How to Become a High School Teacher in Colorado
| by Hannah Sparling
Colorado has a strong demand for high school teachers. The state is projecting 16% growth in jobs for secondary school teachers by 2032, compared to 2022. That’s an average of 1,640 open jobs every year.
High school teachers get to go in-depth in a particular subject, and they also get to play an important role in preparing students for college and careers. If you’re considering this rewarding career path in Colorado, you’ll find a state that values education, welcomes career changers, and offers multiple pathways to licensure.
This post will walk you through the steps you could take to become a high school teacher in Colorado.
Comprehensive Guide on How to Become a Teacher in Colorado
High school teachers will complete a few specific requirements for licensure (specific content area exams, for example). But in a lot of ways, high school teachers follow the same path to licensure as teachers at other levels.
For a broad overview of teacher licensure in Colorado — including alternative routes, testing requirements, and license types — check out our How to Become a Licensed Teacher in Colorado guide. This resource provides detailed information about Colorado’s licensing system, the benefits of teaching in the Centennial State, and the various routes available to aspiring educators.
What Do You Need to Be a High School Teacher in Colorado?
High school teachers in Colorado must have at least a bachelor’s degree and will need to complete an Educator Preparation Program (EPP). They’ll also pass a series of Praxis exams — or demonstrate content knowledge in a different way — and clear fingerprint and background checks.
The timeline to becoming a high school teacher will vary depending on your starting point. If you’re a high school graduate, the most common route is a 4-year bachelor’s degree in education. If you already hold a bachelor’s degree in another field, you could complete a graduate-level EPP and become a fully licensed teacher much faster. Moreland University’s TEACH-NOW Teacher Preparation Certificate Program, for example, can be completed in as little as 9 months. Now, it’s important to note that TEACH-NOW is an out-of-state EPP in Colorado, so you would apply for your Colorado license through the out-of-state process.
Steps to Becoming a High School Teacher in Colorado
In-State vs. Out-of-State Pathways
Colorado offers flexibility when it comes to choosing an EPP for your teacher license. The state has a searchable list of approved in-state EPPs. If you prefer an out-of-state program, like Moreland University’s TEACH-NOW program, you’ll simply follow Colorado’s process for out-of-state applicants.
Both in- and out-of-state pathways lead to the same license, so your choice often comes down to personal preference, schedule, and program structure. In-state programs may offer more face-to face interaction and local networking opportunities, while out-of-state programs (particularly online options) can provide greater flexibility for those balancing work or family commitments.
Steps to Licensure in Colorado
Let’s say you choose Moreland’s TEACH-NOW program, an out-of-state EPP for Colorado. Here’s an example of the steps you could take to earn your teaching license:
- Earn your bachelor’s degree. This degree does not need to be in education, so if you already have a bachelor’s in another field, you don’t need to redo this step.
- Complete your EPP. Moreland’s TEACH-NOW program is 100% online and can be completed in as little as 9 months.
- Demonstrate content knowledge. Colorado teachers take Praxis exams, and high school teachers will take the specific exams for their subject area. Colorado also allows teachers to demonstrate content knowledge in other ways, such as by holding a bachelor’s degree in your subject area or earning a B- or higher in particular courses.
- Get a completed verification form for your out-of-state EPP. You’ll get this from the registrar or certification officer of your EPP.
- Complete your background check through the Colorado Bureau of Investigation.
- Submit your licensure application through the Colorado Department of Education’s online system.
This is just one example of a potential path for a high school teacher in Colorado. For more detailed information, visit the Colorado Department of Education website.
Can You Become a High School Teacher in Colorado Without a Teaching Degree?
Yes, and in fact, Colorado actively welcomes career changers. If you hold a bachelor’s degree in any field, you can pursue your teaching license through a graduate-level EPP.
In many ways, holding a degree in your content area and/or bringing career experience from another field can enhance your skills as a teacher. At the high school level, as students are on the cusp of starting college or their own careers, your experience outside the classroom is even more relevant.
Ready to take the next step? Earn your professional teaching license in as little as 9 months with Moreland University. Our TEACH-NOW Teacher Preparation Certificate Program is fully accredited and 100% online, with rolling admissions and monthly start dates.
Once you complete the TEACH-NOW program, you have the option to add on a master’s degree in just 3 additional months.
Apply for free (the application only takes about 15 minutes), and you’ll hear back within 2 business days.
