Become a Teacher

Finding Your Path 

Preparing the Garden State's teachers to enter the classroom is in our DNA. Since our inception in 1908, we've been helping power school districts across the state and providing generations of educators with the skills and experiences they need to make an impact.

Review the Pathway Comparison Table along with the questions below to choose the program for you.

I do not have a teaching certification yet. How do I start?

• If you are new to the education field or attending college for the first time: Start with our Traditional Undergraduate Route to earn your bachelor's degree alongside your New Jersey Initial Teaching Certification. Transfer students with an associate degree can complete this in as little as two years.
• If you already hold a bachelor’s degree or work as a school aide: Apply directly to our Alternate Route or MAT programs to get on the fast track to full certification.

I have a bachelor’s degree. How can I become a certified teacher?

Your best route depends on your bachelor’s degree:

• If your degree is in the subject you wish to teach, you can enter our Alternate Route program or complete a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT). These options allow you to work toward your initial New Jersey teaching certification while leveraging your existing degree.
• If your degree is in a subject that is different from what you want to teach, you can complete a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) while taking the subject area coursework you also need.

I need to work while going to school. What are my options?

Montclair offers flexible structures designed to fit your work and life commitments:

• If you are a working teacher or paraprofessional: You can enroll in evening or online graduate courses to earn your Master of Education (M.Ed.) or add certifications without stepping away from your classroom.
• If you are changing careers: Our Alternate Route program lets you work as a full-time, paid teacher while completing your required 50-hour preprofessional course and coursework for initial certification.
• If you want classroom experience right away: Dual-degree and traditional programs integrate hands-on fieldwork and clinical practice directly into your curriculum.

I am already a teacher. How can I advance my career?

• Add a specialized endorsement: Expand your credentials with in-demand certifications like Teacher of Students with Disabilities or ESL.
• Targeted skill-building: Pursue graduate certificates or specialized tracks designed to elevate your classroom impact without completing a full degree program.
• Explore Educational Services: Move beyond classroom teaching into vital school roles such as School Counseling, School Psychology, Social Work or Speech-Language Pathology.
• Explore Educational Leadership: Expand your impact by earning your Supervisor, Principal, and/or School Administrator certification.

Do I need to take any tests for certification?

Yes, most certification areas have test requirements. These requirements vary, and our academic advisors will guide you on test preparation and timing.

Note: not all certifications require praxis (ex: Special Education, Teaching English as a Second Language, and world languages require other kinds of tests.