Alternative New Jersey teacher certification programs are offered through a variety of programs and institutions.
The New Jersey Department of Education has a state-run alternate route to teacher certification. Additionally, alternative certification programs, such as Troops-to-Teachers and ABCTE are accepted in New Jersey.
If you’re looking to become a teacher in New Jersey but hold a bachelor’s degree in a different field, there are several programs available in the state that will allow you to become a certified teacher in a short period of time. Here is a look at what the programs are all about and what you need to know to apply.
Program Name: Provisional Teacher Program (PTP) – Alternate Route
Program Mission and Overview
The Alternate Route program is a non-traditional teacher preparation program where prospective teachers must complete a minimum of 200 hours of formal instruction through an approved institution. In order to participate in this program, prospective teachers must apply for a Certificate of Eligibility through the Office of Licensure and Academic Credentials. Once program participants obtain the Certificate of Eligibility, candidates are issued a provisional license to teach in the classroom while completing program requirements to obtain a standard teaching license.
Eligibility and How to Apply
To apply for the Certificate of Eligibility, an individual must meet the following requirements:
- Have a bachelor’s or advanced degree from a regional accredited college or university.
- For those who graduated after September 2004, a cumulative grade point average of 2.75 or greater is required.
- For those who graduated before September 2004, a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or greater is required. Applicants must take a 24-hour pre-service teaching program and/or submit a Certificate of Completion.
- Pass the New Jersey state test for the subject matter they wish to teach.
- Pass an exam regarding physiology, hygiene and substance abuse issues or show proof of similar training in the military or at the collegiate level.
- Submit the following documentation: Oath of Allegiance, sealed transcripts and a copy of test scores.
- Accept employment with a school district. The school district will apply to the Provisional Teacher Program for candidates.
- Meet the mentoring and formal instruction requirements based on the age group and desired subject area.
Financial information
Program participants are responsible for paying $190 in fees for obtaining the Certificate of Eligibility and Standard teaching certificate as well as a $100 administrative fee. Additionally, prospective teachers must pay for Praxis II subject-matter testing fees, which range from $50 to $150 depending on the test.
Program Name: New Pathways to Teaching in New Jersey
Program Mission and Overview
New Pathways to Teaching in New Jersey (NPTNJ) is a statewide alternative route to teacher certification. Required coursework is taught at a number of New Jersey community colleges. Candidates must complete a total of 15 credits of graduate coursework to complete this program.
Eligibility and How to Apply
- Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree and have a Certificate of Eligibility issued from the State Department of Education.
- To apply, meet with a Community College representative with the following documentation:
- Four official college transcripts.
- A copy of your Certificate of Eligibility.
- A copy of your 24-hour Intro to Ed certificate of completion.
- Candidates must also complete the PRAXIS II content area exam.
Financial information
- Program participants who choose to complete the program with credit coursework that counts toward an advanced degree must pay $9,897 for tuition.
- Those who choose the non-credit pathway for certification pay $3,900.
- Additional costs include administrative and testing fees, a mentoring fee, and the cost of textbooks.
- Eligible candidates may qualify for scholarships, grants, and federal or private student loans to pay for this program.