Earn your U.S. state teaching license today!
It’s a 9-month online course that gives you the flexibility to take the next step in your teaching career from anywhere in the world.
Qualify for high-paying jobs at international schools
Earning your U.S. state teaching license will give you access to opportunities you didn’t even know existed!
The teaching license and M. Ed. courses are offered through our partner, Moreland University, which is a fully-accredited university and teacher preparation program.
Benefits of the program
Through the Moreland University teacher preparation program, you can work towards earning a U.S. Washington DC or Arizona State teaching license! This Teacher Preparation Program is ideal for teachers currently abroad and either want to get qualified to in the US or to qualify for international school teaching positions. The coursework is easily combined with a full-time teaching job and will enable you to practice what you learn directly in your classroom. 9 months from now you could be eligible for a Washington D.C. or Arizona State teaching license.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree or higher
- Minimum GPA of 3.0 or 2 years teaching experience
- Mastery of the subject to be taught
- Demonstrated effective writing skills
- Passion and enthusiasm for helping young people learn, grow, and develop
Curriculum
- Program Orientation
- The Culture of Schooling
- The Learner & Learning in the Digital Age
- Managing the Learning Environment
- Planning & Preparation for Learning
- Student Assessments
- Introduction to Clinical Practice
- Teaching Practice and Proficiency (clinical)
Earn your teaching license from anywhere in the world
The Moreland University program provides a unique teaching model. Instead of enrolling in several different courses each semester, candidates complete a series of intense, comprehensive modules of different lengths, taken in sequence. The program is project and activity-based, and through its collaborative learning model participant learning takes place in mandatory virtual class sessions with 10 -15 candidates in the learning cohort and the instructor.
Each module is divided into units, and each unit is one week long. Participants have to commit an average of 15-25 hours to the course each week, completing coursework, collaborative projects, and clinical activities. The online platform provides a safe environment to practice what you have learned. Instructors provide encouraging feedback and support throughout the course.
The Teacher Preparation program consists of the following eight modules that can be completed over nine months (40 weeks):
1. Program Orientation
2. The Culture of Schooling
3. The Learner & Learning in the Digital Age
4. Managing the Learning Environment
5. Planning & Preparation for Learning
6. Student Assessments
7. Introduction to Clinical Practice
8. Teacher Practice and Proficiency (clinical)
Master’s in Education Degree with Teacher Preparation
For individuals seeking both a teaching license and a Master’s in Education degree: the first 9 months of your program would be the curriculum currently offered in the Teacher Preparation Program, followed by 3 months of additional coursework including a focus on Research or Globalization of Education.
Each module is divided into one-week long units. Every week, you will be required to complete 3 to 4 projects or clinical activities that can require anywhere between 15 to 25 hours per week depending on the complexity and collaboration requirement of the weekly activities. The time required to prepare activities for submission is usually greater at the beginning of the program as you learn new digital tools.
The two Master’s in Education programs consist of the following 11 modules that are to be completed over the course of 12 months.
- Program Orientation
- The Culture of Schooling
- The Learner & Learning in the Digital Age
- Managing the Learning Environment
- Planning & Preparation for Learning
- Student Assessments
- Introduction to Clinical Practice
- Teaching Practice and Proficiency (clinical)
- Reading & Literacy
- Education Research
- Research Project
Master’s in Education with a focus on globalization and teacher preparation
- Program Orientation
- The Culture of Schooling
- The Learner & Learning in the Digital Age
- Managing the Learning Environment
- Planning & Preparation for Learning
- Student Assessments
- Introduction to Clinical Practice
- Teaching Practice and Proficiency (clinical)
- Globalization of Education
- International Mindedness
- International Project
Teaching license program areas of teacher preparation:
Washington D.C. License Areas of Preparation
Early Childhood
- General Early Childhood Education
K-12
- Art
- Bilingual Education
- Bilingual Special Education
- Computer Education Lab
- ESL
- Foreign Language Subjects
- Health & P.E.
- Music – Instrumental or Vocal
- Special Education
Elementary School (1-6)
- General Elementary Education
Middle School (4-8)
- English
- Math
- Science
High School (7-12)
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Computer Science
- English
- General Science
- Home Economics
- Marketing Education
- Math
- Physics
- Social Studies
Arizona License Areas of Preparation – Elementary (1-8) and Secondary (6-12)
- Art
- Biology
- Business
- Chemistry
- Chinese/Mandarin
- Dance
- Drama/Theater
- Economics
- English/ELA
- French
- General Science
- Geography
- German
- Health
- History
- Mathematics
- Music
- P.E.
- Physics
- Political Science/American Government
- Spanish
The Moreland University program offers affordable tuition for candidates seeking to complete our teacher preparation certificate program or their Master’s in Education degree. Payments are made directly to TEACH-NOW.
1. $6,000 for the Teacher Preparation Certificate Program – full payment upfront of $6000 or an initial payment of $800 and 8 monthly payments of $650 spread over the 9-month program.
2. $13,000 for the Master’s in Education Degree with Teacher Preparation – full payment upfront of $13,000 or an initial payment of $1,000 and 12 monthly payments of $1,000 spread over the 12-month program.
3. $13,000 for the Master’s Degree with Globalization & Education Research Emphasis – full payment upfront of $13,000 or an initial payment of $1,000 and 12 monthly payments of $1,000 spread over the 12-month program.
The Application Process
- Complete the application online.
- The Moreland University admissions staff will review your completed application within a few days and contact you with the results.
- If accepted, you’ll speak with the enrollment coordinator to answer questions and choose an available start date!
Program Completion Requirements
- Achievement of a proficiency level of at least a 2.6 on a 4-point scale in the program
- Maximum of three missed submissions of the required activities across all of the modules
- Successfully completed at least 200 hours of clinical practice in a school
- Paid tuition and required fees in full
Clinical Practice Requirements
To be eligible to begin Module 7, Introduction to Clinical Practice, candidates must have submitted the following:
Criminal background report required by the District of Columbia or the state of Arizona, depending on the state in which you are seeking a teaching license (NOTE: If you are currently teaching, you may submit the criminal background report you submitted for your job. However, you must complete the required background report required by DC or Arizona with your application for a teaching license.)
What alumni have to say
Moreland University Program
“I really liked the mentor aspect of it, having someone that could watch my own videos and give me direct feedback on the things that I learned from the course – I just found it really helpful and beneficial.”
– Julie
TEACH-NOW Program
“What was so attractive about TEACH-NOW was how long it was going to take me to get my teaching certificate, and I could do it online. I’m already in Shanghai and going back to school in America was going to take me at least two years to do and was going to cost me way more money. This was a quick and cheap way to get my teaching license.”
– Alexis
TEACH-NOW Program
“I think I reflect more on my lessons now. The TEACH-NOW program helped me to really think about what I was putting into my lessons, how I planned them, and just to be a more reflective teacher in general.”
Teaching License Prep
“Teach-Now is an excellent program for anyone looking to make teaching a career. The course was interactive, stimulating, and highly informative. It gave me the opportunity to connect with teachers from all over the world, and provided me with a supportive network of professional educators. Although I’m not exactly tech-savvy, Teach-Now also prepared with the tech skills I need in order to teach in a 21st century classroom. I would 100% recommend this program to anyone looking to advance in their teaching career. ”
– Ashley, USA
Teaching License Prep
“I am so thrilled I did this course because I can see the differences in my teaching. I can see how the skills and theory have worked in my classroom and made me a better teacher. It doesn’t necessarily mean that you need to switch jobs or move to another country, but as an educator who wants to create new challenges for themselves, it is a great way to become a better teacher.”
– David, Iran
Learn more about the program
Who are the instructors?
Our instructors are hand-selected master educators with many years excelling in the classroom. Our requirements include: At least three years of exemplary teaching experience Demonstrated proof of student achievement gains Formal recognition of expertise via an award or distinction in teaching by a school or district Proficiency integrating multiple technologies as part of the learning process
Can I continue working full-time while going through the program?
Yes. The workload varies but seems to average out to approximately 15 hours a week once candidates become familiar with our learning-to-teach model. The first six months of the teacher preparation certificate program are almost exclusively online and meeting times are scheduled by each cohort according to the group’s availability (typically outside of business hours). The last three months of the program require at least 200 hours of actual practice teaching in a classroom with a supervising mentor teacher―completed by teaching a minimum of 4 hours per day, 5 days per week, for 12 weeks (which allows for a couple of absences). For candidates already in the classroom, this requirement can be met through the current teaching job.
I'm not a U.S. citizen. Can I still apply for a teaching certificate?
Yes. You are not required to be a US citizen to apply for a teaching license. However, the license does not act as a visa or green card. You will need to discuss your immigration status with potential employers.
Can I complete this program while abroad?
Absolutely–many current candidates are living and working abroad. As long as you have a computer with internet access and a webcam, you can complete the program.
Are there breaks or holidays during the program?
As an international program and in the spirit of celebrating diversity, no holidays are universally observed. Each cohort and their instructor decide about holidays. There are no penalties for holidays, however arrangements must be made with the instructor and cohort in advance to cover all group and individual activities, as well as to make up virtual class. There is one program-wide break―winter break―the last 2 weeks of December. Also, due to the timing of clinical practice and school calendars, some cohorts will have summer breaks (approximate summer break if starting in:Nov―3 months; Jan―2 months; and Feb―1 month).
Will I be able to teach at an international school with this teaching certificate?
Definitely! Many international schools require a valid teaching license in the subject you intend to teach.
Is this a real teaching certificate?
Definitely! Moreland University is an approved teacher preparation program required for a full, regular renewable 4-year teaching license in the District of Columbia or a 2-year provisional license which converts to a full renewable license in Arizona. It is not a temporary or alternative license.
How does the teaching practice requirement work?
Clinical experiences are embedded throughout the nine-month program. The last three months of the teacher preparation certificate program require at least 200 hours of actual practice teaching in a classroom with a supervising mentor teacher―completed by teaching a minimum of 4 hours per day, 5 days per week, for 12 weeks (which allows for a couple of absences). We will work with you in finding a school, initially focusing on any school(s) where you would like to teach. We work directly with the school to help arrange your student teaching experience as well as to ensure that your mentor/supervising teacher is trained in the program’s methodology. For candidates already in the classroom, this requirement can be met through the current teaching job and we will help to identify a mentor who will guide and evaluate you while you are part of the teacher certification program.
Do I have to pass any tests in order to get certified?
Yes. Like many other states, Washington, DC, which grants your certification upon completion of the program, requires the PRAXIS tests. Arizona has its own certification tests, which are administered by NES/Pearson. If you will be seeking reciprocity in other states, you may need to take additional standardized tests. We are happy to help you figure out any specific requirements for your desired teaching location.
How long will be credential be valid? How can I get it renewed?
There’s currently no such thing as a lifetime license. All states require periodic renewal of their teaching licenses, for example, DC, Arizona and California. Arizona – valid for six years California – valid for five years Washington, DC – valid for 4 years Further details can be found on each state’s relevant website.
Is this program accredited?
The Moreland University teacher preparation program is accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Education Preparation and directly approved by Washington, DC’s Office of State Superintendent of Education (http://osse.dc.gov/) and the Arizona State Department of Education (http://www.azed.gov/highly-qualified-professionals/azboardapprovedprograms/). The Educatore School of Education is accredited by the Distance Education Accreditation Commission (http://deac.org).
How do I get my FBI background check done?
For US nationals the process is relatively pain-free. Go to one of the FBI pre-approved channelers (https://www.fbi.gov/services/cjis/compact-council/list-of-approved-channelers) and scan your fingerprint. The process takes less than twenty minutes and costs 50 USD. For non-US nationals or US citizens located overseas, download the application form and get your fingerprints taken at the nearest police station or consulate. Submit all your documents along with an $18 credit card payment. Please be advised that this process takes AT LEAST 3 months to complete. Click here for more information: https://osse.dc.gov/sites/default/files/dc/sites/osse/publication/attachments/Criminal%20History%20Report%20all%20other%20applicants_8.pdf.
Technology requirements
Operating system
Windows 1.4GHz Intel® Pentium® 4 or faster processor (or equivalent) for Microsoft® Windows 7, Windows 8 or Windows 8.1 Windows 10, 8.1 (32-bit/64-bit), 8.0 (32-bit/64-bit), Windows 7 (32-bit/64-bit) 512MB of RAM (1GB recommended) for Windows 7 or Windows 8 Microsoft Internet Explorer 8 or later; Windows Edge browser; Mozilla Firefox; Google Chrome Adobe® Flash® Player 20.0+ Mac OS 1.83GHz Intel Core™ Duo or faster processor 512MB of RAM (1GB recommended) Mac OS X 10.8, 10.9, 10.10 Mozilla Firefox; Apple Safari; Google Chrome Adobe Flash Player 20.0+
High-speed internet connection
Check your Internet connection at http://www.speedtest.net. At a minimum, your connection should meet the following standards: Ping – less than 50 ms Download Speed – greater than 10 Mbps Upload Speed – greater than 2 Mbps If any of your numbers are not within these standards, your experience in the virtual class may suffer. In this case, you should contact your Internet service provider to improve these numbers.
Webcam
The webcam is built-in with most laptops. If needed, you can purchase one online for around $30. You can also use a modern smartphone to connect to our Virtual Classroom.
Microphone
The microphone is built-in with most laptops or smartphones or can be purchased online for around $10.
Headset or speakers
A headset or ear buds will help you avoid echo and noise during the virtual class.
Browser
The recommended browser for your virtual class is Mozilla Firefox.
Teacher certification blogs
7 Benefits of Earning a TEFL Certificate
There are many obvious as well as not-so-obvious benefits of earning a TEFL certificate before moving abroad to teach. On the fence about starting a TEFL course? Check out some of the most important benefits that a TEFL certificate will give you!
5 Great Benefits of Taking an In-Class TEFL Course
Teaching abroad brings a mix of emotions for teachers starting their new adventure. The initial excitement of preparing for your upcoming life abroad is often immediately followed by worry about what it is going to be like in the classroom. Will my students understand me? Will they be engaged in my lessons? These questions are common, natural reactions that all teachers face when preparing for their teach abroad experience.
Luckily, an in-class TEFL course is a great way to ease your way into not only teaching but your new country and culture as well.
Here are 5 great benefits of taking an in-class TEFL course:
1. Networking with schools and teachers
Applying to schools from your home country can be intimidating. You may hear horror stories of instructors who signed a contract only to find out that their school, housing, or teaching arrangements were not exactly what they expected.
Taking an in-class TEFL course will allow you to meet former TEFL graduates and learn about what the best teaching positions and schools are in certain locations. In many classes, new TEFL candidates will have the chance to observe former graduates and experienced teachers in their own classrooms.
Being able to visit the school and meet your future co-workers will put your mind at ease about where you choose to sign a contract.
2. Learn how to handle English language learners in the country you will teach in
All TEFL courses will give you a general sense of what it is like to teach English as a Second Language. No matter where you take your course, these skills can be applied to English language learners around the world. However, being in-country for a TEFL course will expose you to language difficulties specific to learners of the country that you are going to teach in.
If you take a TEFL course in Shanghai, for example, you will be able to understand common mistakes that native Chinese speakers face when speaking and writing English. Once you can identify these issues, you will be able to anticipate and effectively address these mistakes.
In-class TEFL participants will also be able to get hands-on experience while completing their teaching practice. Teachers will be able to see and hear these mistakes made by students and have the opportunity to address and correct using techniques learned in the TEFL course.
Having both the knowledge and experience dealing with language learners from the country where you are going to teach will make you a more effective teacher.
3. Build References
In-class TEFL courses usually range from 3-4 weeks and include full–day classes and teaching practice. This is a great opportunity to show that you are a quick learner and able to accept feedback and improve your teaching. Even if you have never taught before and are shaking before your first lesson, that’s OK! You will get the help you need and will be able to show improvement in each one of your lessons.
Being able to put yourself in an uncomfortable position, accept feedback from your instructors, and adjust your lesson plans to improve your classes are exactly the skills that schools are looking for in their instructors.
A reference who can speak to your abilities in the classroom goes incredibly far in the world of English as a Second Language teaching. Schools will be much more eager to hire teachers who they know are friendly in the classroom and who work well with other teachers. While you may not have the experience yet, showing schools that you are dedicated to improving and becoming the best teacher you can be is extremely valuable.
Not only will you be able to get references from your TEFL instructors, but your fellow classmates will also be great resources to validate your teaching abilities. Your classmates will have the opportunity to watch you build confidence in the classroom and see you improve throughout your lessons as you complete your teaching practice.
4. Familiarize yourself with the city
A great advantage of taking an in-class TEFL course is the ability to get to know the city and country you plan on teaching in before you take a position. TEFL courses run on a Monday – Friday schedule so you will get plenty of time to take weekend excursions through the city. Exploring a new city for a month will give you enough time to learn how to take public transportation, set up a bank account, memorize some helpful survival phrases, and most importantly, learn which areas of the city you would like to live in.
Exploring neighborhoods, seeing what restaurants and shops are available as well as meeting people who live in various parts of the city will help you to make an informed decision on which area of the city is the best for you to live in. As you visit schools and apply to jobs, you can map out the distance and time it will take to get there.
Having an entire month to explore the city will make starting your new position much less stressful. You can focus on your lesson plans and arranging your classroom instead of how and where to find the supermarket, bank, or department store.
5. Make lifelong friends
The classmates in your TEFL course will be in the same position as yourself. They have spent months getting ready for the transition to a new country and you will go through all elements of culture shock together. You may have some classmates who have never taught a class in their lives, while others may be experienced teachers. Together you will study for exams, stay up late to perfect your lesson plans, and deliver them in front of each other.
Navigating culture shock and the demands of the TEFL course together will lead to a close bond with your classmates. Your classmates are also likely looking for a teaching position in the same city as yourself so there will be opportunities to share an apartment or find a teaching position at the same school.
Living and working in a foreign country is an experience that only a few people get the opportunity to have. You will end up making friends from all over the world that have shared this unique adventure with you.
Locations offered:
