Teacher Certification

Accreditation and Accountability

The Teacher Education programs are accredited by the Teacher Education Accreditation Council (TEAC), an authority recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.

Students who wish to receive University endorsement for New York State Certification must demonstrate competence in academic coursework, teaching skills, and professional practice. Professional decorum includes consistent adherence to coursework and fieldwork guidelines, demonstrated responsibility for one’s personal and professional development and receptivity to guidance offered by mentors and advisors.

In order for a student to be recommended for initial certification, the following requirements must be met:

1. Completion of all course work with a cumulative index of 3.0 or better;
2. A grade of “B-” or better in all Education coursework;
3. Completion of the New York State Education Department approved program of teacher preparation in the certification area;
4. Successful completion and submission of electronic portfolio (edTPA) as part of the general education student teaching (with the exception of those eligible for NYSED Covid Safety Net);
5. Completion of all New York State Department of Education mandated workshops.

Please note: Candidates for the New York State certification are responsible for meeting requirements for the certification area they seek. Any changes in NYS requirements take precedence over those on this webpage.

New York State Examinations

In addition to University endorsement, students seeking initial certification in New York State must attain a passing score on the following exams: Educating All Students Test and Content Specialty Test (s) aligned to area of certification(s). Successful completion and submission of EdTPA, Teacher Performance Assessment, is also required for certification and completion of student teaching. Students must adhere to the schedule of exam completion provided by the department in order to progress in the program.

Interstate Certification

While New York State is a member of the Interstate Certification Project, which recognizes comparable initial academic program requirements among member states, students are responsible to consult out-of-state or local boards of education to ascertain their specific requirements. The Department will assist in the planning which should be initiated in sophomore year.