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How to Become a Teacher in Colorado Without a Teaching Degree

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How to Become a Teacher in Colorado Without a Teaching Degree

How to Become a Teacher in Colorado Without a Teaching Degree

Breaking into the classroom doesn’t always require a traditional education major. If you hold a bachelor’s degree in another field and feel called to teach, Colorado offers clear, structured pathways to help you earn licensure, pass required exams, and begin teaching—often while you complete your preparation program.

Table of contents

This guide walks you through how to become a teacher in Colorado without a teaching degree, step by step, with a special focus on exams, licensure, and alternative certification routes.

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

Yes, you can become a fully licensed teacher in Colorado without holding a degree in education. The Colorado Department of Education (CDE) offers several alternative pathways designed specifically for individuals who possess a bachelor's degree in a non-education field.

These routes allow you to earn your teaching license while gaining hands-on classroom experience, provided you meet specific requirements including passing content-area exams, completing approved educator preparation coursework, and satisfying background check protocols.

Who This Path Is Best For

Alternative certification isn't just for anyone—it's particularly well-suited for specific groups of professionals and aspiring educators:

  • Career Changers: Professionals looking to leave corporate America, healthcare, law, engineering, or other fields to pursue more meaningful work often find alternative certification the perfect bridge to education. Your prior professional experience becomes an asset, especially when teaching older students or career-focused subjects.

  • Professionals with Subject-Matter Expertise: Have a degree in mathematics, chemistry, history, or Spanish? Your deep content knowledge is exactly what Colorado schools need. Alternative pathways let you leverage your academic background while learning pedagogical skills on the job.

  • Paraprofessionals & Substitutes: Already working in schools as a teacher's aide, paraprofessional, or substitute teacher? You've seen classroom management in action and understand school culture. Alternative certification is your natural next step toward a full teaching license and the increased salary that comes with it.

  • Military Spouses & Veterans: Military families face unique challenges with frequent relocations and career disruptions. Colorado's alternative pathways offer flexibility and recognize the leadership, discipline, and training skills veterans bring to education. Some programs even offer expedited processes for military-connected candidates.

Colorado Teaching Requirements Without an Education Degree

Before exploring specific pathways, let's establish the non-negotiable baseline requirements that apply to all prospective teachers in Colorado, regardless of which route you choose.

Minimum Education Requirements

To qualify for a teaching license in Colorado, you must have:

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

  • Often show content competency in your subject—through a degree in the endorsement area, 24 semester hours of coursework, or passing an approved content exam.

  • Some alternative programs or districts may consider GPA or recent academic performance when selecting candidates, though this is program-specific rather than a universal CDE rule.

Background Checks & Fingerprinting

All prospective teachers must complete criminal history checks through:

  • Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI)

  • Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

Expect to submit fingerprints digitally at approved sites. Clear results are essential; any issues could delay or deny licensure.

Fingerprinting and clearance can take several weeks, so start early to avoid delays in licensure or hiring.

CDE notes you typically have 30 days from when the background check is received to complete your license application, so plan timing around your program or hiring timeline.

Required Exams (Praxis & Content Tests)

Colorado requires prospective teachers to demonstrate content mastery through standardized assessments. The specific exams you'll take depend on the grade level and subject area you intend to teach.

  • Praxis Subject Assessments: For most content areas, Colorado uses Praxis Subject Assessments (formerly called Praxis II exams) to verify your knowledge. These are rigorous, content-specific exams covering subjects like mathematics, English, science, social studies, world languages, and more. Each test typically costs $90-150, and passing scores vary by subject.

  • Elementary Education: If you're pursuing elementary education (typically grades K-6), you'll take the Praxis Elementary Education: Multiple Subjects exam, which covers reading/language arts, mathematics, social studies, and science. This is a comprehensive exam that reflects the broad content knowledge elementary teachers need.

  • Special Considerations: Some Career and Technical Education (CTE) pathways have different testing requirements, sometimes accepting industry certifications in lieu of Praxis exams. We'll cover this in more detail later.

Alternative Pathways to Teaching in Colorado

Alternative teacher licensure is the most common pathway for career changers and non-education majors.

But what exactly does "alternative licensure" mean?

Alternative Licensure (often called an intern, provisional, or residency license) is the official document issued by the state that allows you to begin teaching in a classroom under a provisional license while simultaneously completing educator preparation coursework through an approved program.

It's an earn-while-you-learn approach that gets you in front of students faster while ensuring you develop the necessary teaching skills.

Alternative Teacher Licensure Programs in Colorado

Alternative licensure allows you to teach while completing required pedagogy coursework. Programs are approved by the CDE and offered by universities, school districts, and nonprofit providers.

Key features:

  • Designed for non-education majors

  • Blend online and in-person learning

  • Emphasize classroom-based training

How Alternative Licensure Works Step by Step

  1. Enroll in a CDE-approved alternative licensure program

  2. Secure a teaching position with a Colorado school district

  3. Teach full-time while completing coursework and mentoring

  4. Apply for and earn an Initial Teacher License

Teacher Residency Programs in Colorado

Teacher residencies pair candidates with mentor teachers for an extended, immersive experience.

What makes residencies different:

  • Year-long classroom placements

  • Strong coaching and mentorship

  • Often focused on high-need schools

Some residencies offer paid stipends, while others require a tuition commitment.

Residency vs Alternative Licensure: Key Differences

Factor

Residency Program

Alternative Licensure

Time commitment

Full academic year

Flexible, varies

Cost

Often higher upfront

Program-dependent

Classroom role

Co-teacher/learner

Lead teacher

Emergency Teaching License in Colorado

An emergency teaching license may be issued when districts cannot fill positions.

Key points:

  • Requires district sponsorship

  • Typically limited to shortage areas

  • Valid for a limited time while you work toward full licensure

Pros and Cons of Emergency Licensure

Pros

  • Fast entry into teaching

  • Immediate classroom experience

Cons

  • Temporary status

  • Renewal limits

  • Fewer support structures than formal programs

How to Get a Colorado Teaching License Without a Teaching Degree: Step-by-Step

  1. Choose the Right Alternative Pathway based on your situation.
  2. Apply to an Approved Preparation Program.
  3. Pass Required Exams, including Praxis assessments.
  4. Secure a Teaching Position in Colorado.
  5. Apply for Your Initial Teaching License through the CDE.

Step 1: Choose the Right Alternative Pathway

Decide whether an alternative licensure program, teacher residency, or emergency authorization best fits your situation, based on your experience, finances, and how quickly you want classroom responsibility. Consider whether you prefer a mentored residency model or are comfortable starting as teacher of record immediately.

Step 2: Apply to an Approved Preparation Program

Identify CDE-approved providers in your endorsement area (e.g., BOCES programs like Northeast Colorado BOCES or district programs like Teach Today) and submit your application with transcripts and relevant documentation. Check each program’s admission criteria, which may include interviews, minimum GPA, and proof of content competency.

Step 3: Pass Required Exams

Confirm which content exams are needed for your endorsement area (often Praxis Subject Assessments or other board-approved tests) and schedule them early in your process. Passing your content exam can strengthen your application and may be required for licensure or for an Interim Authorization.

Step 4: Secure a Teaching Position

Work with your program or directly with districts to obtain a teaching job aligned with your endorsement area in a Colorado public school, BOCES, or charter. Your employer will complete a Statement of Assurance or emergency packet that confirms your role, which you submit to CDE with your license application.

Step 5: Apply for Your Initial Teaching License

Once you’ve completed your alternative program (or equivalent preparation) and met testing and background requirements, submit your online application for an Initial Teacher License through CDE’s COOL system. The Initial License confirms you have completed a state-approved route and are now fully licensed to teach in your endorsed area in Colorado.

How Long Does It Take to Become a Teacher in Colorado Without an Education Degree?

Becoming a teacher in Colorado without an education degree typically takes one to two years through an Alternative Licensure Program (ALP). Candidates must hold a bachelor's degree in any field, pass content exams (Praxis) or have 24+ relevant credits, and secure a teaching position to begin earning a salary while completing training. 

Key Pathways and Timelines:

  • 1-Year Alternative Route: Designed for candidates with some experience or specific content knowledge, often taking roughly 9–12 months to complete.

  • 2-Year Alternative Route: A common, structured path for those with no prior teaching experience, allowing for two years of on-the-job training.

  • Master's with Alternative Licensure: Some programs, such as those at MSU Denver, allow individuals to complete their licensure and a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) within two years. 

What Subjects Are Easiest to Teach Without a Teaching Degree in Colorado?

In Colorado, the "easiest" subjects to teach without a formal teaching degree often involve high-demand areas where districts face shortages, allowing them to hire candidates through alternative licensure (requiring a bachelor's degree in any field) or Career and Technical Education (CTE) authorizations (requiring industry experience). 

The most accessible areas for starting a teaching career without an education degree in Colorado include:

1. High-Shortage Core & Specialist Areas

These subjects are in high demand, meaning districts are more likely to support alternative licensing. 

  • Special Education (Generalist): Consistently in high demand across all ages (5-21).

  • Mathematics (Grades 7-12): High demand, often allows for immediate hiring with a math-related degree and enrollment in an alternative program.

  • Science (Grades 7-12): Specific subjects like Physics, Chemistry, or Biology.

  • World Languages (K-12): High demand for native or fluent speakers.

  • Early Childhood Education (Birth-Age 8): High need for preschool and early elementary settings. 

2. Career and Technical Education (CTE)

If you have work experience in specific industries, you can apply for a CTE authorization to teach high school (9-12) without a teaching degree. 

  • Business/Marketing: Requires industry experience.

  • Computer Science/Technology Education: High demand, often requires industry certifications.

  • Agriculture & Natural Resources.

  • Family and Consumer Sciences.

  • Health Sciences. 

3. K-12 Specialist Areas

These positions are often flexible, allowing for movement between grade levels. 

  • Visual Art.

  • Music.

  • Physical Education (P.E.).

  • Drama/Theatre Arts. 

Cost of Becoming a Teacher Through Alternative Certification in Colorado

Alternative teacher certification in Colorado generally costs between $4,000 and $10,000 for one to two-year programs, with many popular options costing roughly $5,500–$7,000. These programs allow candidates to teach immediately with a salary while completing training, often in partnership with local school districts.

Additional fees for exams and licensure, such as Praxis exams, approximately $90–$209, and application fees, can add $300–$500. 

Salary & Job Outlook for Teachers in Colorado

Teachers in Colorado face a challenging landscape with low relative pay, often falling in the bottom tier nationally, yet demand remains steady due to high turnover and growing student populations.

Average annual teacher salaries in Colorado are approximately $48,990–$69,301, with significant variations based on district, experience, and education, ranging from $36,763 to over $99,700 in top-paying districts.

Salary Outlook

  • Average Salary: While some data shows an average around $69,301, other 2026 reports indicate a lower average closer to $48,990, placing Colorado near the bottom nationally.

  • Starting Salary: The average starting salary for a teacher in Colorado is approximately $42,421.

  • High-Paying Districts: Boulder Valley Re-2 is among the highest-paying, with an average salary near $99,707. Other high-paying areas include Aspen, Vail, and Breckenridge.

  • Low-Paying Districts: Vilas Re-5 is listed among the lowest, with average salaries around $36,763.

  • Factors Impacting Pay: Education level (Master’s), years of experience, and location are the primary factors for salary variations. 

Job Outlook and Trends

  • Demand: There is a steady, high demand for certified teachers across the state due to persistent turnover and increasing student enrollment.

  • Challenges: Many teachers are considering leaving the profession due to low wages relative to the cost of living and heavy workloads.

  • Support Staff Shortage: The shortage extends to support professionals, with average earnings for positions like bus drivers and nurses often around $35,000.

  • Certification: Colorado offers various certification types, including initial and professional licenses, to facilitate entry into the field.

FAQs About Teaching in Colorado Without a Teaching Degree

Do you need a teaching degree to teach in Colorado?

No, you can pursue alternative certification pathways that do not require a traditional teaching degree.

Can you teach in Colorado with just a bachelor’s degree?

Yes, as long as it is from an accredited institution and you meet other certification requirements.

Is alternative teacher certification respected in Colorado?

Yes, alternative certifications are recognized and respected within the education community.

Can you teach while getting certified?

Yes, many alternative programs allow you to teach while completing certification requirements.

Is substitute teaching a good first step?

Yes, substitute teaching can provide valuable classroom experience and insight into the profession.

Final Thoughts: Is Becoming a Teacher in Colorado Without a Teaching Degree Worth It?

For many career changers and nontraditional candidates, Colorado’s flexible alternative, residency, and emergency pathways make teaching both accessible and rewarding. With a bachelor’s degree, a willingness to learn, and commitment to exams and coursework, you can move from a different field into a stable, impactful classroom career.

Next steps:

  • Confirm your preferred route (alternative license, residency, or emergency authorization) with CDE guidance and district needs.

  • Map out your content exams (Praxis or other approved tests) and build a focused study plan using Praxis prep resources, practice tests, and study guides tailored to Colorado requirements on prepsaret.com.

  • Use state licensure guides and alternative certification resources to track your progress from candidate to fully licensed Colorado educator.