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College of Education
Office of Educator Preparation

How It Works: Educator Certification

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  • What is the Office of Educator Preparation?

    • Welcome! We are thrilled you are considering Texas State University for your teacher certification. The Office of Educator Preparation collaborates with several departments on campus to guide candidates through our university-based Educator Preparation Program (EPP).

      It is important to note that many entities are interested in who becomes a teacher: the federal government, state government, universities, accrediting bodies, school districts, parents, etc. 

      The laws and rules for educator certification are written and regulated by the entities listed below, and the Office of Educator Preparation (OEP) implements the laws and rules created by these institutions:

      • The U.S. Department of Education
      • The State Board of Educator Certification (SBEC)
      • The Texas Education Agency (TEA)
      • The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board
      • The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS)
      • Texas State University offices of Undergraduate and Graduate Admissions
      • The colleges of Applied Arts, Education, Fine Arts and Communication, Liberal Arts, and Science and Engineering

    • Alleged violations of the Texas Educators’ Code of Ethics in PK-12 settings during any EPP-related experience (e.g., field experience, observations, practica, clinical practice, service learning) are thoroughly reviewed on a case-by-case basis by the Director of the OEP. The review includes interviews with relevant parties, including the candidate(s), and examination of documents, communications, and other evidence.  If the preponderance of evidence indicates a violation of the Texas Educator’s Code of Ethics has occurred, the Director, in consultation with program faculty and administrators, will determine a course of action appropriate to the nature and severity of the violation. Decision options include (a) the candidate may continue in the program with a monitored growth plan or (b) the candidate is dismissed from the program. A degree-seeking candidate who is dismissed from the educator preparation program may be given the option to complete the degree without certification.  Candidates may appeal the OEP Director’s decision to the Dean of the College of Education whose decision is final.   

  • How long does it take to become a certified teacher?

    • Depending on your program and certification area, it can take anywhere from 2 years to 4 or more years to earn certification. 

      • For more information about how long each program might take, visit Program Length.

  • How much does it cost to become certified?

    • Costs include University Tuition and Fees as well as state and program fees. 

      • For more information about how much it costs to become certified, visit Program Costs.

  • What certificates are available through Texas State University?

    • Texas State University offers a variety of certificates for grades K-12 as well as student services certificates and principal and superintendent certification. 

  • How do I get started?

  • Apply!