership licensure exam.

2. Pupil Services License – Social Worker

This license is for educators who want to work as school social workers. This credential allows you to support student's social and emotional needs within the school setting.

To qualify, you'll need to have the following:

• A master’s degree from an accredited college or university.
• A current Licensed Social Worker or Independent Social Worker license from the Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board.
• Complete a graduate educator program approved by the Ohio Department of Higher Education in school social work.

 3. School Business Manager License

This license enables you to handle the financial and operational aspects of a school district.

To become a school business manager, you need to complete one of two paths: 

• Finish a university program in business or a related field with some specific coursework. 
• Get field experience by completing a 300-hour internship in a school business manager's office, supervised by a licensed school business manager, or two years of experience as a business manager, supervisor, or director of business services in another organization.

4. Superintendent License

This license is for educators who would like to become superintendents. You must complete an advanced educational program in school administration and three years of experience as a principal or administrative specialist.

You also need a master's degree from an accredited university, pass the Ohio Assessment for Educators (OAE) 015 Educational Leadership licensure exam, and get approval from your educational institution.

The (OAE) 015 Educational Leadership licensure exam evaluates your readiness to become an educational leader in Ohio schools. 

5. Administrative Specialist License

This license lets you work in a central office or supervisory role. To obtain the Ohio Administrative Specialist License, you need:

• A master's degree from an accredited university.
• At least five years of relevant work experience —two years of teaching under a professional teaching license or experience under a professional pupil services license.
• Pass the Ohio Assessment for Educators (OAE) 015 Educational Leadership licensure exam. 

If you're currently working in an Ohio school district or community, you can opt for the nontraditional pathway to licensure. This option allows you to work as an administrative specialist while fulfilling the requirements for a professional administrative specialist license. 

 6. School Nurse License

The school nurse license helps you promote School health and wellness and advance academic success. To obtain a School Nurse License from the Ohio Department of Education (ODE), You need:

• A valid Ohio Registered Nurse (RN) license.
• You must complete an approved program with at least 12 semester hours in health education, physical education, and child growth and development.
• At least one year of experience as a licensed RN is required, although specific requirements may vary.
• Pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses.

7. Occupational Therapists License

As an Occupational therapist in Ohio schools, you'll help students overcome challenges that may affect their ability to participate in school activities using specific therapies and support methods. 

To obtain an Occupational Therapist license from the Ohio Department of Education (ODE), You'll need:

• A  Bachelor's or Master's degree in Occupational Therapy
• Completion of at least six months of supervised occupational therapy work experience as part of an internship under a licensed Occupational Therapist.
• Pass the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy exams if registered with the Occupational Therapist Register.
• Pass the Ohio Jurisprudence examination, which tests knowledge of Ohio laws and regulations related to occupational therapy practice.
• Passing a criminal background check.

8. Audiologist License

Audiologists work with students who have hearing issues. As a school audiologist, you'll provide training about hearing, hearing loss, and other auditory disorders for school personnel, students, and parents.

Here’s what you need to get the audiologist license in Ohio:

• A doctoral degree in audiology 
• Pass the Ohio Assessments for Educators (OAE) Audiology exam ( a state-approved exam to ensure you meet the educational standards required to work in school settings in Ohio._

The OAE Audiology exams assess knowledge and skills related to educational audiology, the impact of hearing impairments on learning and communication, as well as best practices in providing services to school-aged children

9. Speech-language Pathologist License

If you're interested in helping students with speech and language difficulties, you can acquire a speech-language Pathologist License.

To get this license in Ohio, you need:

• A master's degree in speech pathology or an equivalent qualification recognized by the Ohio Speech and Hearing Professionals Board.
• Complete a supervised clinical practicum hours. Specifically, 375 hours, at least 250 hours at the graduate level, and  25 hours dedicated to clinical observation.

You may have to take and pass the praxis exam in speech-language pathology, which assesses your skills for entry-level practice.  

10. Physical Therapist License

As a physical therapist, you'll work with students who have physical disabilities, injuries, or other conditions that affect their ability to participate in school activities. 

To get this license, you need:

• A physical therapist license from the Ohio Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, and Athletic Trainers Board.
• Graduate from an accredited physical therapy program.
• Pass the National Physical Therapy examinations and the Ohio Jurisprudence Exams.

Ohio Teacher Salary 

Teacher salaries in Ohio can vary depending on several factors. Here's a closer look at what influences your earning potential:

• Type of teaching position: For example, elementary teachers typically earn slightly less than secondary school teachers. Additionally, teachers in high-demand subject areas like STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) might command slightly higher salaries.
• Experience: The more years of teaching experience you have, the higher your salary is likely to be.
• Degree: Teachers with a Master's degree in education or a related field often earn more than those with a bachelor's degree alone.

Here are the  salaries for Ohio teachers salaries for various teaching positions in Ohio: 

• The average salary of Secondary School Teachers, except for Special and Career/Technical Education, is  $70,320.
• The average salary of Elementary School Teachers, except for Special Education, is $68,880.
• The average salary of Middle School Teachers, except for Special and Career/Technical Education, is $71,350.
• The average salary of Technical Education Teachers in Secondary School is $75,740.
• The average salary of Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary School is $69,900.

Ohio Teacher Job Outlook

The career outlook for teachers in Ohio is promising—the demand for educators on a positive job market forecast.

Specifically, Ohio is expected to see a 7% increase in secondary teaching positions from 2020 to 2030. That's a significant boost, indicating a healthy demand for teachers.

Comparing The national growth rate for secondary teaching positions, which is just 1%, Ohio's 7% is quite impressive.

Ohio is a great place to focus your teaching aspirations. The Bureau of Labor Statistics  (BLS) places Ohio as the fourth-highest state in the nation for employing secondary school teachers. Ohio is setting the stage for a thriving educational environment.

Start Pursuing Your Teaching Career in Ohio

Pursuing a career in education is an unmatched opportunity to make a lasting impact on future generations. As an educator, you can inspire and shape young minds, fostering critical thinking, creativity, and a lifelong love of learning. 

The education system is diverse and dynamic. With the variety of licenses available, you'll have the chance to choose various settings, each with unique challenges and rewards. 

What's more, the demand for passionate and dedicated teachers is ever-growing, ensuring job stability and numerous opportunities for professional development and career advancement.   

Begin your teacher certification journey in Ohio today.