Are you contemplating a fulfilling career transition into education? With the right credentials, EducateVA offers a streamlined pathway to become a licensed teacher in the state of Virginia through its esteemed Career Switcher Program Va. This program is designed to accommodate your current work and life commitments, allowing you to pursue your passion for teaching without disrupting your present responsibilities. Since 2004, EducateVA’s Career Switcher program has successfully prepared over 2,000 individuals for impactful teaching careers.
EducateVA’s program is ideally suited for individuals who have already attained a bachelor’s degree or higher and possess three or more years of full-time professional experience. If you are seeking a practical and cost-effective route to becoming a certified teacher in the Commonwealth of Virginia, this program is tailored for you.
The VCCS Career Switcher Program holds certification from the Virginia Department of Education/Division of Teacher Education, Licensure, and Professional Practice. It adheres to the same rigorous matrices and approved standards as all other recognized teacher education programs in Virginia. However, EducateVA distinguishes itself by providing an alternative pathway to achieve these instructional standards at a significantly reduced cost. Furthermore, the program’s online coursework and Saturday meeting schedule are specifically designed to enable you to earn your teaching license while maintaining your current employment and personal obligations.
During your initial year of teaching, you will hold a provisional One-Year Provisional (Career Switcher) License. Throughout this period, you will receive comprehensive support from the experienced EducateVA faculty as you progress towards obtaining your 10-year renewable Virginia teaching license.
Program Structure and Duration
How long does the program take? Level I of the program is structured around an 18-week semester. During this semester, students complete seven modules through distance education, complemented by seven mandatory Saturday in-person sessions. A crucial component of Level I is a Field Placement, requiring 40 hours of observation and participation in a classroom setting at a local school throughout the semester.
Upon securing a teaching contract and enrolling in Level II, you will be paired with a dedicated faculty observer who will provide guidance and support. You will also participate in periodic seminars designed to enhance your teaching skills and professional development. Upon successful completion of EducateVA Level II requirements and a satisfactory year of teaching, your school division can recommend you for a renewable 10-year teaching license in Virginia.
Understanding Endorsements and PRAXIS Exams
What is an endorsement? An endorsement refers to the specific subject area that will be indicated on your teaching license. This endorsement determines the subjects you are qualified to teach once you begin your teaching career. To gain endorsement in your chosen subject, you will need to pass the content knowledge exam, known as the PRAXIS II or PRAXIS Subject Assessment. Study guides to help you prepare for the PRAXIS exams are readily available from booksellers. Additionally, the ETS offers a free online resource called the PRAXIS Study Companion, which can be an invaluable tool in your preparation.
Endorsement Areas and Test Codes Supported by EducateVA:
EducateVA supports a wide range of endorsement areas, catering to various teaching interests:
- Middle School English/Lang. Arts (6-8): (5047)
- Middle School Science (6-8): (5442)
- Middle School Social Studies (6-8): (5089)
- Middle School Mathematics (6-8): (5164)
- Mathematics (6-12): (5165)
- English (6-12): (5038)
- Biology: (5236 – as of 7/1/2023)
- Chemistry: (5246 – as of 7/1/2023)
- Earth Science: (5572 as of 1/1/2024)
- Physics: (5266 – as of 7/1/2023)
- Social Studies (6-12): (5581 as of 1/1/2025)
- World Languages (PreK-12) requiring PRAXIS Subject Assessment: Spanish (5195), French (5174), German (5183)
- Note: Other World Languages may require ACTFL assessments. Contact EducateVA for details.
- Health and PE (PreK-12): (5857)
- Marketing: (5561)*
- Business and Information Technology: (5101)*
- Technology Education: (5053 as of 8/1/24)*
- Family and Consumer Sciences: (5122)*
- ESOL (PreK-12): (5362)
* Important Note: CTE endorsements necessitate an approved industry credential for licensure.
Once you have identified the appropriate PRAXIS assessment for your chosen endorsement from the list above, you can access the 2024-25 monthly schedule for PRAXIS exams here.
Choosing EducateVA’s career switcher program in VA is a significant step towards a rewarding and impactful career in education. With its flexible online and hybrid structure, dedicated support, and affordable tuition, EducateVA empowers you to achieve your dream of becoming a teacher in Virginia.
