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For TEACH-NOW graduates (or soon-to-be grads) learn how you can earn your M.Ed. in just 3 months with Moreland University. Discover: – Program timeline and structure – M.Ed. specialization options […]
U.S. Teacher Certification Program Online
Become a U.S. Licensed Teacher from Japan
Educators with a U.S. teaching license have an important competitive advantage in Japan, especially when it comes to getting jobs at top international schools. With Moreland University, you could earn your U.S. teaching license in as little as 9 months, 100% online.
Established in 2011, Moreland University is a fully accredited, teacher-focused university dedicated to empowering educators and shaping the future of education.
Explore this page:
Pathways to
Licensure
How to Become a U.S. Licensed Teacher from Japan
Info Sessions
International Partners
Testimonials
Accreditations & Approvals
Teacher Resources for Japan
Moreland Pathways for Japan-Based Educators
TEACH-NOW Teacher Preparation Certificate Program
Moreland’s 9-month TEACH-NOW program gives you practical coursework, test preparation, clinical learning (student teaching), and dedicated mentorship — everything you need to earn your license and succeed as a teacher in Japan.
Why choose Moreland’s online TEACH-NOW program:
- 9 months total, including 12 weeks of clinical learning
- 100% online, with a live virtual class once a week
- Global cohort model
- Affordable tuition with payment plans and financing options
- Rolling admissions and monthly start dates
- Option to add on an M.Ed. through Moreland University
Master’s in Education with Teaching Credential
Another pathway to licensure is our online M.Ed. with Teaching Credential. This 12-month program allows you to earn your U.S. license and your M.Ed. at an accelerated pace.
Why choose Moreland’s online M.Ed. program:
- 12 months total, including 12 weeks of clinical learning
- 100% online, with a live virtual class once a week
- Six specialization options
- Global cohort model
- Affordable tuition with payment plans & financing options
- Multiple start dates each year
Earning Your U.S. License from Japan
Because Japan does not issue U.S. teaching licenses, you'll earn your credential through a U.S. state or the District of Columbia. Moreland University recommends the Washington, D.C., pathway, because it is streamlined, globally respected, and accessible from anywhere in the world. All this means is you’ll follow D.C.’s steps to licensure and take the licensure exams required for D.C. teachers.
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.
How to Become a U.S. Licensed Teacher from Japan
Curious about what it takes to earn your U.S. teaching license while living and working in Japan?
General Requirements
To earn a U.S. teaching license, you’ll need:
- A bachelor’s degree
- A completed Educator Preparation Program (EPP)
- Passing scores on your licensure exams
- A clear background check
Testing Requirements
If you’re earning your U.S. teaching license through Washington, D.C., (our recommended route) you’ll take a series of Praxis exams. These will vary based on the subject and grades you wish to teach but will cover subject area(s) as well as general teaching skills and knowledge.
Teacher Education Requirements
If your bachelor's degree is in a field other than education, you could earn your U.S. teaching license through an alternative EPP, such as Moreland's 9-month, online TEACH-NOW program.
Why Educators in Japan Choose Moreland University
Moreland's TEACH-NOW program is fully accredited and 100% online, with small, diverse classes, dedicated mentors, and clinical learning (student teaching) included. You could complete the program in as little as 9 months from anywhere in the world.
- Affordable & flexible
- Rolling admissions
- Monthly start dates
- Global cohort model
There's never been a better time to earn your U.S. teaching license from Japan.
Live and Work in a Top Country
U.S. News & World Report recently ranked Japan as the No. 2 best country overall, citing a strong job market, economic and political stability, safety, and well-developed public education and health systems.
High Earning Potential
Japan values its teachers, and that is reflected in their salaries. According to gooverseas.com, Japan offers the world’s second-highest salaries for English teachers, depending on their certifications and experience.
Globally Respected Credential
By earning your teaching license through Washington, D.C., (the most common route for Moreland University candidates) you'll hold a credential that is highly respected worldwide, giving you opportunities in Japan and beyond.
Advanced Classroom Skills
Earning your U.S. license will strengthen your skills and give you a solid foundation in the science and practice of teaching. You’ll learn new strategies and teaching methods to better support your students.
Accelerated Path to Licensure
If you start today, you could be a fully licensed teacher in as little as 9 months. Moreland’s TEACH-NOW program was designed for working professionals who are balancing a job, family, and other responsibilities.
Learn Where You Are
It's easy to earn your U.S. teaching license while living in Japan. You can complete your program 100% online through Moreland University while working full-time.
Join an Info Session
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Join the Moreland University team for an overview of our certification pathways, including Moreland’s 9-month TEACH-NOW Teacher Preparation Certificate Program and 12-month Master’s in Education with Teaching Credential. Discover: – […]
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Join the Moreland University team for an overview of our master's degree programs, including Moreland’s 12-month Master’s in Education (M.Ed.), Master's in Educational Leadership, and Master's in Globalization and Education […] |
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Join the Moreland University team for an overview of our certification pathways, including Moreland’s 9-month TEACH-NOW Teacher Preparation Certificate Program and 12-month Master’s in Education with Teaching Credential. Discover: […] |
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In this exclusive session for the Charter Schools USA community, join the Moreland University team for an overview of the CSUSA Pathway to Certification powered by Moreland — including Moreland’s […] You’ve gained meaningful classroom experience, honed your teaching skills, and made a difference in students’ lives. So, how can you further your impact, advance your career, and boost your income? […] |
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Join the Moreland University team for an overview of teacher certification in Georgia along with tips and strategies for passing your certification exams. You’ll learn about Moreland's certification programs for […] |
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Join the Moreland University team for an overview of our certification pathways, including Moreland’s 9-month TEACH-NOW Teacher Preparation Certificate Program and 12-month Master’s in Education with Teaching Credential. Discover: – […] |
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Join the Moreland University team for an overview of our certification pathways, including Moreland’s 9-month TEACH-NOW Teacher Preparation Certificate Program and 12-month Master’s in Education with Teaching Credential. Discover: – […] |
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For TEACH-NOW graduates (or soon-to-be grads) learn how you can earn your M.Ed. in just 3 months with Moreland University. Discover: – Program timeline and structure – M.Ed. specialization options […] |
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Join the Moreland University team for an overview of teacher certification in Maryland along with tips and strategies for passing your certification exams. You’ll learn about Moreland's certification programs for […]
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Join the Moreland University team for an overview of our master's degree programs, including Moreland’s 12-month Master’s in Education (M.Ed.), Master's in Educational Leadership, and Master's in Globalization and Education […] |
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Join the Moreland University team for an overview of our certification pathways, including Moreland’s 9-month TEACH-NOW Teacher Preparation Certificate Program and 12-month Master’s in Education with Teaching Credential. Discover: […] |
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Join the Moreland University team for an overview of our certification pathways, including Moreland’s 9-month TEACH-NOW Teacher Preparation Certificate Program and 12-month Master’s in Education with Teaching Credential. Discover: […] |
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Join the Moreland University team for an overview of our certification pathways, including Moreland’s 9-month TEACH-NOW Teacher Preparation Certificate Program and 12-month Master’s in Education with Teaching Credential. Discover: – […] |
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Join the Moreland University team for an overview of our certification pathways, including Moreland’s 9-month TEACH-NOW Teacher Preparation Certificate Program and 12-month Master’s in Education with Teaching Credential. Discover: – […] |
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Join the Moreland University team for an overview of our certification pathways, including Moreland’s 9-month TEACH-NOW Teacher Preparation Certificate Program and 12-month Master’s in Education with Teaching Credential. Discover: – […] |
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Join the Moreland University team for an overview of our master's degree programs, including Moreland’s 12-month Master’s in Education (M.Ed.), Master's in Educational Leadership, and Master's in Globalization and Education […] |
1 event,
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For TEACH-NOW graduates (or soon-to-be grads) learn how you can earn your M.Ed. in just 3 months with Moreland University. Discover: – Program timeline and structure – M.Ed. specialization options […] |
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Join the Moreland University team for an overview of our certification pathways, including Moreland’s 9-month TEACH-NOW Teacher Preparation Certificate Program and 12-month Master’s in Education with Teaching Credential. Discover: – […] |
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Join the Moreland University team for an overview of our certification pathways, including Moreland’s 9-month TEACH-NOW Teacher Preparation Certificate Program and 12-month Master’s in Education with Teaching Credential. Discover: – […] |
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Live Info Sessions
Join one of our live information sessions to discover how Moreland University can help you become a U.S. licensed teacher from Japan.
On-Demand Info Session
Can’t wait? Watch our 10-minute on-demand info session now to learn how Moreland can support your journey to a U.S. license. At the end, submit any lingering questions and we’ll get back to you ASAP.
Our International Partners
Moreland University partners with schools, districts, and education organizations around the world to support teachers through certification and continuing education.
What International Educators Say About Moreland
“I feel like it actually opened up a lot of opportunities for me, even right now. Since I got the license, I feel more confident in myself and I feel like I am a better teacher than I was before. I got my growth mindset because of this. I got my confidence as a teacher.”
Seul Lee
International educator in South Korea
“It’s very respectful of your time and it’s quite easy to manage work-life balance. I [had] a one-hour video call once a week. The main thing is just selecting a time that works for you every single week, not just in the first week… and then allocating maybe two hours every week for reading and doing your deliverables… The certification is very time effective.”
Garrett Richardson
International educator in South Korea
“Moreland is the best of both worlds. If you want to have the flexibility of getting certified remotely but still get the practical, hands-on content of how to manage your classroom, what you need to do to meet the needs of the students, go to Moreland.”
Tiffesha Telesford
International educator in Taiwan
“I would tell [aspiring teachers] Moreland is a bridge to international schools because it prepares you to be a global teacher. It prepares you to meet the global village’s needs, so you not only become an international teacher but to move away from the Victorian system.”
Zibusiso “Zee” Ngwenya
International educator in Ireland
“[The program] is very good because it’s efficient for someone who’s working, you know? You can make sure your classes are on a weekend. You choose whatever time — anytime that’s available for you.”
Nikiwe Khambule
International educator in China
“I was intrigued by Moreland University because I could do everything online while still working full-time here, while going through having a new baby daughter. Rather than uprooting and moving back to the States, it was definitely more convenient and gave me more flexibility to do it on my own time.”
Chad Stephens
International educator in China
Accreditations & Approvals
We take great pride in being pioneers of online global teacher education and helping our candidates and alumni thrive.
More Resources for Teachers in Japan
GUIDE
Guide to U.S. Teacher Certification in Japan
INFOGRAPHIC
Discover 8 Benefits of Teaching Abroad in Japan
BLOG
How to Become a Teacher in Japan
GUIDE
The Ultimate Guide to U.S. and International Teacher Salaries
INFOGRAPHIC
How a U.S. Teaching License Benefits International Educators
WEBINAR
How Career Changers Can Become Teachers
FAQs
You have questions about becoming a U.S. licensed teacher from Japan. We have answers.
Why should I choose Moreland University as an educator in Japan?
You could earn your U.S. teaching license in as little as 9 months with Moreland University’s TEACH-NOW Teacher Preparation Certificate Program. The program is 100% online (no travel required), with rolling admissions, monthly start dates, and clinical learning (student teaching) included.
How much does it cost to get my U.S. teaching license through Moreland?
Tuition for Moreland University’s TEACH-NOW Teacher Preparation Certificate Program is $7,200. There is no application fee, and there are no additional costs or fees.
Moreland offers monthly payment plans as well as financing via Sallie Mae, with competitive interest rates, flexible repayment options, deferred payments while you’re in school, and grace periods after you graduate.
Is Moreland's teacher licensure program completely online?
Yes, Moreland University’s TEACH-NOW Teacher Preparation Certificate Program is 100% online. The clinical learning portion (student teaching) can be done in your current classroom. If you’re not currently teaching, Moreland can help you find a placement.
After you complete the TEACH-NOW program, you have the option to add on a master’s degree in just 3 additional months — again 100% online.
Which accreditations and approvals has Moreland earned?
Moreland is accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC) and the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), among others. Moreland was the first online program to be accredited by CAEP.
Have a different question? Let us know, and we’ll be in touch. We’re happy to chat through your specific goals and needs.