Teacher Certification & Licensure
At National Heritage Academies® (NHA®), you can become a teacher with a bachelor’s degree and a passion. Our team of credentialing consultants are experts in the different pathways to obtain licensure. We will assist with finding the right program, identifying required tests, and ensuring you are supported and confident throughout your certification journey!
Your Path to the Classroom
Teacher Certification Requirements
Once you accept a position at NHA, your assigned credentialing consultant will contact you with your specific certification requirements and deadlines. While these requirements vary by state, there are several requirements that apply across all states.
Enroll in a Certification Program
- Choose either a traditional or alternative certification pathway. For more information on each option, see the Traditional vs. Alternative Pathways section below.
- Certifications are issued by content area and grade level, so be sure to enroll in a program that aligns with your classroom placement.
- Enrollment requirements vary by state, so make sure to check your state's specific guidelines.
- Once enrolled, submit proof of enrollment to your credentialing consultant.
- NHA offers discounted partnership programs. For more information, see the Partnership Programs section below.
Pass All Required State Licensure Exams
- Licensure exams are specific to your content area and must align with your certification program and classroom placement.
- Some alternative certification programs require you to pass these exams before enrolling.
- NHA offers test prep resources. For more information, see the Testing Resources section below.
Apply for Certification on the State’s Department of Education Website
- Each state has an online licensure system where educators can apply for certification.
- Depending on the state, your credentialing consultant may apply on your behalf.
- Work closely with your credentialing consultant to determine your role in the application process.
Your Path to the Classroom
Traditional vs. Alternative Certification Pathways
Your path to the classroom is unique. Whether you choose a traditional or alternative certification route, there are flexible options designed to fit your experience, schedule, and career goals. Explore the pathways below to find the one that’s right for you.
Traditional Certification
- Bachelor's or master's degree in education or teaching
- Student teaching placement through your university
- Pass state licensure exams after graduation
- Full-time or part-time options, typically completed within two to six years
- Typically follows a semester schedule
- University tuition costs
Alternative Certification
- Certification-only program in your teaching field
- Job-embedded student teaching
- Pass state licensure exams before enrollment
- Part-time, flexible options that are typically completed within one to three years
- Rolling start dates throughout the year or scheduled cohorts
- Lower program costs
Out-of-State Educators
Transferring Your Teaching License
Do you currently hold a teaching license in another state? You may be eligible to transfer your credentials through license reciprocity, also known as endorsement. Many states provide streamlined pathways to help out-of-state teachers obtain licensure.
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No. While many states provide paths to transfer a license, each state sets its own requirements. These may include additional exams, practice hours, educational requirements, or training. Please see your state page for specific details.
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This depends on the state. Some states offer permits or waivers that allow educators to teach on while waiting for their license to be issued. Please contact your credentialing consultant for further guidance.
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No. You can hold active licenses in multiple states, as long as you meet each state's renewal requirements and pay any associated fees.
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Although requirements vary by state, the most commonly requested documents include:
- Official transcripts
- Passing test score reports
- Varification of teaching experience
- Evaluation ratings
Teacher Certification Support
Support for Your Certification Journey
Maintaining Your License
Teacher Certification Renewal Requirements
Employees in positions that require certification must maintain and renew their credentials to remain compliant. Renewal requirements may vary by state.
Once you have accepted a position with NHA, your credentialing consultant will provide you with state-specific renewal requirements.
We Invest in You
Certification Partnership Programs
NHA partners with several colleges and alternative certification programs to offer reduced-cost enrollment options for uncertified educators.
Support for Educators
Funding Your Certification
Investing in your career as an educator doesn't have to be overwhelming. A variety of federal and state programs are available to support your journey through tuition reimbursement, grants, and scholarships.
Reimbursement
NHA offers tuition reimbursement to help offset the cost of your education:
- Up to $1,000 per year for eligible employees
- Up to $6,000 per year for Deans
For questions, please contact tuition@nhaschools.com.
Grants
Grants are a form of "gift aid" that do not need to be repaid.
They are typically awarded based on your field of study or your commitment to teaching in high-need subject areas.
Scholarships
Many state agencies and private organizations offer scholarships to help cover tuition, books, and fees. These awards may be based on financial need, merit, or area of study.
Test Prep Support
Certification Testing Resources
Earning your certification is a major milestone, and NHA is here to support you every step of the way. The following test prep resources are available to help teachers pursuing certification feel confident and prepared for exam day.
Testing Voucher Code
Each teacher is eligible for one test voucher per required certification exam to cover testing fees.
- Vouchers are issued as coupon codes and must be obtained prior to registering for the exam.
Tutoring Subscription
Each teacher is eligible to receive a one-time, four-month tutoring subscription to Study.com. This platform includes:
- Engaging video lessons
- Practice quizzes
- Full-length practice tests designed to identify areas for improvement prior to testing