Are you a seasoned professional with a bachelor’s degree seeking a fulfilling career change? Do you dream of shaping young minds and making a lasting impact? The Virginia Teacher Career Switcher Program offers a practical and accelerated pathway to becoming a licensed teacher in the Commonwealth of Virginia. EducateVA’s Career Switcher program is specifically designed for individuals like you, providing an affordable and flexible route to the classroom while accommodating your current work and life commitments.
Since 2004, EducateVA has successfully prepared over 2,000 career switchers to transition into teaching. This Virginia Department of Education certified program caters to those who possess a bachelor’s degree or higher and bring at least three years of full-time professional experience to the table. If you’re looking for a career change that leverages your expertise and passion, the Virginia teacher career switcher program through EducateVA could be your ideal next step.
What sets the Virginia teacher career switcher program apart? It’s designed to be both rigorous and accessible. EducateVA’s program mirrors the high standards of traditional teacher education programs in Virginia, adhering to the same matrices and approved standards set by the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE). However, it delivers this high-quality instruction through a pathway that is significantly more cost-effective and convenient for working professionals. The program’s online courses and Saturday meeting schedule allow you to pursue your teaching license without disrupting your current employment or personal responsibilities.
Your journey to becoming a licensed Virginia teacher through the career switcher program involves a structured two-level approach. Level I immerses you in seven modules over an 18-week semester, delivered through distance education, complemented by seven mandatory Saturday in-person sessions. A crucial component of Level I is a 40-hour field placement in a Virginia classroom, providing invaluable hands-on experience.
Upon securing a teaching position, you’ll advance to Level II. During your first year of teaching under a One-Year Provisional (Career Switcher) License, you’ll receive ongoing support from EducateVA faculty, including an assigned faculty observer and periodic seminars. Successful completion of EducateVA Level II requirements, coupled with a successful first year of teaching, makes you eligible for recommendation by your school division for a renewable 10-year Virginia teaching license. This structured support system ensures you are well-prepared and confident as you embark on your new teaching career.
Choosing the right endorsement area is a key decision in your career switcher journey. An endorsement defines the subject area you are qualified to teach and will be specified on your Virginia teaching license. To gain an endorsement, you’ll typically need to pass the PRAXIS Subject Assessment exam in your chosen content area. Study guides are readily available from booksellers, and ETS offers free online PRAXIS Study Companions to aid your preparation.
EducateVA supports a wide range of critical endorsement areas, catering to diverse interests and expertise:
- Middle School Focus (Grades 6-8): English/Language Arts (5047), Science (5442), Social Studies (5089), Mathematics (5164)
- Secondary Education (Grades 6-12): Mathematics (5165), English (5038), Social Studies (5581 as of 1/1/2025)
- Sciences: 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)
- World Languages (PreK-12): Spanish (5195), French (5174), German (5183) (PRAXIS Subject Assessment required); Other World Languages (ACTFL assessments may be required – contact EducateVA for details)
- Specialized Areas (PreK-12): Health and PE (5857), ESOL (5362)
- Career and Technical Education (CTE): Marketing (5561)*, Business and Information Technology (5101)*, Technology Education (5053 as of 8/1/24)*, Family and Consumer Sciences (5122)* (*CTE endorsements require an approved industry credential for licensure)
Ready to take the next step towards a rewarding teaching career? The Virginia teacher career switcher program through EducateVA offers a structured, supportive, and efficient path to achieving your goals. Explore the endorsement areas that align with your passion and expertise, prepare for the PRAXIS exam, and embark on a career that truly makes a difference. Visit the PRAXIS website to access the 2024-25 PRAXIS exam schedule and begin planning your journey to the classroom today.
