How to Become a High School Teacher in Arizona


| by Alex Skov

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If you’re passionate about helping students succeed and want to become a high school teacher in Arizona, you will want to be familiar with the steps and requirements needed to earn your teaching certification in the Grand Canyon state. Whether you’re just starting your educational journey or transitioning from a different career, this guide details the processes and pathways to becoming a certified high school teacher in Arizona.

Comprehensive Guide on How to Become a Teacher in Arizona 

Becoming a high school teacher in Arizona shares many steps with becoming a teacher at other levels in the state, but there are a few differences worth noting. High school teachers often need to focus on a specific subject area, such as math, science, or English, and may need to meet additional content knowledge requirements for that subject. 

For a detailed breakdown of the steps on how to become a high school teacher in Arizona, review all the insights for current and aspiring educators in our how to become a teacher in Arizona guide, which provides additional information about the certification process, necessary exams, and tips on navigating Arizona’s state-specific requirements for teachers.

What Do You Need to Be a High School Teacher in Arizona? 

To become a high school teacher in Arizona, you must take a few basic steps to meet the state’s educational and certification standards: 

  • Earn a bachelor’s degree: You must hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, like a university or college. Your degree can be in any subject.
  • Complete an Educator Preparation Program (EPP): An EPP can either be part of your bachelor’s degree — which is common for individuals who majored in education in college — or a separate program. Arizona requires this program to include student teaching experience, like the clinical learning portion of Moreland’s TEACH-NOW Teacher Preparation Certificate Program.
  • Pass Arizona’s educator exams: The state requires high school teachers to pass general knowledge tests as well as subject-specific and grade-appropriate exams within the Arizona Educator Proficiency Assessments (AEPA).
  • Apply for certification: Once you’ve met the educational requirements and passed your state-specific tests, you can apply for your teaching certificate with the Arizona Department of Education (ADE). Once you’re approved, you’re ready to teach as a fully licensed professional! 

Steps to Becoming a High School Teacher in Arizona

1. Earn a Bachelor’s Degree 

Becoming a high school teacher in Arizona — like in most states — requires you to complete a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university before anything else. High school graduates who know they want to teach often major in education or in the subject area they want to eventually teach. However, individuals with bachelor’s degrees in fields other than education can become Arizona high school teachers, too.  

2. Complete an Educator Preparation Program (EPP) 

In addition to your degree, you’ll need to complete a state-approved Educator Preparation Program (EPP), like Moreland’s TEACH-NOW. These programs help you develop essential teaching skills, and they usually include student teaching modules that help you gain important hands-on experience with classroom management, lesson planning, and other responsibilities. 

3. Pass the Required Arizona Certification Exams 

Arizona requires high school teachers to pass tests on both subject matter expertise and teaching skills as part of the Arizona Educator Proficiency Assessments (AEPA). Arizona teachers must also pass a professional knowledge exam that measures their understanding of instructional practices. 

4. Apply for Arizona Certification 

Once you have completed your bachelor’s degree and EPP and passed the required exams, you can apply for your teaching certification through the Arizona Department of Education (ADE). This process typically involves submitting your exam scores, transcripts, and any necessary fees. Arizona also requires teachers to pass a background check and fingerprinting. 

5. Start Your Teaching Career 

Once you have an Arizona teaching certification, you’re ready to start applying for high school teaching positions! Whether you choose to work in public, charter, or private schools, Arizona offers a range of opportunities with diverse student populations for educators passionate about guiding the next generation. 

Can You Become a High School Teacher in Arizona Without a Teaching Degree? 

Yes, you can absolutely become a high school teacher in Arizona without a teaching degree! The state offers alternative pathways for individuals who have a bachelor’s degree in another field but still want to be teachers. If you have a non-education degree, you can find more details about how to become a high school teacher and information about our flexible, online Arizona teacher certification program designed for individuals working full-time. 

Become a High School Teacher in Arizona with Moreland 

Whether you’re starting with a bachelor’s degree in a non-education field or you’re an experienced teacher looking to advance your career with a master’s degree, Moreland is ready to support you, your goals, and your career growth as a high school teacher in Arizona. Explore your teaching certification options and take the next step in your teaching journey by requesting more information or applying to your certification or master’s program today!  

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