Want to become a teacher in the great state of Oklahoma? If so, you have come to the right place. Below you will find a short article that lists the steps to becoming a teacher in Oklahoma.

Step 1: Complete an Approved Teacher Preparation Program

To teach in the U.S., educators must hold at least an undergraduate degree. The state of Oklahoma also requires students to complete a state-approved teacher education program to receive certification. Oklahoma does not have a particular course or semester-hour requirements, but every college or university teacher education program will have its own specific prerequisites, curriculum, and requirements for graduation. Contact your teacher education program or the Oklahoma State Department of Education for more information. A list of accredited teacher education programs in Oklahoma can be found through the Oklahoma Office of Educational Quality and Accountability. 

Teacher education programs from sanctioned colleges or universities prepare students to become teachers through challenging courses, as well as practical field experiences. Curriculum most commonly emphasizes foundational knowledge and skill, pedagogy, and educational technology. Also, teacher education programs seek to prepare students to research, create,  and implement learning experiences in their field of study. Practical field experiences allow students to apply what they have learned in a classroom setting through field observations, student teaching, and internships.

Step 2: Complete the Required Exams

To become licensed to teach in Oklahoma, you must pass three competency-based teacher exams:

The Oklahoma Professional Teaching Exam (OPTE).

The Oklahoma General Education Test (OGET)

The Oklahoma Subject Area Test (OSAT);

Find out more about teacher licensure in the state of Oklahoma by visiting the Certification Examinations for Oklahoma Educators website.

Step 3: Submit an Oklahoma Teaching Credential Application

After you have completed all of the licensure requirements for Oklahoma educator certification, you can apply for your initial Standard Certificate. You may start this process and pay your application fees online.  Send the requested documents to Oklahoma State Department of Education, Professional Standards Section-Room 212, 2500 North Lincoln Blvd, Oklahoma City, OK 73105-4599.