Georgia Teacher Certification

How to Become a Teacher in Georgia

There are several routes to acquiring Georgia teacher certification to start a career as teacher in the state of Georgia. You may either complete a state-approved teacher preparation program and pass the Georgia Assessments for the Certification of Educators (GACE); or seek certification through one of several available alternative routes.

Spotlight School

DeVry University

Popular Programs:

• Master's-Education
• Graduate Certificate-Management of Education Corporation/Corporate Training Divisions
• Graduate Certificate-Education Leadership
• Graduate Certificate-Curriculum Leadership

Georgia Teacher Education Requirements

Individuals seeking a Georgia teaching certificate through the traditional certification route must attend an accredited educational institute approved by the state and complete a teacher preparation program which leads to a Bachelor’s degree or higher in Early Childhood, Elementary, Secondary, or Special Education. This route leads to what Georgia refers to as a “Clear Renewable Certificate.” Candidates for Georgia teaching certification who have a bachelor’s degree or higher in a content area but have not completed an approved teacher preparation program may complete a post-baccalaureate certification program to obtain a Clear Renewable Certificate.

Profiles of Schools with an Education Degree Program

Emory University: Emory University in Atlanta is home to the Division of Educational Studies, which is housed in the College of Arts and Sciences. The Division of Educational Studies confers several degrees at the undergraduate and graduate levels. The most popular degree is the Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT), which is designed to give students a graduate degree along with their initial teaching credentials. The division is comprised of world class faculty members that engage in scholarly research as well as engaging instruction to education students. The Division of Educational Studies offers students an interdisciplinary mixture of coursework from a variety of academic disciplines in order to provide students with a well-rounded educational experience. The Department’s main mission is to continue to reform and improve education with a special emphasis on urban and comparative education issues.

Georgia Teacher Testing Requirements

In 2006, the Georgia Department of Education began requiring educators to take and pass the Georgia Assessments for the Certification of Educators (GACE) in order to become certified to teach in the state of Georgia. The testing objectives are compatible with both state and national standards and are designed to assess the candidates’ readiness to teach effectively in Georgia public schools.

Georgia Teacher Salary and Jobs

Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics as of May 2011.

Georgia Teacher Interview

Interview with Sharon Taylor, President of the Georgia Association of Mathematics Teacher Educators

School Programs for Becoming a Teacher in Georgia

Request free information from the following schools to learn more about your options for choosing a teacher degree program. We recommend you: Request information from one or more of these schools

California University of Pennsylvania

Popular Programs:

• MA in Teaching: Advanced Studies in Secondary Education- National Board Preparation
• Early Childhood Education (Certification Only)
• Master of Education in Early Childhood Education
• Superintendent Letter of Eligibility (SLE)
• And more...

University of Phoenix

Popular Programs:

• B.S. in Education / Elementary Education
• A.A. in Elementary Education
• M.A. in Education/Elementary Teacher Education
• M.A. in Education/Secondary Teacher Education
• And more...

Brandman University Online

Popular Programs:

• MA in Education (Leadership in Early Childhood Education)
• BA in Early Childhood Education
• MA in Educational Leadership and Administration (Tier 1)
• MA in Education with Instructional Technology Emphasis
• And more...

Keiser University Campus

Popular Programs:

• Education, MS
• Master of Science in Education with a specialization in Teaching and Learning (Online Only)
• Master of Science in Education with a specialization in Career College Administration (Online Only)
• Master of Science in Education with a specialization in Leadership (Online Only)

Locations: Tallahassee

Colorado Technical University Online

Popular Programs:

• Doctor of Management - Graduate Level Instructional Practices
• Doctor of Management - Private Sector Higher Education Leadership

Frequently Asked Questions about Becoming a Teacher in Georgia

Question: How do I become a substitute teacher in Georgia?

Answer: The state of Georgia only requires that substitute teachers have a high school diploma and pass a background check. Each district may have more requirements, such as a college degree or teacher certification. To get a job as a substitute, you must apply to a district and find out what the requirements are. http://www.doe.k12.ga.us/Finance-and-Business-Operations/Human-Resources/Pages/JobDetails.aspx?Jid=5

Schools with Teaching Degree Programs in Georgia

Agnes Scott College
141 E. College Ave
Decatur, GA 30030-3797
(404) 471-6000
www.agnesscott.edu/admission

Albany State University
504 College Dr.
Albany, GA 31705
(229) 430-4600
www.asurams.edu/admissions/

Armstrong Atlantic State University
11935 Abercorn St
Savannah, GA 31419-1997
(912) 344-2806
www.admissions.armstrong.edu/

Atlanta Metropolitan College
1630 Metropolitan Parkway
Atlanta, GA 30310-4498
(404) 756-4000
www.atlm.edu

Augusta State University
2500 Walton Way
Augusta, GA 30904-2200
(706) 737-1400
www.aug.edu/admissions/

Berry College
2277 Martha Berry Hwy NW
Mount Berry, GA 30149
(706) 232-5374
www.berry.edu/admissions

Brenau University
500 Washington Street SE
Gainesville, GA 30501-3668
(770) 534-6299

Brewton-Parker College
201 David-Eliza Fountain Circle
Mount Vernon, GA 30445
(912) 583-2241
www.bpc.edu/admissions/index.htm

Columbus State University
4225 University Ave
Columbus, GA 31907-5645
(706) 507-8800
www.columbusstate.edu/admissions.php

Covenant College
14049 Scenic Highway
Lookout Mountain, GA 30750-4164
(706) 820-1560
www.covenant.edu/admissions

Emmanuel College-Franklin Springs
181 Springs St
Franklin Springs, GA 30639
(706) 245-7226

Empire Beauty School-Gwinnett
1455 Pleasant Hill Road
Lawrenceville, GA 30044-3045
(800) 223-3271

Fort Valley State University
1005 State University Dr
Fort Valley, GA 31030-4313
(478) 825-6211

Georgia College & State University
231 W Hancock Street
Milledgeville, GA 31061
(478) 445-2770
www.gcsu.edu/admissions/

Georgia Southern University
Hwy 301 South
Statesboro, GA 30460
(912) 478-5391
admissions.georgiasouthern.edu/

Student Review: “Georgia Southern has an amazing childhood program. They allow you to start interning within your first major class. The courses are not very difficult. They teach you what you need to know then allow you to apply it. It is not very challenging. Most students make it through the program because of this. Before you graduate you have to intern in a classroom. There are many elementary schools in the area so you do not have to worry about traveling far for these internships. Overall, I am very satisfied with my education at Georgia Southern and believe they produce wonderful and efficient teachers.” -Jennifer W., student at Georgia Southern University

Student Review: “My college experience was mediocre at best. I loved the school I attended and the friends I met along the way but the curriculum was a bit flawed in my opinion. Even though there were many out of school opportunitiies, the classes were challenging and the professors would really help to push you which I thought was a good thing, but I wish more classes were geared towards how to interact with children at all different age groups. All of that experience came as a student teacher for only a semester which I didn’t believe was enough. But my degree got me an awesome job so it is hard for me to complain.” -Patrick B., student at Georgia Southern University

Student Review: “I am currently enrolled at Georgia Southern University as a sophomore. My first year at school was one of the best experiences of my life to date. The school has a lot of options to get involved; I chose to go through greek rush and joined the Alpha Tau Omega fraternity. The teachers were above par as far as I’m concerned. Never did I have a teacher not show up for a class and the lectures were almost always entertaining. The campus is beautiful and the meal plans have plenty of options to stay healthy. One of my favorite things about Georgia Southern is the RAC or recreation center. I am looking forward to the next couple years at GSU.” -Robert C., student at Georgia Southern University

Georgia Southwestern State University
800 Georgia Southwestern State University Dr.
Americus, GA 31709-4693
(229) 928-1279

Georgia State University
33 gilmer st
Atlanta, GA 30303-3083
(404) 413-2000
www.gsu.edu/es/admissions.html

Student Review: “Campus life is a lot of fun! Everyone is really nice, and will stop what they’re doing to answer your questions. The faculty is also very helpful, contrary to what many high school teachers say, many of the Georgia State professors will make time for any hard working student to assist them in any area they are struggling in. The environment is also amazing. You’re surrounded by the city of Atlanta and have the opportunity to experience city life while still being in a safe campus environment.” -Dylan S., student at Georgia State University

Heart of Georgia Technical College
560 Pinehill Rd
Dublin, GA 31021
(478) 275-6589
www.heartofgatech.edu

Kennesaw State University
1000 Chastain Rd
Kennesaw, GA 30144-5591
(770) 423-6000
www.kennesaw.edu/admissions/

Student Review: “The mathematics education program at Kennesaw State has been a pivotal driver of community engagement and national stewardship in the training of its students for the role of educating the nation’s youth. The program is centered, not upon grading and state testing, but creating knowledgeable, well rounded students that can integrate the principle taught in class to real world scenarios. Through this, the program has taught me, as well as the other students, the skill necessary to drive critical thinking in the classrooms and bring global perspectives of the world to America’s youth. Through this education, I believe the school has taught the responsibilities are not bound to the textbook but to the principles of engagement in national and global affairs. The program has been a great driver in this community in particular through its dedication to quality and neighborhood engagement of its future educators. On the downside, I think the program fails to address the issues that are bound to be found in modern classrooms, such as discipline and student laziness that will no doubt interrupt the operations of any classroom. Overall the program has all the principals to ensure a quality environment for learning and that has most definitely been accomplished.” -Mason B., student at Kennesaw State University

LaGrange College
601 Broad St.
Lagrange, GA 30240-2999
(706) 880-8000
www.lagrange.edu/admission/index.html

Macon State College
100 College Station Dr
Macon, GA 31206-5145
(478) 471-2700
www.maconstate.edu/admissions

Mercer University
1400 Coleman Avenue
Macon, GA 31207
(478) 301-2700
www.gomercer.com/

Student Review: “Overall, my experience at Mercer University was decent. The campus was intimate, beautiful, and historical. Many of the people on campus are friendly, and generally they meet you with a smile and a subtle willingness to help. There are many school-sponsored activities that encourage students to get involved and network with each other, which is very important considering that we are in an evolving job market. I met a lot of colleagues with whom I continue to interact. The professors there were personable, well-organized, and willing to assist students both in the classroom and outside of the classroom. One of the main improvements that the school could make would be to streamline a lot of the administrative processes like financial aid and registration. Also, I think that Mercer University should do more to ensure continued success in its alumnae.” Ta’Wanda T., student at Mercer University

Student Review: “Mercer University is a small private college in Macon, GA. The campus is very old and beautiful. About 9,000 students attend Mercer. I find that the professors are very helpful due to the small class sizes. Its much more of a personal learning experience. The dorms are somewhat small and old but there are also dorms that are brand new and nice. The food on campus is ran by a company of which all the workers are friendly and cook pretty well. Theres also a Chickfila and Subway on campus in the university center which also includes a cafe, gym, basketball arena, and study areas. Overall Mercer is a very nice, prestigious private school that is well worth the expensive cost.” -Kevin B., student at Mercer University

North Georgia College & State University
82 College Circle
Dahlonega, GA 30597-1001
(706) 864-1400
www.ngcsu.edu/enrollment/admissions/index.shtml

Paine College
1235 15th St
Augusta, GA 30901-3182
(706) 821-8200
www.paine.edu/Admissions/

Piedmont College
165 Central Ave
Demorest, GA 30535-0010
(706) 778-3000
www.piedmont.edu/prospect/index.html

Reinhardt College
7300 Reinhardt College Circle
Waleska, GA 30183-2981
(770) 720-5600
www.reinhardt.edu/Future-Students/Admissions/index.html

Savannah College of Art and Design
342 Bull St
Savannah, GA 31402-3146
(912) 525-5000
www.scad.edu/admission/apply/index.cfm

Shorter College
315 Shorter Ave
Rome, GA 30165
(706) 291-2121
admissions.shorter.edu/

South Georgia College
100 W College Pk Dr
Douglas, GA 31533-5098
(912) 260-4200
www.sgc.edu/prospective/admissions/index.html

Toccoa Falls College
325 Chapel Drive
Toccoa Falls, GA 30598
(706) 886-6831
www.tfc.edu/Admissions-Home.html

University of Georgia
Athens, GA 30602
(706) 542-3000
www.uga.edu/admissions/

Student Review: “The College of Education at the University of Georgia has been an excellent experience. The university has excellent facilities such as computer labs, large classrooms, and and entire building devoted to education. You can tell that the faculty are truly passionate about education and strive to instill that passion into their students. They offer a variety of classes that emphasize different aspects of teaching so that you are able to get as specific as you like. The school offered many internships and job opportunities to get you going right after college. The one aspect that I think could be changed is that the building and the technology in it is somewhat older and definitely could use a face lift.” -Marissa M., student at University of Georgia

Student Review: “While the University of Georgia does not have the best reputation (being one of the top ten party schools in America), that reputation actually has a positive side. The school’s promotion of social activities can be utilized as great opportunities to make friends and establish connections. While the quality of education is considered from the outside to not be outstanding, I would classify the content to simply be on par with the average four year university – it isn’t Harvard or Georgia Tech. Even though the University of Georgia isn’t outstanding in its education overall, certain schools do stand out.” -Christian P., student at University of Georgia

Student Review: “The University of Georgia and its 35,000 students is everything I could have hoped for to truly enjoy my college experience. I’ve completed two years now and have loved every minute. There is nothing better than a Saturday Between the Hedges and the adrenaline rush that you feel at Sanford Stadium. However, being there for an upset at a basketball game in Stegeman is a close second. The food is to die for but could definitely be less expensive. The campus is beautiful at any time of the year, and even living off campus in my apartment complex has been a wonderful and unique experience.” -Tiffany B., student at University of Georgia

University of West Georgia
1601 Maple St
Carrollton, GA 30118-0001
(678) 839-5000

Student Review: “My time at the University of West Georgia has been an invaluable learning experience. I am currently a junior and majoring in Early Childhood Education. Since a freshmen, West Georgia’s education department has went above and beyond to help me excel in this field. The teachers have been invaluable to me. One teacher stayed past her office hours on numerous occasions to go over classwork with me. For example, I had a major fear of public speaking which is important to any teacher. We stayed until nine o’clock at night going over note cards and techniques to keep me from being anxious. Even though she was not obligated to do this, she made sure I had the confidence to present my project. Faculty and students here do their best to welcome future teachers and connect on a personal level.” -Cory B., student at University of West Georgia

Valdosta State University
1500 N Patterson
Valdosta, GA 31698
(229) 333-5800
www.valdosta.edu/admissions/

Wesleyan College
4760 Forsyth Rd
Macon, GA 31210-4462
(478) 477-1110
www.wesleyancollege.edu/Default.aspx?TabId=79

Page edited by Charles Sipe.