How to Become a Teacher in Arkansas Without a Teaching Degree

Becoming a teacher in Arkansas is more flexible than many people realize. If you hold a bachelor’s degree but did not major in education, you can still qualify to teach in Arkansas public schools through approved alternative licensure pathways. These routes were created to address teacher shortages, attract career changers, and help schools fill high-need subject areas more quickly.

For aspiring educators feeling anxious about exams, timelines, or eligibility, the process is structured but achievable. Arkansas allows you to begin teaching under a provisional license while completing required pedagogy training and Praxis exams. This guide explains exactly how to become a teacher in Arkansas without a teaching degree, including certification requirements, Praxis testing expectations, timelines, and practical preparation tips—so you can move forward with confidence.

Can You Become a Teacher in Arkansas Without a Teaching Degree?

Yes. You can become a teacher in Arkansas without a teaching degree if you have a bachelor’s degree in any field and complete an approved Alternative Licensure Program (ALP). You must also meet Arkansas Department of Education educator licensure requirements, including background checks and required Praxis exams.

Arkansas Teacher Certification Requirements (Non-Education Majors)

Minimum Education Requirements

To qualify for Arkansas teacher certification without an education degree, you must:

• Hold a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university

• Have academic coursework or professional experience relevant to the subject you plan to teach

• Meet admission criteria set by the alternative licensure provider

Your degree does not have to be in education, but it should reasonably align with your intended teaching area, especially for middle school and high school subjects.

Background Check & Eligibility Criteria

All Arkansas teacher candidates must meet basic eligibility requirements, including:

• State and federal criminal background checks

• Ethics and professional conduct training

• Legal authorization to work in the United States

• Compliance with Arkansas teaching standards and educator conduct policies

These requirements apply to both traditional and alternative certification candidates.

Alternative Pathways to Become a Teacher in Arkansas

Arkansas Alternative Licensure Program (ALP)

The Arkansas Alternative Licensure Program is the primary pathway for individuals who did not complete a traditional teacher preparation program. It is designed for career changers, recent graduates, and professionals with subject-matter expertise.

Key features of the ALP include:

• Allows candidates to teach full-time while completing certification requirements

• Combines classroom teaching with supervised mentorship and pedagogy coursework

• Leads to standard Arkansas educator licensure upon completion

This “earn while you learn” model is especially appealing to candidates who want to enter the classroom quickly.

Approved Alternative Certification Providers

Arkansas approves multiple alternative certification providers, including:

• University-based alternative licensure programs

• Private educator preparation organizations

• State-approved nontraditional pathways recognized by the Arkansas Department of Education

Each provider sets its own admission standards, timelines, and coursework structure, but all must align with Arkansas teaching license requirements.

Step-by-Step: How to Become a Teacher in Arkansas Without a Teaching Degree

1. Earn a bachelor’s degree in any major from an accredited institution

2. Choose an Arkansas-approved alternative licensure program aligned with your subject area

3. Pass required Praxis exams (subject and/or pedagogy, depending on licensure area)

4. Apply for a provisional teaching license through Arkansas educator licensure

5. Secure a teaching position in an Arkansas public school or approved setting

6. Complete pedagogy coursework and mentoring while teaching full time

7. Upgrade to a standard Arkansas teaching license after program and testing completion

Following these steps in order helps minimize delays and reduces certification-related stress.

Praxis Exam Requirements for Arkansas Teachers

Most alternative licensure candidates must pass Praxis exams as part of Arkansas teacher certification.

Common Praxis Exams Required

• Praxis Core Academic Skills (required in some cases, often waived with qualifying scores or degrees)

• Praxis Subject Assessments aligned with the content area you plan to teach

• Praxis II English Language Arts for English teacher candidates

Scoring and Retake Policies

• Arkansas sets specific passing scores for each Praxis exam

• Candidates may retake exams if they do not pass on the first attempt

• Waiting periods and retake limits apply, depending on the exam

Preparing early with structured practice tests and targeted study plans can significantly improve first-attempt pass rates.

Arkansas Provisional Teaching License Explained

A provisional teaching license allows you to teach in Arkansas while completing certification requirements.

Key points include:

• Issued to candidates enrolled in an approved alternative licensure program

• Valid for a limited period while coursework and exams are completed

• Requires ongoing progress toward full licensure

Once all requirements are met, the provisional license can be upgraded to a standard Arkansas teaching license.

How Long Does It Take to Become a Teacher in Arkansas Without a Teaching Degree?

The typical timeline ranges from one to three years, depending on several factors:

• Speed of completing Praxis exams

• Subject area and demand level

• Intensity and structure of the alternative program

• Prior academic or professional experience

High-need subjects often move faster due to streamlined placement opportunities.

What Subjects Are in High Demand in Arkansas?

Arkansas continues to face teacher shortages in several key areas, including:

• Mathematics

• Science

• Special Education

• Career and Technical Education (CTE)

• Rural and underserved districts

Candidates pursuing licensure in these areas may benefit from faster hiring timelines and additional district support.

Can Career Changers and Out-of-State Applicants Qualify?

Career Changers

Arkansas alternative licensure pathways are especially welcoming to career changers. Relevant professional experience can strengthen applications and help candidates adapt quickly to classroom instruction.

Out-of-State Teachers

Out-of-state applicants may qualify through Arkansas reciprocity agreements. License transfer requirements vary, but previous teaching experience and completed exams can often be applied toward Arkansas educator licensure.

Salary Expectations for New Teachers in Arkansas

While salaries vary by district, location, and subject area, new Arkansas teachers can generally expect:

• Competitive entry-level salaries compared to regional averages

• Higher pay or incentives in shortage areas

• Additional compensation for advanced degrees or endorsements

District-specific salary schedules determine final compensation.

Pros and Cons of Becoming a Teacher Without a Teaching Degree

Pros

• Faster entry into the classroom

• Earn a salary while completing certification

• Ideal for professionals and career changers

Cons

• Intensive coursework alongside full-time teaching

• Steeper classroom learning curve

• Limited subject availability depending on degree background

Understanding these trade-offs helps candidates make informed decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you need a teaching degree to teach in Arkansas?
No. Arkansas allows candidates with a bachelor’s degree in any field to teach through approved alternative licensure programs.

Can you teach in Arkansas with any bachelor’s degree?
Yes, provided the degree aligns with the subject area and all certification requirements are met.

Is alternative teacher certification respected in Arkansas?
Yes. Alternative licensure is fully recognized by Arkansas public schools and the Department of Education.

Can you teach in Arkansas without passing Praxis?
No. Required Praxis exams must be passed to earn and maintain licensure.

Is Arkansas facing a teacher shortage?
Yes. Shortages persist in specific subjects and rural districts, which is why alternative pathways exist.

Final Thoughts: Is Teaching in Arkansas Without a Teaching Degree Worth It?

Teaching in Arkansas without a traditional education degree is not only possible—it is increasingly common. With clear alternative licensure pathways, structured mentorship, and defined Praxis requirements, motivated candidates can transition into teaching efficiently. If you are ready to commit to focused preparation and professional growth, Arkansas offers a realistic and rewarding path into the classroom.