For individuals who have already completed a bachelor’s degree
In order to obtain renewable teacher certification in the state of Georgia, one must complete an approved teacher education program. In most cases, this usually means becoming enrolled as a degree-seeking student at an accredited educational institution. Colleges and universities vary in the programs they offer, the courses required, and the length of time to complete.
Georgia State University offers several options for basic preparation that will result in initial certification in Georgia. Since you have already earned a bachelor’s degree, you may be interested in graduate work at this time. Graduate programs that include basic preparation and result in initial certification in Georgia are:
A. Urban Accelerated Certification and Master’s Program
Georgia State University’s Urban Accelerated Certification and Master’s program is a two-year alternative certification program at the Master's degree level for individuals who have an undergraduate degree in an area other than education and are interested in teaching in urban elementary schools.
Year One:
Candidates in our program spend the first year as full-time students taking courses and completing field experiences in schools in the metro Atlanta area. At the end of the first year, if the candidate has successfully met all requirements, she or he is recommended to the state for certification in Early Childhood Education (Pre-K through 5th grade) with an English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Endorsement.
Year Two:
During the second year of the program, candidates have full-time paid teaching positions in urban elementary schools in the Atlanta Metro area and take classes at night to complete their Master's in Education degree.
For more information about the Urban Accelerated Certification & Master’s (UACM) Program, contact the Department of Early Childhood Education at 404-413-8020 and visit the program website.
B. Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.; also referred to as TEEMS) in English, mathematics, science or social studies (grades 6 - 12), ESOL /Reading (Grades K-12 ) or middle level education (grade 4 -8). The secondary education programs lead to initial certification and are designed for future English, math, science, or social studies educators who have completed a bachelor’s degree with a major in the content field of the intended program. The ESOL/Reading program is also offered for individuals with a bachelor degree in any area who are interested in teaching English as a second language. The Middle Level Education programs are designed for future educators with a background in math/science or language arts/social studies. Further information can be obtained from the Department of Middle - Secondary and Instructional Technology or at the M.A.T./TEEMS information site (includes information session dates).
C. Master of Education (M.Ed.) in special education. Students may select from a variety of special education fields for certification in pre-school through grade 12, through either a M.E.D. program or non-degree initial teacher certification program. These programs are described in depth here. Part-time participation is allowed; program completion time on average is three years.
D. Master of Education (M.Ed.) in school counseling. This program offers preparation for school counselors in pre-school through grade eight or grades nine through 12. Program completion leads to a service certificate in school counseling rather than a teaching certificate. The program begins each summer, and is described in depth at the School Counseling program page. The school counseling program is offered through the Department of Counseling and Psychological Services (CPS). The department conducts several information sessions each semester -- click here for dates and registration information. -8010 to register, to learn the session location, and to obtain dates of sessions.