Teachers are the backbone of our society. They instruct students in the skills they will need not just to function in life, but to excel. Not only do teachers help students learn math, science, technology, reading and writing, they teach social, life and interpersonal skills. They help students who suffer from trauma, emotional difficulties, learning disabilities and other hardships. They are leaders, guides and mentors as well as educators.
Like all states, Iowa has its own specific requirements to become a teacher, with basic education requirements and other steps to follow. Read about becoming a teacher in Iowa and explore what you need to do, to enter this interesting and rewarding field.
Iowa Teacher Certification Requirements
Iowa Teacher Certification Types
Iowa has three levels of certification, including initial certification, standard certification, and master educator. These levels are obtained in consecutive order as one builds up experience.
Iowa Teacher Education
The basic level of certification requires a bachelor’s degree from a certified program involving an approved preparation program for teachers which includes a human relations aspect.
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Master’s Degree Program:
While a master’s program isn’t required, most teachers do choose to pursue a master’s of arts in teaching or education. These provide higher skills and training that can increase earnings potential and ability.
Iowa Teacher Certification Exam
It is required that applicants complete Praxis subject assessment exams to prove they have the necessary knowledge to teach.
Teacher Experience
Experience in terms of a classroom internship is required for basic certification. After two years under initial certification, the applicant can pursue standard certification. After five years of standard licensure, the teacher may pursue a master educator license.
Background Check
Criminal background checks are required to obtain clearances to work with children.
Alternative Certification and Other Requirements
- Iowa Alternative Teacher Certification: Alternate pathways to certification are available for those who have a degree, but not in education. These include technical licenses, provisional licenses and teacher internship programs.
- Teacher Certification Renewal: The lower two levels of licensure are renewable if the applicant chooses not to progress to the next level. Initial certification must be renewed every two years, while standard certification is good for five years.
- Iowa Substitute Teaching: Substitute teachers in Iowa must be licensed to teach in the state, as well as having a special state substitute teaching license.
- Reciprocity: Those licensed in other states to teach can gain licensure through reciprocity, provided that they can also fill Iowa licensure requirements. This is accomplished via an application for a provisional license while the applicant completes any outstanding Iowa requirements.
Discover teacher certification programs in Iowa that are a match for you!
What Does a Teacher Do in Iowa?
Teachers are the core of our youth’s development and the gateway to the future of our world. They plan and deliver lessons in a range of subjects. They act as counselors and mentors to students who are experiencing learning, emotional, or mental health difficulties. They work with parents and administrators to set goals and benchmarks for students. They work with the administration to forward the vision of the district. They are leaders and protectors who are responsible for the safety and security of their students as well as their development.
Iowa Teacher Salary
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, teachers in Iowa make on average $55,130, and the job is expected to grow by an average of 475 openings by the year 2024.
Iowa Teacher Certification Links
- Iowa Department of Education
- Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation
- Iowa State Education Association
Teacher Certification Programs in Iowa
Teacher Certification Programs in Iowa
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Choose your area of study and receive free information about programs you are interested in. Becoming a teacher is an important decision that requires commitment, dedication, and passion. Teacher certification requirements vary by state. However, there are a number qualifications that every state requires to teach at the public school level. Request information from multiple schools to find the best program and educational opportunity for you!