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Your Path to Teaching

Teachers are in demand across Texas and the nation. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, by 2025, an estimated 316,000 new teachers will be needed per year, and teacher demand is projected to increase 14 percent.

The University of North Texas College of Education offers students options to becoming a state certified teacher. Teaching is more than a job — it's a calling. For those who have a devotion to lifelong-learning and want to make a difference in the lives of students, the College of Education offers various paths to teacher certification.

Explore Your Options

Elementary Education

Bachelor of Science in Education

The Early Childhood through Grade 6 with Science of Teaching Reading and English as a Second Language Supplemental Teacher Certification Program at the University of North Texas is designed for students whose goal is to become a teacher in classrooms from Pre-K through 6th grade. This certification path includes preparation in the Science of Teaching Reading, a new initiative in the State of Texas that prepares teachers to implement instruction in reading, especially with young learners. English as a Second Language courses develop knowledge and skills critical to the success of English Language Learners in today’s diverse classrooms.

The fully redesigned degree program associated with this certification features:

  • A program vision focuses on equity-oriented, anti-racist, and humanizing pedagogies as represented in a set of core commitments for both faculty and teacher candidates.
  • Opportunities for undergraduates to choose a specialization area. Specializations offer deep, focused exploration in an area of interest. Options include Early Childhood Education; Language, Literacy and Activism (ESL); Inclusive (SPED) Education; and Bilingual Education.
  • Begin foundational coursework in education earlier during Freshman and Sophomore years as students complete their general core requirements.
  • Expanded opportunities for field experiences in actual classrooms and a variety of learning contexts starting early in the program and continuing through clinical teaching.
  • Choose from an increased number of electives based on interest with courses designed to allow students to explore topics more deeply or to learn about new and exciting concepts.

A student teacher works with a child at Ginnings Elementary School

Bilingual Education

Bachelor of Science in Education

The rapid expansion of Dual Language programs in Texas offers a unique opportunity to work with emergent bi/multilingual students and their families in this high-needs area. This is a job that is constantly in demand and also offers pay supplements and tuition supports from districts.

The Bachelor of Science in Education with Bilingual Education certification builds theoretical and historical perspectives on the unique contexts of Bilingual, dual- and multi-language learners. Through inquiry-based approaches embedded in area schools and communities, future teachers develop informed, culturally-responsive instructional practices that positively impact learners and families.

Many courses are taught in Spanish or Spanish and English. Topics include:

  • Latina/o/x Children’s and Young Adult Literature
  • Biliteracy Practices for the Dual Language/Bilingual Classroom
  • Dual Language Programs, Policy and Practice
  • Teaching and Learning Processes for the Dual Language/Bilingual Classroom 

A teacher points to pictures in a children's book as she smiles at two young children sitting on a couch in a library at a public school.

Special Education

Bachelor of Science in Education

The Bachelor of Science in Education with certification in Special Education results in both Early Childhood through Grade 6 and All-Level Special Education certification. Coursework and field experiences orient students to the historical foundations of special education, explore current knowledge of innovative instructional techniques, and prepare future teachers to employ evidence-based practices to support students with disabilities.

UNT’s Special Education program emphasizes strengths-based and culturally responsive practices and is committed to changing perspectives on “dis”/abilities to prepare future special educators who intentionally support learners by building learning on what is possible for each individual. Coursework and experiences develop critical perspectives and knowledge necessary to determine students’ strengths and needs, and to individualize curriculum to accommodate and modify instruction based on learner characteristics. Additionally, students develop skills to promote positive collaboration with parents and other professionals to enhance the lives of children and youth with disabilities across their life span.

As part of the coursework for the Special Education Certification, students will have experiential and practical opportunities in classrooms and communities to enhance the understanding and skills of future teachers. Course topics include: 

  • Educational Aspects of Exceptional Learners
  • Educational Assessments and Evaluation of Exceptional Learners
  • Advanced Educational Strategies for Exceptional Learners
  • Classroom and Behavioral Management Strategies for Exceptional Learners
  • Strategies to Support Diverse Learners in General Education
  • Transition Education and Services for Exceptional Learners

A teacher working with a student

Secondary Education

Teacher Education Program

The Secondary Education Program works in collaboration with partner departments across UNT to prepare future middle school and high school teachers in a variety of subject area disciplines. Students interested in teaching at the secondary level major in their subject and minor in secondary education.

Interested students should consult with their academic advisor in the college of their major for program and degree plan details. Once a student has earned 60 semester credit hours and meets the eligibility requirements listed below, they must apply for admission to the College of Education Teacher Education Program.

Following advisor verification of requirements and approval of the Teacher Education Program Admissions Interview questionnaire by COE faculty, students who meet admission requirements will receive a formal offer of admission. This offer must be accepted within 72 hours to complete the admission process.

  • 60 or more earned credit hours
  • 12 or more earned credit hours in the teaching field
  • 2.75 or higher Overall GPA
  • 2.75 or higher UNT GPA
  • TSI completion or appropriate SAT/ACT scores
  • Approved Interview Questionnaire
  • Active enrollment at UNT
  • Official degree audit that includes certification

Students interested in teaching high school Computer Science, Biochemistry, Biology, Chemistry, Math or Physics, visit Teach North Texas for information.

Physical Education

Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology

A teacher’s impact extends far beyond the academic classroom. As a teacher, you can affect your students in a positive way every day. If you’ve ever dreamed of making a difference in a child’s life by helping learners become more physically active, a Kinesiology major with teacher certification at the University of North Texas is the path for you.

A Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology is the next step toward your career goals. With an EC- 12 teacher certification, career options may include:

  • Elementary Physical Education Teacher
  • Middle or High School Physical Education Teacher