Georgia Teacher Certification Program Online

Become a Georgia Teacher
with Moreland University

Step into a rewarding career as an educator in Georgia, a proudly diverse state that offers teachers a myriad of benefits. Discover the joys of teaching in Georgia, how to become a Georgia teacher, and ways to power up your teaching career.

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Join one of our live information sessions to discover how Moreland University can help you become a successful and certified teacher in Georgia.

Georgia takes pride in its education
With 181 school districts of varying sizes containing over 2,200 schools where ~1.6 million students are educated, Georgia takes great pride in its education. ¹

Home to 2 of the 25-largest U.S.
school districts

Gwinnett County Public Schools in Suwanee, GA and Cobb County Schools in Marietta, GA represent 2 of the 25-largest U.S. school districts (ranking 11 and 23, respectively). ²

Contains the 13th most diverse U.S. school district
Georgia’s student body comprises multiple ethnicities, including 36.2% Black, 34.9% White, 18.7% Hispanic, and 4.9% Asian. ³ Also, Gwinnett County Public Schools is ranked as the 13th most diverse school district in America. ⁴

Consistent demand for qualified educators
With over 114,800 teachers currently employed in GA ¹ and a projected growth of 11% for secondary school teachers and 10% for elementary school teachers by 2030,⁶ there is a consistent demand for qualified educators in Georgia.

21st highest paid educators nationally
In 2023, NEA reported that Georgia teachers make an average of $62,240 per year (for ~10 months of work) — ranking 21st in the nation. ⁶

Reasonably low cost of living
Offering below-average housing costs, low taxes, and an affordable cost of living that’s lower than many other U.S. cities, GA is a great place for teachers and others to work and live. ⁷

Sources: ¹ Georgia Department of Education ² Niche – 2024 largest school districts ³ Georgia Department of Education – Enrollment by Ethnicity/Race
Niche – 2024 Most Diverse Schools in AmericaO*NET OnLine – Georgia Employment TrendsNational Education AssociationGeorgia Department of Economic Development

Moreland University partners with school districts across Georgia to support teachers through certification and continuing education programs.

Don’t see your district above? Not currently working in a school district?
No worries! We can still help you achieve teaching certification and success in Georgia. Keep scrolling to discover the
Moreland University difference for Georgia teachers.


“Moreland University’s TEACH-NOW certification program has and continues to help Clayton County educators achieve professional certification in just 9 months. TEACH-NOW consistently meets our teachers’ demands for an affordable program with a quick enrollment process, which has resulted in the retention of many educators who would have otherwise faced non-renewal. This program is my top recommendation due to its cost-effectiveness and ability to cater to diverse needs while ensuring initial certification with only the necessary Georgia assessments. My positive perception of TEACH-NOW was further strengthened when my district partnered with them. The exceptional personalized support we receive from the Moreland Team is invaluable as we collaboratively work toward shared goals.”

Rose Wilson
Human Resources Certification Manager, Clayton County Public Schools

“Becoming a teacher in Atlanta Public School is an enriching journey that’s enhanced by our partnership with Moreland University. Their comprehensive Teacher Certification program with a 12-week clinical learning experience can be completed in just nine months in a flexible online setting. By equipping our educators with the necessary skills and knowledge, we’re not just preparing them for success; we’re empowering them to make a lasting impact on the lives of our students.”

Rita McGlothin
HR Talent Management & Development, Atlanta Public Schools

“Sometimes people make the assumption that there’s a cookie-cutter background they have to match. The worst thing they can do is discount their own experiences. A lot of times when we talk to career changers about their perspective and what they’re interested in teaching, they ask me about background. Does it match? It doesn’t have to match. You have to have a passion for kids — a desire to leave a legacy with them and to impact the next generation. Cause day in and day out you’ll have some rough days, but that passion is there. The background is secondary to your passion.”

Quiana Peterson
Instructional Recruitment Partner
Lake County Schools in Florida

“I have found Moreland’s program to be rigorous and the curriculum holds a high standard for our teachers to be effectively prepared to enter the classroom. All the staff at Moreland have been collaborative and very easy with whom to work. We have regular meetings to assess progress and provide information sessions to our educators. The Moreland staff is timely in their communications and very responsive to our needs.”

Brittany Mackel
Instructional Specialist
Montgomery County Public Schools in Maryland

“It’s important for students to be able to see themselves in their teachers. It’s pivotal for us to be able to recruit and bring in teachers that can inspire students from all areas. There are so many different pathways to enter our profession, and we’re looking for people with bachelor’s degrees that didn’t necessarily go to school to be teachers. Not that we don’t want people who went to school to be teachers, of course, but we also want people that come from unique backgrounds. Kids have to look at their teachers and say, ‘Oh, that looks like me! I can do that! Oh, that’s another way of seeing the world.’ So, we need people from all over and all different types of
industry to really consider ‘what kind of gifts do I have?’”

Dumarie Rodriguez-Dillard
Director of Leadership Pathways, Recruitment/Retention
& Certification
Seminole County Public Schools in Florida

“You should know it’s a sellers’ market. Even if you’re someone who doesn’t have a traditional teaching degree, school districts are looking for everyone — especially folks like you who have expertise and some things that folks who came out of traditional education preparation programs might not have. Folks who come out of these [traditional] educational preparation programs are 21, 22. They don’t have the same type of background that you have in terms of the professional field.”

Dr. Daman Harris
Manager, PDS Program and IHE Partnerships
Anne Arundel County Public Schools


Curious about what it takes to become a certified teacher in Georgia? Our comprehensive guide breaks down the key
requirements you’ll need to meet to get your Georgia teaching certification:

General Requirements
Discover the essential steps to certification — from earning a bachelor’s degree to applying for Georgia teacher certification.

Testing Requirements
Understand the required exams, such as the Georgia Certification of Educators (GACE) exams and Georgia Educator Ethics Assessment.

Teacher Education Requirements
Learn about the education pathways available to aspiring teachers whether you have a degree in education or another field.

Download this comprehensive guide that offers a streamlined overview of how to become a certified teacher in Georgia.

At Moreland, learning is a collaborative effort. Our experienced faculty members provide guidance and support throughout the teacher certification journey — empowering you with the knowledge, network, and skills to thrive as a Georgia teacher.

Moreland’s nine-month online teacher preparation certificate program helps you gain a 360-degree understanding of teaching and empowers you for teaching success in Georgia.

  • Completable in 9 months
  • 100% online with synchronous and asynchronous
    engagement
  • Global cohort model
  • Affordable tuition with payment plans and financing options
  • Monthly start dates
  • Suitable for current and aspiring educators around the world
  • Option to add on an M.Ed. through Moreland University

Another pathway to certification in Georgia is our online M.Ed. with teaching credential, which can be completed in 12 months — helping you level up your teaching career.

  • Completable in 12 months
  • 100% online with synchronous and asynchronous engagement
  • 6 specializations in impactful fields
  • Global cohort model
  • Affordable tuition with payment plans and financing options
  • Multiple start dates each year
  • Suitable for current and aspiring educators around the world

Need help deciding? Our admissions representatives are happy to chat 1:1 about your specific goals, interests, and needs — including financing options via Sallie Mae.

See what U.S. educators have to say about Moreland University:

“What I loved most about Moreland University was that they were very flexible, and the instructors were very supportive and very informative. Whenever I had questions, they were available and would respond…almost immediately. And they were very clear when they answered the question. It was such a great program to be a part of, especially when I was working full time as a teacher both when I got my certification and when I did the master’s add-on.”

Carisa Frisby
Arizona educator
M.Ed. Educational Research with Certificate graduate, 2021

“Moreland University’s programs, the instructors and staff, will work with a student when “life happens” as they understand that we are all balancing demanding careers, certification and/or master’s work and family needs as we complete our studies. The convenience was one of the major factors that attracted me to Moreland University, as well as the small cohort size, quality of instructors, not to mention the affordability. I changed careers after retiring early and I am very happy with the education that I have received, particularly as it relates to technology in the classroom. I am a better teacher, and more than qualified, as a result of Moreland University’s array of programs and degrees.”

Beth Gambrell
U.S. educator
TEACH-NOW graduate, 2023

“It is very accessible yet teaches hands-on practical things to future-teachers. I also made wonderful friends around the world in my cohort.”

Duo Chen
Maryland educator
TEACH-NOW graduate, 2022

“The classroom has totally changed since I was a kid. All the technology, software, and tools available! I wanted to learn about that. Also, I wanted guidance on classroom management…The main appeal for me was that you can be anywhere in the world and take the classes and do the curriculum with Moreland University.”

Janie Mabe
Virginia educator
TEACH-NOW graduate, 2022

“What I like most about Moreland University is the ease of being able to connect online and having knowledgeable professors that constantly support you. Especially when English is your second language, and it is not easy for you to express yourself widely.”

Brenda Guerrero de Deniz
Maryland educator
TEACH-NOW graduate, 2023

“As a graduate student at Moreland University, I benefit from the high-quality academic programs and rigorous standards of education. My instructors are renowned for their expertise, dedication to teaching, and commitment to fostering an engaging learning environment. My cohort provides a supportive and collaborative platform.”

Elizabeth Rakis
Maryland educator
TEACH-NOW graduate, 2024



You’ve got questions about becoming a certified teacher in Georgia, and we’ve got answers!

How do I become a Georgia teacher?

Becoming a teacher in Georgia typically involves several steps, such as earning your bachelor’s degree, completing a teacher preparation program (such as Moreland University’s nine-month TEACH-NOW Teacher Preparation Certificate Program), completing certification exams (which typically includes the Georgia Assessments for the Certification of Educators and Georgia Educator Ethics Assessment), undergoing a background check, and applying for your teaching license in Georgia. With your GA teaching certification in hand, you can search for teaching positions in Georgia schools.

Specific requirements for Georgia certification can vary. If you have questions about the process of getting your teaching certification in Georgia, Moreland University admissions representatives would be happy to chat more. Give us a call at 1(844) 283-2246 or email us at admissions@moreland.edu.

Do I need a teaching certification to teach in Georgia?

In most cases, you need to hold a valid teaching license or certification to teach in public schools in Georgia. Having a valid teaching license demonstrates you have completed the necessary education and training to work as a teacher in Georgia. It also ensures educators meet certain standards of knowledge, skills, and professionalism required to teach effectively.

That said, there are some potential exceptions that may allow individuals to teach in Georgia without a teaching license. Some examples include:

  • Provisional Certification: In situations where there is a critical shortage of certified teachers, school districts may hire individuals on emergency or provisional certifications — enabling them to work toward obtaining full certification while teaching.
  • Charter Schools and Private Schools: Charter schools and private schools in Georgia may have different requirements for teacher certification compared to public schools. Some charter and private schools in Georgia may hire teachers who do not hold traditional teaching certifications. However, it’s often preferable for Georgia teachers to have their teaching license.

While it may be possible to teach without a traditional teaching license in certain situations, obtaining certification is generally recommended to boost your credibility and expertise as an educator and for long-term career prospects and professional development as certification can lead to advanced career opportunities and provide access to additional benefits and resources.

If you’re considering teaching without certification, it’s essential to research the specific requirements and opportunities available in Georgia and consult with school districts or educational organizations for guidance.

What are the requirements for Georgia teacher certification?

To become a teacher in Georgia, you must meet the following requirements:

✓ Possess a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university
✓ Have completed a state-approved teacher preparation program, such as Moreland University’s TEACH-NOW program
✓ Pass the required certification exams, which often includes the Georgia Assessments for the Certification of Educators (GACE) and other exams based on the grade level and subject area you wish to teach
✓ Pass a criminal background check
✓ Depending on the type of certification you’re seeking, there may be additional requirements such as completing certain coursework or demonstrating proficiency in specific teaching methods

It’s important to note that requirements and procedures may change over time, so it’s advisable to check with the Georgia Professional Standards Commission or the Georgia Department of Education for the most up-to-date information.

If you have further questions about the requirements for getting your teaching license in Georgia, Moreland University admissions representatives would be happy to chat more. Give us a call at 1 (844) 283-2246 or email us at admissions@moreland.edu.

What are the steps to get a teaching certification in Georgia?

To obtain a teaching certification in Georgia, you’ll typically need to follow these steps:

1. Earn a bachelor’s degree: Obtain a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university.
2. Complete a teacher preparation program: Enroll in and complete a state-approved teacher preparation program, like Moreland University’s TEACH-NOW online teacher preparation program.
3. Pass required exams: Take and pass the required exams, which often includes the Georgia Assessments for the Certification of Educators (GACE).
4. Undergo a background check: All teachers in Georgia must pass a background check before they can become certified.
5. Apply for certification: Apply for teacher certification through the Georgia Professional Standards Commission (GaPSC) during which you’ll submit your transcripts, exam scores, and any other required documentation.

It’s important to note that specific requirements and procedures may vary depending on factors such as the subject area, grade level, and type of certification. Be sure to check with the Georgia Professional Standards Commission or the Georgia Department of Education for the most up-to-date information.

How do I maintain my Georgia teaching certification?

To maintain your teaching certification in Georgia, you typically need to fulfill certain requirements for renewal. Here are the general steps to maintain your Georgia teaching certification:

  • Complete Continuing Education: In some cases, Georgia requires teachers to complete continuing education hours or credits to renew their certification. The exact number of hours or credits can vary depending on the type of certification and the renewal cycle. Continuing education opportunities may include workshops, conferences, graduate courses, or other professional development activities related to teaching and education.
  • Submit Renewal Application: Prior to the expiration of your certification, you’ll need to submit a renewal application to the Georgia Professional Standards Commission (GaPSC). The renewal application may require you to provide evidence of completing continuing education hours or credits.
  • Pay Renewal Fee: There is typically a renewal fee associated with renewing your teaching certification in Georgia. Be sure to submit the renewal fee along with your application.
  • Maintain Good Standing: To renew your certification, you must maintain good standing as a teacher in Georgia. This includes adhering to the Georgia Code of Ethics for Educators and complying with any other professional standards or regulations set forth by the Georgia Professional Standards Commission.
  • Stay Informed: Keep yourself informed about any changes or updates to the renewal requirements and procedures set forth by the Georgia Professional Standards Commission. It’s important to stay up to date with any changes to ensure a smooth renewal process.

By completing these steps and fulfilling the renewal requirements, you can maintain your Georgia teaching certification and continue teaching in Georgia schools. Be sure to check with the Georgia Professional Standards Commission or the Georgia Department of Education for the most current information and guidance regarding certification renewal.

How long does it take to become a certified teacher in Georgia?

The timeline to become a certified teacher in Georgia can vary depending on several factors, including your education, the type of certification you’re pursuing, and whether you choose a traditional or alternative certification pathway.

Both the traditional and alternative certification pathways typically require a bachelor’s degree, which usually takes four years of full-time study to earn (or longer if enrolled part time).

If you choose the traditional route to certification, you’ll need to complete a state-approved teacher preparation program. These programs often take around one to two years to complete, including coursework and student teaching or field experience.

If you choose an alternative pathway to certification, the timeline will likely be shorter. Moreland University’s TEACH-NOW program — offered 100% online — takes only 9 months to complete.

Before applying for certification, you’ll also need to pass the required certification exams and complete a background check. The time it takes to prepare for and pass the certification exams can vary, and the processing time for background checks can take up to a couple of months.

How much do Georgia teachers make?

How much Georgia teachers earn as a salary can depend on multiple factors such as experience, education, subject area, grade level, and school district. However, in 2023 the National Education Association reported that Georgia teachers make an average of $62,240 per year — the 21st highest average salary nationally. It’s worth noting that this is for ~10 months of work as teachers have the summer off as well as some time off during the school year. Those who pursue a master’s in education (M.Ed.) can often make even more money while increasing their career trajectory.

How much money can I make starting out as a Georgia teacher?

Starting salaries for new teachers in Georgia can vary depending on several factors, including the school district, education level, teaching experience, subject area, and grade level. In 2023, the National Education Association found Georgia’s average teacher starting salary is $38,926 — ranking 41st in the nation. This is typically for ~10 months of work as teachers get the summer and time during the year off.

Some school districts may offer higher starting salaries to attract and retain qualified teachers for in-demand roles while others may offer lower salaries based on factors such as cost of living, which is considerably low in Georgia.

Why should I choose Moreland University as a Georgia educator?

There are many reasons Moreland University is a great option for current and aspiring educators in Georgia.

Notably, Moreland University is accredited — ensuring our programs meet high standards of quality and are recognized by employers and state education agencies. Moreland University also has a strong reputation within Georgia, the broader United States, and internationally for producing highly qualified educators, providing you credibility in the field.

Additionally, Moreland University offers a supportive online learning environment for current and aspiring Georgia teachers. With monthly start dates, experienced faculty, and expert support across the entire certification journey, Moreland University is a flexible and effective pathway to get your teaching certification in Georgia or uplevel your teaching career.

How can I learn more about becoming a certified teacher in Georgia?

As an aspiring teacher in Georgia, the Georgia Professional Standards Commission (GaPSC) is an invaluable resource that can guide you through the teacher certification process.

The GaPSC website provides comprehensive information on the steps to becoming a certified teacher, exam requirements, how to apply for a GA teaching license, and more. You can also find information on Georgia educator preparation institute programs like Moreland University’s TEACH-NOW program if you are pursuing an alternative pathway to teacher certification in Georgia.

We take great pride in being pioneers of online global teacher education and helping our candidates and alumni thrive.

Distance Education Accrediting Commission
Accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission. DEAC is listed by the U.S. Department of Education as a recognized accrediting agency, and is recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).

Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation
CAEP is the principal accrediting body for schools of education in the United States. We were the first online program to be accredited by CAEP.

At Moreland University, we offer flexible programs with monthly cohort start dates, enabling you to apply and enroll at any time.