Teacher licensure

Begin your teacher preparation journey

Steps to Initial Teacher Licensure

Basic Skills Exam
Specific states may require a passing score on a basic skills exam to be eligible for initial teacher licensure. These exams assess the candidates’ knowledge of the fundamental skills required to become a successful teacher.
Fingerprint/ Background Clearance
Fingerprint and background clearances are required by both University of Phoenix and state law.
Content Knowledge Exam
This examination assesses the teacher candidate’s mastery of their core content area.
Clinical Experience
Teacher candidates are required to enter classroom settings throughout their program to observe instructors and participate in the teaching process.
Student Teaching
A capstone to our teacher preparation programs, teacher candidates are able to experience teaching first-hand with the guidance of a mentor teacher in a local partnered district.
Professional Knowledge Exam
This examination evaluates the teacher candidate’s knowledge of effective and current educational practices and theory.

Teacher licensure requirements vary by state.

Student Resources

Our dedicated team of trusted representatives will work with you through every part of your journey to teacher licensure. Our faculty, coupled with valuable resources, will provide you with the support you need to make an impact in your classroom.

Academic Resources

Receive the support you need to excel with these academic resources.

Center for Writing Excellence

Center for Math Excellence

Teacher test prep

Student support resources

Get the information and guidance you need for your educational journey.

Phoenix Connect

Life Resource Center

Scholarship resources

Graduation and beyond

When you graduate, your academic journey doesn’t have to end. Our resources can continue to help you grow personally and professionally.

Career guidance

Alumni resources

Related links

While widely available, not all programs are available in all locations or in both online and on-campus formats. Please check with a University Enrollment Representative.