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Colorado Alternative Teacher Certification

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Colorado Alternative Teacher Certification

Colorado Alternative Teacher Certification

In recent years, the demand for qualified teachers in Colorado has surged, leading to the implementation of alternative pathways for those interested in pursuing a career in education. The Colorado Alternative Teacher Certification allows individuals with diverse backgrounds to enter the teaching profession more quickly and flexibly. This program is especially appealing to career changers and those who hold degrees in non-education fields.

Table of contents

Administered and overseen by the Colorado Department of Education (CDE), alternative certification pathways allow qualified candidates to meet Colorado teaching license requirements without completing a traditional four-year teacher preparation program. This guide breaks down eligibility, Praxis exam expectations, program options, costs, and timelines—so you can move forward with confidence and a clear plan.

What Is Colorado Alternative Teacher Certification?

Colorado Alternative Teacher Certification refers to a streamlined process that allows individuals with a bachelor’s degree to enter the teaching profession without the traditional requirement of completing a teacher education program. This non-traditional teacher certification is designed for those who possess a passion for teaching but may not have pursued a degree in education.

The primary difference between traditional and alternative pathways lies in the educational requirements. Traditional certification requires completion of a state-approved teacher preparation program, while alternative certification allows candidates to enter the classroom more quickly, often with the ability to teach while completing their certification requirements through a Colorado alternative teacher preparation program.

Alternative licensure is especially popular among:

  • Career switchers entering education later in life

  • Professionals with strong subject-matter expertise

  • Individuals seeking a faster, more practical entry into teaching

In all cases, licensure is regulated by the CDE to ensure instructional quality and student safety.

Who Is Eligible for Alternative Teacher Certification in Colorado?

Not everyone qualifies for alternative teacher licensure in Colorado. The state has established clear eligibility criteria to ensure candidates enter classrooms with adequate preparation.

Education Requirements

To qualify for a Colorado alternative teaching license, you must hold at least a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. Importantly, degrees in fields other than education are accepted, provided your degree or coursework aligns closely with the subject area you plan to teach (for example, a mathematics degree for secondary math).

If your field doesn’t match your intended subject, you may need to demonstrate subject knowledge through a Praxis content test or equivalent assessment.

Background & Legal Requirements

Colorado takes student safety seriously. All teacher candidates must complete a fingerprint-based criminal background check through the Colorado Bureau of Investigation and the FBI. Certain criminal convictions will disqualify you from teaching, particularly those involving violence, sexual offenses, or crimes against children.

You must also verify legal presence in the United States. The CDE requires documentation, such as a U.S. passport, birth certificate, or employment authorization documents, before processing any teaching license application.

Content Knowledge Requirements

Before you can teach in Colorado, you must demonstrate mastery of your subject area. This typically means passing the appropriate Praxis content exam for your teaching field. The specific tests required vary by subject and grade level, but common exams include:

  • Praxis Elementary Education: Multiple Subjects for elementary teachers

  • Praxis Mathematics Content Knowledge for secondary math teachers

  • Praxis English Language Arts: Content Knowledge for English teachers

  • Subject-specific Praxis tests for science, social studies, world languages, and other areas

Some alternative programs may accept other evidence of content knowledge, such as a graduate degree in the subject area, but Praxis exams remain the most common requirement. You should verify the exact testing requirements with your chosen alternative preparation program and the CDE.

Colorado Alternative Teacher Certification Requirements (Step-by-Step)

If you're ready to pursue alternative teacher certification in Colorado, here's the process:

  1. Earn a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution – Your degree can be in any field, though alignment with your intended teaching area strengthens your application.

  2. Pass required Praxis exams – Complete the content knowledge assessments for your subject area and grade level. Register at the official Praxis website and plan adequate study time before your test date.

  3. Apply to a CDE-approved alternative teacher preparation program – Colorado authorizes specific programs to offer alternative certification. Research programs that fit your location, schedule, and career goals.

  4. Secure a teaching position or placement – Most alternative certification pathways require you to be hired by a Colorado school district. Some programs arrange placements, while others expect you to find your own position.

  5. Complete fingerprinting and background checks – Submit to CBI and FBI background screening as required by Colorado law.

  6. Apply for an initial teaching license through the CDE – Once enrolled in an approved program and hired by a district, submit your license application through the CDE's online licensing system along with required documentation and fees.

  7. Complete your alternative preparation program requirements – This includes coursework, mentorship, classroom observations, and performance assessments while you teach.

  8. Apply for a professional teaching license – After successfully completing your program and meeting all requirements, you can upgrade to a professional educator license.

Approved Colorado Alternative Teacher Certification Pathways

Alternative Teacher Preparation Programs (ATPPs)

Several institutions offer Colorado alternative certification programs, including universities and non-university providers. These programs vary in their structure and support offered to candidates.

Teaching Residency Programs

Teaching residency programs provide an opportunity for candidates to gain practical experience while being compensated for their work. These programs are particularly beneficial in high-need districts.

District-Based Alternative Licensure

Some districts have implemented hire-first models, allowing candidates to be hired as teachers before completing all certification requirements. Emergency or interim licensing options may also be available.

Traditional vs Alternative Teacher Certification in Colorado

Understanding the differences between traditional and alternative pathways helps you choose the best route for your situation.

Feature

Traditional Certification

Alternative Certification

Education Degree Required

Yes – bachelor's in education

No – any bachelor's degree accepted

Time to Classroom

4+ years (undergraduate program)

1–2 years (preparation while teaching)

Student Teaching

Required before employment

Supervised teaching while employed

Coursework Timing

Before entering the classroom

Concurrent with teaching

Typical Candidate

College students, recent high school graduates

Career changers, second-career professionals

Program Cost

Full undergraduate tuition

Varies – typically lower than a full degree

Salary During Training

No income during student teaching

Earn a teaching salary during preparation

Initial Classroom Support

More preparation before solo teaching

More mentorship during teaching

Final License

Professional educator license

Professional educator license (same credential)

Best For

Those planning teaching careers early

Professionals transitioning to education

Both pathways lead to the same professional teaching license issued by the Colorado Department of Education. Alternative certification is not a "lesser" credential; it's simply a different route to the same destination, designed for candidates who already hold degrees and are ready to transition into teaching quickly.

How Long Does It Take to Become a Teacher in Colorado via Alternative Certification?

The typical timeline for obtaining a Colorado alternative teacher certification ranges from 6 months to 2 years. Various factors can influence this timeline, including the subject area being taught and the demand for teachers in specific districts.

How Much Does Colorado Alternative Teacher Certification Cost?

Costs associated with obtaining a Colorado alternative teacher certification can vary widely:

  • Program tuition ranges from $5,000 to $20,000, depending on the provider.
  • Praxis exam fees typically range from $90 to $150 per test.
  • CDE application fees are generally around $100.

Many districts offer cost-saving options through sponsored programs or financial aid.

Can You Teach in Colorado Without an Education Degree?

Yes, you can teach in Colorado without an education degree, but specific conditions must be met. Candidates with bachelor’s degrees in other fields may obtain a Colorado alternative teaching license, provided they complete the necessary certification steps. However, relying solely on emergency licensure can limit long-term teaching opportunities and compliance.

High-Demand Teaching Areas in Colorado

Colorado faces significant teacher shortages in specific subject areas and geographic regions. Pursuing alternative certification in these high-need fields improves your chances of securing a position quickly and may provide access to additional financial incentives and support.

Colorado is experiencing a teacher shortage, particularly in:

  • Math
  • Science
  • Special Education
  • English as a Second Language (ESL)
  • Rural and underserved districts

Colorado Department of Education (CDE) Licensure Process

All teacher licenses in Colorado are issued through the Colorado Department of Education's Educator Licensing unit. Understanding this system is essential for successfully navigating alternative certification.

Applying Through the CDE Online System

Once you’ve been offered a teaching position and enrolled in an approved preparation program, complete your alternative licensure application through the CDE eLicensing system.

You’ll upload:

  • Verification of program admission

  • Proof of a bachelor's degree

  • Transcripts

  • Proof of passing content assessments, Praxis test results

  • Fingerprint documentation/Background check results

Initial vs Professional License

Your Alternative Teacher License is valid for one year and can be renewed once if necessary. After successfully completing your program and evaluations, you can apply for an Initial Teacher License, valid for three years. Subsequent teaching experience and professional development lead to a Professional License, renewable every seven years.

Pros and Cons of Colorado Alternative Teacher Certification

Alternative teacher certification offers significant advantages for career changers and non-traditional candidates, but it also presents unique challenges. Honestly assessing both helps you make an informed decision.

Pros

  • Faster entry into teaching
  • Lower upfront education costs
  • Paid teaching while training

Cons

  • High workload during the certification program
  • Limited classroom preparation initially
  • Availability of programs may vary

FAQs About Colorado Alternative Teacher Certification

How fast can I get alternative teacher certification in Colorado?

Depending on the pathway chosen and the completion of necessary requirements, candidates can obtain certification within 6 months to 2 years.

Do I need student teaching experience?

No formal student teaching experience is required for alternative certification, but practical teaching experience is strongly encouraged.

Can out-of-state teachers use alternative pathways?

Yes, out-of-state teachers may qualify for alternative certification in Colorado, subject to meeting specific requirements set by the CDE.

Is alternative certification respected in Colorado?

Yes, alternative certification is recognized and respected in Colorado, especially in high-demand areas.

Final Thoughts: Is Colorado Alternative Teacher Certification Right for You?

If you have a bachelor’s degree, strong subject knowledge, and the motivation to learn while teaching, Colorado Alternative Teacher Certification can be a practical and rewarding path into education. It’s particularly well-suited for career changers, professionals seeking meaningful work, and candidates ready to step into classrooms where they’re needed most.

Carefully compare programs, prepare thoroughly for required Praxis exams, and review CDE guidelines to choose the pathway that fits your goals. With the right preparation and mindset, you can move confidently toward becoming a licensed Colorado educator.