What if you could put your degree to good use and work in the area you studied? Texas, just like so many states, is always in need of dedicated teachers who love their subject.
Educators strive to shape young minds and inspire the next generation of leaders, doctors, artists and innovators. Coders, biologists, mathematicians and even business management professionals can parlay their knowledge and expertise into teaching jobs in Texas with ease.
If you’re considering a career change, but still want to get the most out of your degree program, here is how you can turn that degree into a teaching job in Texas.
If you already have a bachelor’s degree, transitioning into a teaching career — especially in high-demand subject areas — might take less time than you’d expect. In Texas, alternative teacher certification programs offer a streamlined path for professionals who didn’t study education but want to make a difference in school districts. They are perfect for those who are going through a career switch.
These programs, known as educator preparation programs (EPPs) or alternative certification programs, are designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to be classroom-ready. A strong EPP will tailor your training to the subject and grade level you plan to teach, helping you meet certification requirements efficiently and confidently.
Many candidates complete their certification in as little as 4 to 6 months. The coursework may be online, in-person, or a mix of both, and includes:
That 30-hour observation requirement is more than a formality — it’s a vital checkpoint. Certified advisors or mentors assess your progress and submit recommendations that determine whether you’re ready to move forward in a real classroom setting.
The teacher training program you choose can make a big difference in your experience. At ECAP, advisors include experienced former principals, assistant principals, and career educators who understand what school leaders are looking for. Some other programs may rely on former students or less-experienced evaluators, so it’s worth asking how your mentors are selected before enrolling.
Additionally, if a district hires you under an emergency teaching certificate, having a reputable preparation program by your side can be invaluable during your first year. A strong support system from day one ensures you're not navigating the challenges of teaching alone.
Everyone remembers their favorite teacher, and we all know educators are integral to everyone’s success. One of the biggest draws to teaching is knowing that you’re impacting the future by helping students grow.
The demand for teachers is real. Most states face a teacher shortage, and many districts offer signing bonuses, as well as stipends, for high-need areas.
For the 2025-2026 school year, the following subject areas have been identified as shortage areas in Texas:
In addition to signaling a high need for teachers in these fields, some of these areas have also been designated as critical shortage areas. This designation allows teachers who work in these fields to qualify for specific federal benefits, such as TEACH Grants and Public Service Loan Forgiveness. The critical shortage areas include:
Can you imagine going to work and knowing that you’re helping shape the future of the students in your classroom? Getting to talk about a topic you love? That’s not something everyone can brag about.
To earn your standard teaching certificate in Texas, you’ll need to complete 300 hours of required training through your educator preparation program (EPP). Within those 300 hours, 30 must be spent observing a certified teacher in a real K–12 classroom setting. This component, often called “student teaching” or “field-based experience,” gives you firsthand insight into classroom management, instructional strategies, and student engagement.
In addition to completing your training hours, you must also pass the state-mandated certification exams tied to your chosen subject and grade level (elementary school or high school).
At ECAP, this process starts with 40 hours of training before you’re allowed to take a practice content exam. Interns are encouraged to aim for a score of 270 or higher on this practice test. This score helps determine your readiness and highlights areas that may need additional focus. Once you meet that benchmark, you’ll receive approval to take the official content exams required for your certification area.
If you're planning to teach early childhood education or English Language Arts, you may also be required to take the Science of Teaching Reading (STR) exam, which assesses your ability to teach foundational literacy skills.
Finally, all teacher candidates must pass the PPR exam (Pedagogy and Professional Responsibilities) to get your teaching license. This exam evaluates whether you as a school teacher are prepared to start teaching, plan instruction, manage classrooms effectively, conduct assessments, and uphold your professional responsibilities as an educator.
As you explore different certification programs to earn your teaching credential, be sure to choose one that provides built-in support for test preparation — not one that charges extra for essential tools and guidance. A quality EPP will make sure you’re ready for each step of the certification journey, from observation hours to final exams.
If you have your degree, or if you’re nearing graduation, you can utilize a Texas teacher certification program.
Taking an alternative route to becoming a certified teacher means that you can show your content knowledge and pick up on the pedagogical practices on the way. Texas needs teachers who love what they teach and teach what they truly love.
ECAP can help you be that person!
Topics: Teaching Jobs
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