Kentucky Alternative Teacher Certification

Ready to Make a Difference?

Start Your Teaching Journey Today!

Western Kentucky University offers an accelerated pathway to teacher certification through our Proficiency Evaluation Route. Designed for individuals with a bachelor’s degree and relevant school-based experience, this program lets you earn your teaching license faster by showcasing your existing skills. Affordable tuition, flexible timelines, and scholarship opportunities available.

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Student leading a class of very young children.

Am I Eligible?

Determining your eligibility for WKU’s Alternative Teacher Certification Proficiency Evaluation is simple. Here’s a quick checklist to help you get started.

Bachelor’s Degree from an Accredited Institution.

GPA of 2.75+ (or 3.0 in last 30 hours).

Relevant school-based work experience.

Unsure if You Qualify?

Why Choose WKU’s Proficiency Evaluation Route?

Unlock your potential and fast-track your path to becoming a certified teacher with Western Kentucky University. Our Proficiency Evaluation Route is designed for driven individuals like you—those who have the experience, passion, and dedication to teach but need an efficient way to earn certification.

Flexible & Accelerated Certification Process.

Credit for Your Existing Skills & Experience.

Personalized Educator Learning Plan.

Eligible for Provisional Teaching Jobs While Completing Certification.

Affordable Path with Scholarship Opportunities

Worried about costs? WKU offers exclusive tuition discounts for Kentucky teachers, plus access to state-funded scholarships like the KY Traineeship Program. We’ll help you navigate financial aid options to keep your investment affordable.

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WKU Educator Discount

How It Works: A Simple 4-Step Process

Step 1:

Meet Basic Requirements

Ensure you have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, along with a minimum GPA of 2.75 or 3.0 in your last 30 credit hours. Relevant work experience in a school setting strengthens your application and showcases your readiness to teach.

Step 2:

Submit Your Digital Portfolio

Compile and submit a comprehensive digital portfolio highlighting your educational achievements, professional experiences, teaching skills, and other competencies that align with certification requirements. This portfolio is a key part of demonstrating your readiness to teach.

Step 3:

Receive Your Educator Learning Plan (ELP)

After reviewing your portfolio, our certification committee will develop a personalized Educator Learning Plan (ELP). This tailored plan outlines any additional coursework, fieldwork, or professional development you need to complete based on your unique background and experience.

Step 4:

Start Teaching with a Provisional Certificate

Once your ELP is approved, you'll receive a provisional certificate, allowing you to apply for teaching positions immediately. You can start your teaching career while completing any remaining certification requirements outlined in your ELP.

Increase Your Earning Potential

Earn a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT)

Ready for a change AND a salary boost? WKU's Alternative Route to Certification program offers a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) degree, designed for professionals and recent graduates with strong subject-matter expertise. Earn your Rank II certification and significantly increase your earning potential.

36-hour program: Fast track to your new career.
Target high-need areas: Specialize in Math, Science, Foreign Language, Special Education, and more.
Rank II Certification: Unlock a higher salary bracket (minimum $60,596 for 12 month or $52,873 for 10.5 month contracts*)

Learn More About the MAT Program

*Based on 2024 OCTE Salary Schedule via the Kentucky Department of Education.