Utah offers multiple levels and pathways to certification as a teacher. All are overseen by the state’s Office of Education and require the right experience, education, testing and background check requirements. The state takes teacher certification very seriously, rightly seeing teachers as bearing responsibility for the future of our world, teaching young people the skills in both academics and life that they will need to excel as future businesspeople, inventors, innovators and even world leaders. Read about the certification requirements for teachers in Utah, and how you can enter this challenging but fulfilling career.
Utah Teacher Certification Requirements
Utah Teacher Certification Types
Utah has three licensing levels. Those who first enter the field will do so at Level 1, and within three years must advance to Level 2. Level 3, the highest certification, is available for those with advanced education and credentials.
Utah Teacher Education
A bachelor’s degree plus completion of an educator preparation program is required to gain level one licensure.
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Master’s Degree Program:
Though not necessary for level 1 certification, Master’s-level education can be an important step on the road to further licensure and qualifications. Those seeking Level 3 certification must be level 2 licensed, plus have a doctorate or NBPTS certification.
Utah Teacher Certification Exam
Utah uses the Praxis exams for candidate certification. You must pass the core skills and subject assessment exams.
Teacher Experience
Student teaching experience will be part of your educator preparation. Also, Level 2 licensure requires three years of teaching.
Background Check
Fingerprinting and criminal background checks are required to be cleared to work with minors in Utah.
Alternative Certification and Other Requirements
- Utah Alternative Teacher Certification: Utah does offer an ARL, or Alternative Routes to Certification, path. This requires specific preparation coursework and a professional growth plan set by the Office of Education.
- Teacher Certification Renewal: Level 1 licensure is good for three years, after which it must be renewed or upgraded to Level 2. Either path requires 100 hours of continuing education. Upgrading to level 2 also requires completing the Entry Years Enhancement (EYE) requirements. Level 3 licensure requires a doctorate in education or NBPTS national certifications.
- Utah Substitute Teaching: There are no state requirements for substitute teaching save for criminal background checks and a high school diploma.
- Reciprocity: Reciprocity may be granted to teachers from other states on a case-by-case basis, and those with less than three years of experience may be required to complete the EYE requirements.
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What Does a Teacher Do in Utah?
As in other states, the primary duty of teachers is to deliver educational content and evaluate student progress. This is accomplished through lesson planning, lecturing and hands-on activities as well as testing and papers. Teachers must serve as mentors and examples to their students, which requires sensitivity and compassion.
They may need to intervene on behalf of students with personal, emotional, mental health, or behavioral problems. Significant hours may need to be spent outside of school grading papers and exams, chaperoning school activities, attending meetings, and working with parents and administrators on behalf of children. Finally, they must be advocates for the educational process at all times.
Utah Teacher Salary
Utah stands to be a great place to put down roots as an educator, with an impressive 20.7% expected career growth over the next decade. The average salary is higher than in many other states as well, hovering around $54,000 annually, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This salary could shift based on the level of education and licensure, geographic region, and grade level.
Utah Teacher Certification Links
Teacher Certification Programs in Utah
Teacher Certification Programs in Utah
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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!