What are the requirements to become certified to teach in Arizona?

To be certified to teach in Arizona, you will need a bachelor’s degree, completion of a teacher preparation program (such as the College of Education’s program), passing scores on the Arizona Educator Proficiency Exam (AEPA) subject knowledge AND professional knowledge tests, fingerprint clearance, and fees. The requirements for certification in Arizona are explained in detail by the state's Department of Education (http://www.ade.state.az.us/certification/)

The College of Education recommends individuals who have completed the Teacher Preparation Program for certification to the state. This Institutional Recommendation (IR) facilitates the certification process. The IR form and instructions are available in the College Dean’s Office. The IR form should be completed and submitted to the College Dean's Office during the student teaching semester.

How do I get fingerprint clearance?

You must have your fingerprint clearance card prior to being admitted into the teacher preparation program. Forms are available in the Office of Student Services. Also, the “Fingerprint Man” comes to campus several times a semester to do fingerprinting for students.

Individuals who complete education degree programs at the University of Arizona, Arizona State University and Northern Arizona University who wish to teach in Arizona must pass appropriate Arizona Educator Proficiency Assessments (AEPA), including a professional knowledge test and subject knowledge test(s). If you have completed an education program at another institution, you must also pass a proficiency examination in reading, grammar and mathematics. For more information, go to AEPA. (http://www.aepa.nesinc.com/)

What if I plan to teach in another state?

Teachers who apply for certification in another state will most likely find the process easier if they are already certified. We recommend that students pass the appropriate Arizona Educator Proficiency Assessment tests or contact the Department of Education on the state in which they plan to teach for recommendations.

What AEPA tests do I need to take for Arizona certification?

If you complete your education program at the University of Arizona the following applies: To be certified in elementary education, you must pass the Professional Knowledge Test-Elementary and the Subject Knowledge Test-Elementary. To be certified in secondary education, you must pass the Professional Knowledge Test-Secondary and the appropriate subject knowledge test for your academic major and/or minor. To be certified in special education, you must pass the Professional Knowledge Test-Elementary and the appropriate subject knowledge test for your concentration area.

Where do I get a registration bulletin for the AEPA tests?

Test registration bulletins are available on-line at http://www.aepa.nesinc.com/.

Where do I find study guides for the tests?

Study guides are available from the AEPA website at http://www.aepa.nesinc.com/. The Office of Student Services also has a limited number of study guides that are available on a check-out basis.

What material is on the tests?

The study guide contains the test objectives as some sample questions. If you are admitted to the College of Education, you may pick up one free copy of the test objectives in the Office of Student Services.