Alabama Alternative Teacher Certification for Career Changers

Switching careers into teaching in Alabama is more achievable than you think. Whether you're a business professional, engineer, healthcare worker, or military veteran, Alabama offers alternative teacher certification pathways that let you start teaching without a traditional education degree.

In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to qualify, what steps to follow, how long it takes, and which programs help career changers become certified teachers in Alabama—fast.

What Is Alternative Teacher Certification in Alabama?

Alternative teacher certification is a state-approved route that allows individuals with a bachelor’s degree to become licensed teachers without completing a traditional education degree program.

Instead of returning to college for four years, you can enroll in an Alternative Educator Preparation Program (EPP) approved by the Alabama State Department of Education (ALSDE). You teach while completing coursework, then earn your full Professional Educator Certificate.

This pathway was created to help Alabama fill teacher shortages in high-demand subjects like math, science, special education, and career & technical education.

Who Qualifies for Alabama’s Alternative Certification?

You may qualify if you are:

• A career changer with a bachelor’s degree

• A non-education major looking to teach

• A working adult seeking flexible certification

• An out-of-state licensed teacher relocating to Alabama

• A professional in a high-need teaching field

Alabama prioritizes candidates with degrees or work experience in shortage areas such as:

• Math

• Science

• Special Education

• English

• Foreign Languages

• Career & Technical Education (CTE)

Alabama Alternative Teacher Certification Requirements

To begin the alternative certification process, you must meet the following:

Bachelor’s Degree Requirement

You need a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. Your degree should align with the subject you want to teach.

Subject Area Alignment

Your degree or professional experience must match the field you plan to teach. For example:

• Business degree → Business Education or CTE

• Biology degree → Science

• Math degree → Mathematics

Alabama Praxis Exam Requirements

You must pass the relevant Praxis Subject Assessment for your teaching area. These exams verify your content knowledge.

Background Check & Fingerprinting

All candidates must pass a state-level criminal background check.

Step-by-Step: How to Become a Teacher in Alabama Without an Education Degree

Here is the complete process career changers follow:

Step 1: Choose an Approved Alternative Certification Program

Enroll in an ALSDE-approved Alternative Educator Preparation Program. These programs are offered by universities, school districts, and select online providers.

Step 2: Apply for an Alabama Provisional Teaching Certificate

Once accepted into a program, you can apply for a provisional teaching certificate, which allows you to begin teaching while completing training.

Step 3: Teach and Complete Your Internship

You’ll teach full-time while completing coursework and mentoring requirements.

Step 4: Earn Your Professional Educator Certificate

After successful completion, you receive your full Alabama teaching license.

Best Alternative Certification Programs in Alabama for Career Changers

Career changers have several program options:

Look for programs that:

• Are approved by the Alabama State Department of Education

• Allow you to teach while training

• Offer flexible or online coursework

How Long Does Alabama Alternative Teacher Certification Take?

Most candidates complete certification in 12 to 24 months. However, individuals teaching high-need subjects may finish sooner.

Cost of Alabama Alternative Teacher Certification

Expect to pay for:

• Program tuition

• Praxis exam fees

• Background check fees

Many programs offer payment plans, grants, and scholarships, especially for shortage subjects.

Can You Teach While Completing Certification in Alabama?

Yes. Alabama allows career changers to work as teachers under a provisional certificate, meaning you can earn a full salary while finishing your program.

This is one of the fastest ways to transition into teaching.

High-Need Teaching Subjects in Alabama

Career changers have the best chances of placement in:

• Math

• Science

• Special Education

• English

• Career & Technical Education

These subjects qualify for more funding, faster hiring, and easier placement.

Benefits of Alternative Certification for Career Changers

• No education degree required

• Start teaching quickly

• Earn a salary while training

• Flexible program formats

• Strong hiring demand in Alabama schools

Common Challenges & How to Overcome Them

Alternative vs Traditional Teacher Certification in Alabama

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I become a teacher in Alabama with any bachelor’s degree?
Yes, if your degree aligns with a teaching subject.

Can I complete certification online?
Yes. Alabama approves online alternative certification programs.

How fast can I start teaching?
Once you secure a provisional certificate and a teaching placement.

Ready to Start Your Teaching Career in Alabama?

If you’re a professional looking to change careers, Alabama’s alternative teacher certification pathway is one of the fastest and most affordable ways to become a licensed teacher.

Your next steps:

1. Choose an ALSDE-approved certification program

2. Register for the required Praxis exams

3. Apply for your provisional teaching certificate

4. Begin teaching and complete your internship

Teaching is not just a job—it’s a career with purpose. And Alabama makes it possible for career changers like you to enter the classroom with confidence.