This is a guide to the usual steps a person might take to become certified to teach in the state of South Carolina. Please check with your state to make sure you have the most up-to-date information about the certification process.
For details about teaching salaries in South Carolina, see here.
Traditional Approach for the South Carolina Teacher Certification
- Earn your bachelor's degree or higher from an accredited college.
- Teacher Preparations: This will include teacher prep courses, student teaching, and other types of internships. In order to receive a South Carolina Teacher Certification, you must have some experience in teaching, even if it’s unpaid. There 180 hours of field experience required.
- Complete the fingerprint application and pass the background check.
- Pass the Praxis II and the Principles of Learning and Teaching (PLT) exam.
- Obtain the Verification of College Preparation: Recommendation for Teacher Certificate from your college.
- Submit the following:
- Completed Application
- Official transcripts, degrees, and school credits
- Also, include copies of all test scores
- $75 check/money order payable to South Carolina Department of Education
- Mail to:
South Carolina Department of Education
Office of Educator Certification
Landmark II Office Building
3700 Forest Drive, Suite 500
Columbia, South Carolina 29204
(803) 734-8466
- Do you want to renew your South Carolina Teacher Certification?
Alternative Approach for the South Carolina Teacher Certification
Alternatively, you can earn the Program for Alternative Certification for Educators (PACE). This allows you to start teaching before you complete the teacher education program.
- Earn your bachelor's degree or higher from an accredited college
- Pass the Praxis II exam
- Complete two years of full time work experience or a master's degree
- Read more of the requirements and the process here
Sources:
- Educational Testing Service, https://www.ets.org/
- South Carolina Department of Education, https://ed.sc.gov/
