How to Pursue a Teacher Certification in Kentucky
There are numerous routes to initial teacher certification in Kentucky that include traditional and nontraditional pathways. Select one of the links below to find the best route for you and to understand the process.
Alternative Routes to Pursue a Teacher Certification in Kentucky
There are currently eight options or alternative routes to teaching that permit individuals to pursue teacher certification in Kentucky:
(for teachers grades prekindergarten through grade 12): Candidates with exceptional work experience in an academic content area who have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree with a 2.75 grade point average (GPA) may be eligible for this pathway.
(for teachers grades 8 through 12): Candidates who have a minimum of a master’s degree in an academic content area and have at least five years of full-time teaching experience in the content area at the college level may apply for 8–12 certification for the specific content under this route.
(Leadership Institute-Option 7): The Nelson County Schools was the first District in the state of Kentucky to be approved by EPSB to offer an Option 7 Program.
(P through grade 12): The Adjunct Instructor Certification does not lead to professional certification in Kentucky. However, it does allow those who have expertise and a minimum of a bachelor’s degree with a major or minor in an academic content area and meet other qualifications to teach part-time on a contract basis.
A pathway to certification for veterans with at least six years of eligible military service and an honorable discharge who have a GPA of at least 2.75 and a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in an academic content area or meet Praxis requirements.
(P through grade 12): This option is for individuals who hold a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a non teaching major and who are interested in attaining initial teacher certification, meet university admission requirements, and have a GPA of at least 2.75.
A national nonprofit organization that recruits, trains, and supports outstanding recent college graduates for career placement in participating school districts within the Appalachian Region of Kentucky.
Institute Alternative Route
There are no current institute alternative routes approved by the EPSB at this time.
Kentucky Division of Educator Licensure and Quality
Please contact the Kentucky Division of Educator Licensure and Quality if you have further questions