Washington Teacher Certification

Teaching Programs in Washington

So you want to earn your Washington Teacher Certification? Here are the step by step instructions to get started:

Traditional Approach for the Washington Teacher Certification

1. Earn your Bachelors Degree or higher from an accredited university. If you already have a bachelors degree, then be sure to request more information for your Master’s Degree right away
2. Teacher Preparations: This will include teacher prep courses, student teaching, and other types of internships. In order to receive a Washington Teacher Certification, you must have some experience in teaching, even if it’s unpaid.
3. Pass the following exams
   1. Washington Educator Skills Test (West-B) - (800) 784-4999
   2. Subject Matter exam (West-E) - (800) 772-9476
4. Order fingerprint cards from the Dept. of Education and clearance through the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI)
5. Submit the following:
   • Completed Application
   • Official Transcripts of all degrees and credits you have earned
   • Application and finger print fees
   • Call (360) 725-6000
6. Do you want to renew your Washington Teacher Certification?
   • Apply for your renewal

Alternative Approach for a Washington Teacher Certification

Alternatively, you can still teach in Washington before you complete the teacher education program.

1. Obviously you must still earn your Bachelors Degree from an accredited university. Ideally, you should always continue your education in efforts to earn a Master’s degree.
2. Five years of work experience
3. Pass the following exams
   1. Washington Educator Skills Test (West-B) - (800) 784-4999
   2. Subject Matter exam (West-E) - (800) 772-9476
4. Chose the type of alternative certification that applies to you

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