Non-Education Baccalaureate or Higher Degree Holders

If you hold a baccalaureate or higher degree in a non-education area, you can become a certified teacher in Florida's public schools. Florida has a critical teacher shortage, and individuals with bachelor's degrees or higher are encouraged to pursue certification through alternate pathways. 

For more information on pathways, click on the links below.

Certification Pathways for Career Changers

Educator Preparation Institute (EPI)

Professional Development Certification Program

American Board for Certification of Teacher Excellence (ABCTE)

Professional Development Certification Program

 

Educator Preparation Institute (EPI)

Educator Preparation Institutes are available at more than 25 Florida postsecondary institutions and qualified private providers to provide instruction for non-education baccalaureate or higher degree holders that results in qualification for an initial Florida Professional Educator’s Certificate. EPIs are designed for baccalaureate degree holders to become certified teachers. In addition to completing  required coursework in the EPI program, participants must also pass the following examinations to receive their Professional Certificate:

Interested candidates must enroll in the EPI at the postsecondary institution or private providing service. Click here to see the list of approved EPI programs in Florida.

 

Professional Certification Program

Professional Development Certification Programs or PDCPs are offered by Florida public school districts, charter schools or charter management organizations to provide instruction for members of its instructional staff who are non-education baccalaureate or higher degree holders under Section 1012.56(8), F.S., resulting in qualification for an initial Florida Professional Educator’s Certificate.

Together, more than 40 school districts, charter school organizations and private providers offer PDCPs in Florida. Learn more about Florida's PDCPs here.