How to Become a High School Teacher in Oregon
High school teachers are masters of their content. Whether they teach literature, language, or linear algebra, there’s a high school class for that. There are 340 high schools across Oregon, and demand for high school teachers is high because of retirements, teacher turnover, and other factors.
If you’re ready to turn your area of interest into a passion for teaching, a career in high school education might be for you! Keep reading to learn more about the process of earning your license and becoming a high school teacher in the Beaver State.
Comprehensive Guide on How to Become a Teacher in Oregon
The process of becoming a high school teacher in Oregon is similar to the process of becoming a teacher at any other level. The main differences will be based on the Educator Preparation Program (EPP) you choose and the content-specific exams you’ll need to pass.
For more information on the general process of becoming a teacher in Oregon, check out our How to Become a Teacher in Oregon guide. There are a variety of pathways to earning your license, and this guide explains the requirements and offers tips and advice to make your transition as seamless as possible.
What Do You Need to Be a High School Teacher in Oregon?
Oregon high school teachers must have a bachelor’s degree and complete an EPP. Then, they need to pass the required tests (which will vary depending on the certification area), submit an application, and clear fingerprint and background checks.
The timeline to becoming a high school teacher in Oregon will vary depending on your background and the licensure pathway you choose. If you have a high school diploma, for example, the timeline is typically around four years as you earn a bachelor’s degree in education.
If you already have a bachelor’s in another field, you don’t have to start over and may be able to move into an Oregon classroom much faster. You can complete a graduate-level EPP and earn your license that way. For example, Moreland University’s TEACH-NOW Teacher Preparation Certificate Program can be completed 100% online in as little as 9 months. It is important to note that TEACH-NOW is an out-of-state EPP in Oregon, so you would earn your teaching license in another state and use Oregon’s Reciprocal Teaching License process to transfer the credential to Oregon.
Steps to Becoming a High School Teacher in Oregon
Out-of-State Preparation Program
Oregon has a list of approved in-state EPPs. If you prefer an out-of-state program, like Moreland University’s TEACH-NOW program, you could earn your teaching license in another state or the District of Columbia and use Oregon’s Reciprocal Teaching License process to transfer the credential.
Here’s an example of that process, going through D.C.:
- Earn your bachelor’s degree. It does not necessarily have to be in education.
- Complete an EPP, like Moreland’s TEACH-NOW program.
- Pass the required certification exams for D.C. For example, if you want to teach high school biology, you would take a biology content exam as well as the Principles of Learning and Teaching (PLT) test for grades 7-12.
- Submit your fingerprints for a background check and apply for your D.C. teaching license.
- Apply to transfer your D.C. license to Oregon. You will use the Reciprocal Teaching License process.
- Complete any additional requirements. The Oregon Reciprocal Teaching License is valid for one year, giving you time to meet any outstanding licensure requirements.
It’s important to note this is just one example of a potential path for an out-of-state EPP in Oregon. For more detailed information, visit the state’s Teacher Standards and Practices Commission website.
In-State Preparation Program
If you choose an in-state EPP in Oregon, you’ll follow similar steps to earn your license:
- Earn a bachelor’s degree.
- Complete an EPP. Oregon has a list of approved in-state programs. Your EPP may or may not be part of your initial bachelor’s degree.
- Pass the required licensure exams. Oregon teachers take the Oregon Educator Licensure Assessments (administered by Pearson) as well as Praxis exams. Depending on the subject you want to teach — math, physics, social science, or another area — you’ll take the corresponding content exam(s).
- Submit your Oregon application. As part of the process, you’ll submit your fingerprints for a background check.
Again, this is one example of how a teacher could earn a license in Oregon. For more information, visit the TSPC website.
Why Reciprocity Might Make Sense for You
The best pathway to becoming a teacher in Oregon depends on your specific circumstances and professional goals. For some, the reciprocity or out-of-state pathway provides a practical and streamlined solution.
You might consider this path if:
- You hold an active teaching license in a different state and are planning a move to Oregon.
- You want more flexibility in your EPP choice, through an out-of-state or online provider. For example, because Moreland’s TEACH-NOW program is 100% online, with a live, virtual class once a week, it’s a strong option for career changers and/or those already working full-time jobs while balancing family and other responsibilities.
Ultimately, it’s about finding the approach that aligns with your needs. There’s no right or wrong answer; it’s about what works best for you.
Can You Become a High School Teacher in Oregon Without a Teaching Degree?
Yes, you can become a high school teacher without a teaching degree. In fact, especially in high school, where students are getting ready to begin their own careers, having experience in a non-teaching field can be a huge benefit. Oregon welcomes high school teachers who want to bring their diverse experiences and knowledge to the classroom.
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.
