SPECIFIC STATE REQUIREMENTS FOR TEACHER CERTIFICATION

Pathways to Initial Teacher Certification

There are generally three ways for students to complete the requirements for Initial Teacher Certification.  Students who reside in states outside Arizona or who plan to teach in a state other than Arizona should review the specific requirements for their respective state department of education to determine the certification requirements of their state. 

• Meet Arizona requirements for certification with institutional recommendation
• Grand Canyon University has programs that have been approved by the Arizona Department of Education which lead to an Institutional Recommendation
• Meet state requirements with GCU degree
• Student earns GCU degree as part of state requirement.
• States have additional requirements including
• Fingerprinting
• Additional Courses
• State exams in General Content, Pedagogy and Subject specific tests
• Performance evaluation/demonstration of proficiency
• Meet Arizona requirements and apply for certificate/license through reciprocity
• Student must complete all requirements for Arizona certification – including AEPA tests and application
• Once they receive the Arizona certificate, they can submit an application to their state to be certified or licensed.
• Reciprocity is not automatic – there may be additional requirements per state (ie Teaching experience)