Computer Science Teacher Certification (Online)

  • Teacher Certification
A student works at a computer on the campus of Montclair State University.

Want to inspire the next generation of coders, creators, and problem-solvers? Montclair’s online Computer Science Teacher Certification gives you the skills to bring computer science to life in your classroom—no prior tech background required.

This flexible, 15-credit online program is designed for educators who want to confidently teach computer science at the elementary or secondary level. You’ll build a strong foundation in programming, computing systems, data, and digital literacy, while exploring how to design inclusive, engaging instruction for all learners.

Whether you want to integrate CS into your current subject area or transition into a dedicated computer science role, this certificate helps you do it with confidence and creativity. You’ll gain hands-on experience with tools and platforms students love and develop strategies to make computing accessible and exciting.

The best part? You can complete the program entirely online while earning a credential that sets you apart in a fast-growing, high-demand field.

If you’re interested in diving deeper, you may also be interested in our Master of Education in Teaching for Equity and Justice. Course credits from this Computer Science Teacher Certification will apply towards our 30-credit MEd program.

If you’re ready to empower your students through computer science, this is your opportunity to lead the way.

Get Your Certification Online

Take advantage of Montclair’s flexible online offerings and get your certification fast – in as little as one year.

Courses are offered in an asynchronous online format. With one to two courses offered per 7-14 week session, you can complete within 3 semesters. 

See the curriculum.

Admission Requirements

  • Equivalent of a U.S. bachelor's degree.
  • Applicants with non-U.S. degrees: Please visit the international applicants page to review U.S. degree equivalency information.
  • Minimum undergraduate GPA: 3.0
  • *F1/J1 visa seeking students are not eligible for this program.

Application Checklist

  • Application Deadline: Rolling admission.
  • Online Application: Submit application and $60 non-refundable fee (or waiver if applicable).
  • Transcript: One from each college attended.
  • Standardized Test Scores: Not required.
  • Resume: Required.
  • Teacher Certification: A copy of your P3, K6, or Subject-Area Standard Teacher Certification, if seeking New Jersey State certification.
  • Online Computer Science Teacher Certification FAQs

*Please note that out-of-state certified applicants may apply but will not be recommended to the New Jersey Department of Education for Computer Science Teacher certification.

Computer Science Teacher FAQs

The Department of Teaching and Learning has compiled answers to the most frequently asked questions by prospective students for the online Computer Science Teacher Certification. If you are unable to find the answer to your question(s) please contact Montclair Online at online@montclair.edu.

Yes. This program has been approved by the NJDOE as a certification program and leads to an endorsement in Computer Science (Endorsement Code: 1820) upon completion of the coursework and Praxis II for Computer Science. Students entering this program already must hold a New Jersey initial standard instructional certificate in an endorsement area (e.g. early childhood, elementary, P-12 secondary/subject). This program is intended for educators seeking to enhance their knowledge, skills, and practices in computer science education. Individuals not pursuing New Jersey Computer Science certification may enroll in individual courses or complete the full 15-credit program to advance their professional expertise. If you are seeking New Jersey Computer Science certification and currently hold a New Jersey standard instructional certificate in an endorsement area outside of computer science or meet reciprocity requirements, you will need to successfully complete the 15-credit program and pass the Praxis II in Computer Science Content Knowledge (5652). Consult the NJDOE Test Requirements for Certification in New Jersey for details on this certification. Please reach out directly to the Graduate Program Coordinator, Dr. Sumi Hagiwara, for additional details.

Yes. You never have to set foot on campus. Courses are offered asynchronously so you will not need to be online at a specific time. Instructors will be available for synchronous weekly office hours.

We offer affordable tuition rates for Online programs. The university posts the tuition for the upcoming school year during the summer, typically in July.

No, not for the Online Program. In-state and out-of-state students are charged the same tuition.

Students can start the program in fall, spring or summer. Courses are offered asynchronously online and typically in 7-week sessions. CSIT 500, Computer Science Principles, is offered online during the summer in a 14-week session.

Yes. We welcome out-of-state students to our program. Generally, each state has requirements for teacher certification. If you are seeking certification in a state other than New Jersey, you should contact your state’s department of education to determine their requirements for computer science certification.

We have multiple starts within each application term with courses typically beginning every 7 weeks. Interested applicants can apply for the next start term.

Our university makes decisions on applications in a timely manner. We are accepting applications on a rolling basis. Applicants usually receive a decision within a week of completing the online application.

Related Programs

Not sure if this certification is right for you? Check out our other instructional certifications, designed for applicants with a bachelor’s degree who want to transition into teaching.

Questions? Find the right contact below.

Connect with our enrollment teams for personalized guidance on admission requirements, the application process, key dates, and your next steps toward enrollment.