Florida Alternative Certification Programs

Alternative teacher certification programs have become widely used across the United States as a way to fill the gaps in high-needs subject areas. Florida’s education system has developed an alternative certification program that is used in some capacity among many of the school districts across the state. This program allows individuals with a bachelor’s degree in another area to become teachers through an alternative method.

Program Name: District Alternative Certification Program

Program Mission and Overview:

This program is designed to provide training to professionals with a bachelor’s degree so they can earn their permanent teaching certification in Florida. This is an on-the-job training program that puts teachers in the classroom. In most cases, college coursework is not required to complete this program.

The program utilizes a number of training tools, including:

• A survival training seminar
• A CD-ROM
• A support team (mentor, tutor and building-level administrator)
• Online learning activities
• An action plan
• Assessments and testing

Eligibility and How to Apply:

• Candidates must have a bachelor’s degree in a related field from an accredited institution.
• Candidates must pass a content competency test in their chosen subject area to obtain a temporary teaching certificate and continue with the process.
• Candidates should contact the school district where they are interested in working for the specific eligibility requirements of that district.
  The application process varies by school district but typically starts with obtaining employment as a teacher in the district.

Financial Information:

Because this program does not require candidates to complete college-level coursework, the only costs associated with the program are related to testing and licensing fees.

Program Name: Educator Preparation Institutes

Program Mission and Overview:
The Educator Preparation Institutes is a group of competency-based institution programs that assess candidates’ strengths and weaknesses so that they can better prepare for the responsibilities of being a teacher.

Eligibility and How to Apply:

• Candidates who are interested in this program must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
• Candidates must meet all other teacher requirements set forth by the school district where they want to teach.

Those who are interested in applying can find a list of participating institutions here.

Financial Information:

Tuition costs and fees vary depending on the institution and the number of course credits required to complete the work. Each institution offers its own financial aid packages, which can include scholarships, grants, and federal or private student loans.

---

Learn more about how to become a teacher in Florida.