How to Become a Teacher in Arizona – What Degree Do You Need to Be a Teacher for 2025?

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

U.S. classrooms are often diverse, with students from various cultural, socioeconomic, and linguistic backgrounds. Teachers are expected to create inclusive and equitable learning environments that cater to the needs of all students.

According to studies, about 88% of individuals have attributed significant positive impact teachers have had on their lives (McLoughlin, 2023). This underscores the importance of educators in shaping not only academic growth but also personal development and character building.

In this guide, we will be discussing the teacher in Arizona requirements and what it is like to work as a teacher in the state. Whether you are looking for the best online early childhood education associate degree program or you want to pursue the highest educational degree, there are many options for you in Arizona.

How to Become a Teacher in Arizona Table of Contents

Overview of the Teaching Industry in Arizona
Educational Requirements for Teachers in Arizona
Teacher in Arizona Licensure Application and Renewal Process
Understanding Teacher Certification Pathways in Arizona
What are the initial steps to take when considering a teaching career in Arizona?
How can I specialize in teaching English in Arizona?
What are the financial incentives and benefits for teachers in Arizona?
What are the challenges of teaching in Arizona?
How can further education enhance my teaching career in Arizona?
What are the essential steps for special education teacher certification in Arizona?
What support resources are available for new teachers in Arizona?
What are the key differences between early childhood education and elementary education degree programs?
What are alternative education career paths in Arizona?
How can I pursue a career in special education in Arizona?
What are the daily duties of a teacher in Arizona?
List of Top Teaching Programs in Arizona for 2025
How can I transition to online teaching in Arizona?
How do teacher certification requirements affect career advancement in Arizona?
How do I obtain a substitute teaching license in Arizona?
Can speech therapy certification expand my career opportunities in Arizona?
How can I specialize in art education in Arizona?
What are the essential requirements for kindergarten teachers in Arizona?
What are the special requirements for private school teachers in Arizona?

Overview of the Teaching Industry in Arizona

The Arizona Department of Education offers several pathways for becoming a teacher in Arizona. This includes traditional bachelor’s degree educator preparation programs, traditional or alternative post-baccalaureate educator preparation programs, and alternative educator preparation certificate programs.

According to our research team, the salary for teachers in Arizona is slightly lower compared to other states in the U.S. In Arizona, public school teachers earn an average of $56,056 (Salary.com, 2023). For comparison, the average salary for the same profession in other states is: $58,809 in Illinois, $60,978 in Minnesota, $63,130 in California, and $59,013 in Maryland (Salary.com, 2023).

Additionally, the cost of living in Arizona is six percent higher than the national average (RentCafe, 2023). However, due to the continuing problem of a shortage of educators, there has been a proposal to increase the pay for teachers in the state. This also includes increasing wages for support staff such as classroom aides, security, and cafeteria workers.

Educational Requirements for Teachers in Arizona

In the U.S., there are 2,006,810 elementary school teachers, 291,724 K12 teachers, and 641,485 middle school and junior high teachers. Additionally, there are 992,386 teachers in high school and 75,503 teachers in non-traditional teaching roles all over the country (McLoughlin, 2023). These numbers demonstrate the significant presence of educators across various educational levels in the U.S.

To become a teacher in Arizona, here are the educational requirements you need to complete:

Bachelor’s degree: To become a teacher in Arizona, the minimum education requirement is a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. The Arizona Department of Education requires specific coursework based on the desired teaching area of focus. You can also go for a specialization, such as a master’s program in early child development or secondary education.
Teacher preparation program: Applicants must complete an approved teacher in Arizona training program. This teacher preparation program in Arizona can be part of a bachelor’s degree, a separate post-baccalaureate certificate, or a master’s program and should also be completed at an accredited school.
Certification exams: In the state of Arizona, aspiring educators need to pass the Arizona Educator Proficiency Assessment to ensure that they are qualified to teach in Arizona public schools (AEPA, 2023 and Teaching Arizona, n.d.). They must also pass the National Evaluation Series (NES) to apply for a state certification.

The Arizona Department of Education also has alternative certification pathways. You can choose to teach a career and technical education, such as agriculture, consumer sciences, or marketing, with a CTE certification. If you are wondering how to become a teacher in Arizona without a teaching degree, the answer is technically yes. However, your teaching will only be limited to technical education courses and nothing more.

Teacher in Arizona Licensure Application and Renewal Process

A report by the Arizona School Personnel Administrators Association found that as of September 2023, there were 29.7% of teacher vacancies across the state (ASPAA, 2023). As such, the state of Arizona has continuously emphasized the need for more qualified educators to work in the state.

If you want to become a teacher in Arizona, you need to be familiar with the licensure application and renewal process. Here is a comprehensive guide to help you:

Licensure Application Process:

After passing the certification exam for teachers in Arizona, you are then required to complete a criminal history record check through the Arizona Automated Fingerprint Identification System. The fingerprint clearance cards must be completed through the Arizona Department of Public Safety.
Submit your Arizona Identity Verified Prints (IVP) fingerprint card to the Arizona Department of Education (AZDE) unit along with the other requirements stated on their website. You are also required to pay a non-refundable application fee.
Once you have submitted all the requirements, wait for an email from the AZDE verifying that you are now a certified educator in the state. The standard teaching certificate in Arizona is valid for six years. You can go to the Arizona teacher certification lookup site to search for a teacher license in the state.

Licensure Renewal Process:

To renew your teaching license in Arizona, you need to complete 180 hours of professional development or 12 credit hours of education courses verified by your school district. You can apply for a license renewal within six months of its six-year expiration date and pay the required fee.
If you have an Arizona Provisional Teaching Certificate, you must apply to have it converted to a Standard Teaching Certificate within two months of the expiration date. Requirements include completion of the Application to Convert, which is to be mailed along with a photocopy of your fingerprint card and verification of two years of full-time teaching experience.
Beginning September 24, 2022, educators who hold lapsed, renewable certificate(s) that have expired for at least two years but not more than ten years may renew under the Experienced Educator rule. Additionally, if your certificate has lapsed for less than two years or more than ten years, you will need to reapply and meet current requirements.

Understanding Teacher Certification Pathways in Arizona

Arizona offers a range of teacher certification options designed to accommodate diverse professional backgrounds and career goals. Understanding these pathways is essential for aspiring educators who want to secure their teaching credentials efficiently and affordably.

The Arizona Department of Education (ADE) provides traditional pathways, such as completing a bachelor's degree in education and passing required licensure exams. However, for those who already hold a degree in another field, alternative routes like the Educator Preparation Programs (EPPs) offer a chance to transition into teaching. Candidates can also explore emergency or provisional certificates, which address teacher shortages in high-need areas while allowing educators to gain classroom experience as they work toward full certification.

Moreover, ADE emphasizes flexibility in certification processes by offering options such as subject-matter expert certificates for individuals with advanced knowledge in specific areas or specialized credentials like Career and Technical Education (CTE) certifications for those focusing on vocational subjects.

If you are seeking the most cost-effective way to enter the teaching profession, understanding the different types of teaching certificates in Arizona is critical. Exploring such options ensures you pursue a pathway that aligns with your budget and career goals. For a detailed guide on affordable credentialing options, visit this comprehensive resource: types of teaching certificates in Arizona.

In summary, whether you are transitioning careers or starting fresh, Arizona's certification pathways provide the flexibility to fit your unique circumstances, while addressing the state's ongoing demand for qualified educators.

What are the initial steps to take when considering a teaching career in Arizona?

When considering a teaching career in Arizona, it is essential to understand the various pathways and requirements. To start, one must research the different types of teaching certificates available and the necessary qualifications. For those interested in knowing more about the process, visiting how to become an elementary school teacher in Arizona can provide valuable insights and guidance on the initial steps to take. Additionally, understanding the daily duties and challenges of teaching in Arizona can help aspiring educators make informed decisions about their career paths.

What are the financial incentives and benefits for teachers in Arizona?

Arizona teaching positions may offer supplemental financial benefits that enhance the overall compensation package. Some districts provide signing bonuses, retention incentives, and professional development stipends that help offset the higher cost of living. Additionally, educators can access comprehensive health insurance options and robust retirement programs tailored to long-term financial security. For those considering specialized roles, detailed information on subject-specific pathways, such as how to become an english teacher in Arizona, can further elucidate available benefits and compensation advancements.

What are the challenges of teaching in Arizona?

Teaching in Arizona comes with unique challenges. Here are the main ones to consider:

Low Teacher Pay: Although efforts are underway to increase salaries, Arizona's teacher pay remains below the national average, making it harder to attract and retain qualified professionals.
High Student-to-Teacher Ratios: Many classrooms in Arizona face overcrowding due to teacher shortages, which can make effective teaching and individualized attention more difficult.
Cost of Living: Arizona's cost of living is about 6% higher than the national average, which financially strains teachers, especially in urban areas like Phoenix and Tucson.
Limited Resources: Teachers in some districts report a lack of funding for classroom supplies, technology, and extracurricular programs, which can hinder student learning and teacher morale.
Teacher Shortages in Rural Areas: Rural districts often struggle to fill teaching positions. Teachers in these areas may face long commutes or fewer resources and support systems.
Professional Development Requirements: Arizona teachers must complete 180 hours of professional development or 12 education credit hours every six years for license renewal. Balancing these requirements with a full-time teaching job can be demanding.

Despite these challenges, many teachers find satisfaction in shaping young minds and contributing to their communities. Programs offering affordable pathways to teaching careers, like the cheapest online teaching degree, can ease some burdens and encourage more educators to join the profession.

How can further education enhance my teaching career in Arizona?

Pursuing advanced studies can open additional career pathways, enhance instructional strategies, and provide broader leadership opportunities within Arizona’s educational landscape. Teachers looking to expand their expertise may consider graduate programs that align with evolving classroom challenges and administrative roles. For instance, enrolling in a master's in elementary education online program can offer targeted pedagogical training and prepare educators for future leadership positions.

What are the essential steps for special education teacher certification in Arizona?

Aspiring special education teachers in Arizona must follow a structured process to obtain proper credentials. Candidates should secure a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution and complete a specialized educator preparation program focused on special education methodologies. Accumulating required field experience under approved supervision and meeting clinical practice hour mandates further validate a candidate’s competence. Finally, successful completion of state certification examinations confirms readiness for classroom responsibilities. For detailed information regarding qualifications and the procedural framework, refer to the special education teacher certification in Arizona.

What support resources are available for new teachers in Arizona?

Starting a teaching career in Arizona comes with challenges, but there are numerous resources and support systems in place to help new educators transition smoothly into their roles and excel in the classroom.

Mentorship Programs: Many school districts in Arizona offer mentorship programs where experienced teachers guide new educators, offering support in classroom management, lesson planning, and navigating school culture. This mentorship provides a valuable support network and hands-on advice from those with experience in the field.
Professional Development Workshops: The Arizona Department of Education and local education organizations regularly host workshops and seminars. These cover a range of topics, including curriculum development, behavioral management, and incorporating technology into lessons, which can help new teachers refine their skills and adapt to evolving educational standards.
Teacher Support Networks: Joining support groups and online forums can be beneficial for new teachers to share experiences, resources, and advice with their peers. Organizations like the Arizona Education Association (AEA) provide a platform for connecting with other educators across the state.
Financial Assistance and Grants: Arizona offers financial assistance through programs like the Arizona Teachers Academy, which covers tuition for teaching programs in exchange for a commitment to teach in Arizona. Additionally, new teachers may find grants available for classroom supplies and materials.
Mental Health Resources: Teaching can be demanding, so many districts and education organizations provide mental health resources, including counseling services and wellness programs, to support teachers’ well-being.

With these resources, new teachers in Arizona can build a strong foundation for a successful and fulfilling career in education.

What are the key differences between early childhood education and elementary education degree programs?

When choosing a degree program, it is important to align your academic focus with your career goals. Early childhood education concentrates on developmental theories, play-based learning, and fostering early social skills, while elementary education emphasizes structured instruction in core subjects and classroom management techniques for older students. For a comprehensive breakdown of program distinctions, review early childhood education vs elementary education degree programs key differences.

What are alternative education career paths in Arizona?

Beyond classroom teaching, Arizona offers diverse roles in education that support academic environments and enrich student experiences. Professionals can pursue positions in educational technology, administration, and resource management. For instance, individuals interested in managing library services or curating academic resources may consider specialized training and certification. Detailed guidance on qualifications and application processes is essential for those seeking roles such as how to be a school librarian in Arizona.

How can I pursue a career in special education in Arizona?

Special education in Arizona requires a distinct set of skills and certification pathways tailored to meet the needs of students with diverse learning challenges. Educators must gain specialized knowledge in developing and implementing individualized education programs (IEPs) and employ adaptive teaching strategies while meeting state and federal guidelines. Interested candidates should explore dedicated training programs and certification processes that emphasize both theoretical instruction and practical classroom experience. For structured guidance on requirements and next steps, review how to become a special education teacher in Arizona. This resource outlines the essential criteria and provides insights into advancing a career within this specialized field.

What are the daily duties of a teacher in Arizona?

Beyond the qualifications, becoming a teacher in Arizona means embarking on a rewarding yet challenging career. After completing a bachelor of education online and getting your license, you can now prepare yourself on what a typical day might look like for a teacher in Arizona.

Lesson Planning & Preparation: Teachers spend a significant amount of time outside of school hours planning engaging lessons tailored to Arizona's academic standards. This may involve researching, gathering materials, and creating activities that cater to diverse learning styles.
Classroom Management: Arizona classrooms are known for their cultural and socioeconomic diversity. Teachers play a crucial role in creating a positive and inclusive learning environment for all students. This involves fostering respectful interactions, implementing effective classroom management strategies, and addressing individual student needs.
Instruction & Facilitation: The core responsibility of a teacher involves delivering engaging and effective instruction. This might include lectures, discussions, hands-on activities, and utilizing technology to enhance learning. Teachers in Arizona also assess student progress regularly, providing feedback and adapting their teaching methods as needed.
Collaboration & Communication: Teachers in Arizona often collaborate with other educators, specialists, and parents to ensure student success. This could involve attending departmental meetings, Individualized Education Program (IEP) meetings, and conferences with parents and guardians.
Professional Development: Continual learning is a hallmark of the teaching profession. Arizona teachers may participate in professional development workshops offered by the Arizona Department of Education or their school districts to stay updated on best practices and educational trends.

List of Top Teaching Programs in Arizona for 2025

According to statistics, teachers make up a total of 2.5% of the entire U.S. workforce (McLoughlin, 2023). Many educators who want to work in elementary schools have often completed a traditional or online masters in early childhood. Others also opt to specialize in areas that they are interested in and pursue a doctor’s degree in education.

If you want to enroll in teacher in Arizona programs, here are some of the top schools in the state that offer teaching programs:

Arizona State University

Arizona State University’s Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College offers undergraduate, certificate, and graduate teaching programs. They have many options for specializations for all degree levels, as well as the option to choose a teaching minor course. Their graduate degrees in teaching include MEd, MA, and a PhD in education.

Program Length: Four Years (undergraduate); Two to Five Years (graduate)
Tracks/concentrations: elementary education, special education, applied science, physical education, and more.
Cost per credit: $452 (undergraduate); $825 (graduate).
Required Credits to Graduate: 120 (undergraduate); at least 30 (graduate).
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

University of Arizona

The University of Arizona is currently offering a traditional teaching certificate, M.Ed. that can be taken as an accelerated program. This course is ideal for educators who already have an undergraduate degree in childhood development and want to obtain a secondary teaching certificate. Graduates from this program can then work as middle school or high school teachers.

Program Length: One to Two Years
Tracks/concentrations: N/A
Cost per credit: $600
Required Credits to Graduate: 36
Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission

University of Phoenix

The University of Phoenix’s College of Education offers online bachelor’s education degrees with options to specialize in early childhood education or elementary education. Their program includes instructional practice, ethical practice, and learner development. UP also has courses on innovation and professionalism for aspiring educators to develop.

Program Length: Four Years
Tracks/concentrations: early childhood education and elementary education
Cost per credit: $398
Required Credits to Graduate: 120
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

Grand Canyon University

GCU’s College of Education offers a teaching program that combines educational knowledge with a Christian worldview. They offer both on-campus and online graduate and undergraduate degrees in education. GCU also has several options for specializations for both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in education.

Program Length: Four Years (undergraduate); Two Years (graduate)
Tracks/concentrations: early childhood education, educational studies, special education, and higher education student affairs
Cost per credit: $455 (undergraduate); $590 (graduate)
Required Credits to Graduate: 120 (undergraduate); 32 (graduate).
Accreditation: Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation

Presscott College

Presscott College offers a number of degrees and certificates in education, including a bachelor of arts in education, MAs in education, and post-baccalaureate certifications in various specializations. They also have an accelerated pathway for educators who are interested in preparing for professional practice.

Program Length: Four Years (undergraduate); Two Years (graduate)
Tracks/concentrations: early childhood education, elementary education, school counseling, special education, and more
Cost per credit: $1,415 (undergraduate), $512 (online undergraduate), $598 (graduate).
Required Credits to Graduate: 120 (undergraduate); 36 (graduate).
Accreditation: Association for Experiential Education

How can I transition to online teaching in Arizona?

Online teaching offers a flexible and innovative avenue for educators to reach broader student populations. Arizona’s digital learning platforms and certification programs equip teachers with the skills necessary to design engaging virtual classrooms and master digital instruction methods. Focusing on enhancing digital literacy and virtual classroom management techniques is essential for a smooth career transition. Qualified educators can benefit from specialized professional development that targets online pedagogy and technology integration. For strategic guidance on entering this evolving educational field, review our article on how to become a teacher online in Arizona.

How do teacher certification requirements affect career advancement in Arizona?

Rigorous teacher certification criteria serve as a cornerstone for professional credibility and long-term career progression in Arizona. By meeting these requirements, educators not only affirm their commitment to high instructional standards but also unlock enhanced opportunities for leadership roles and specialized instructional positions. Keeping abreast of evolving standards is essential; for an in‐depth guide on navigating these pathways, please review our guide on the teacher certification requirements in Arizona.

How do I obtain a substitute teaching license in Arizona?

The criteria for securing a substitute teaching license in Arizona require compliance with state-specific procedures, including background verification, fingerprinting, and meeting academic prerequisites. Applicants typically must provide evidence of completed secondary or post-secondary education and undergo required professional development modules. For current eligibility standards and detailed application procedures, please review our article detailing the Arizona substitute teacher requirements.

Can speech therapy certification expand my career opportunities in Arizona?

Integrating speech therapy into your educational career can address diverse communication needs, especially within special education settings. Educators who obtain certification in speech-language pathology can provide specialized support for students with language and speech challenges. This interdisciplinary skill set not only enriches classroom practice but also creates additional career pathways. For detailed steps and requirements, explore our guide on how to be a speech therapist in Arizona.

How can I specialize in art education in Arizona?

Aspiring art educators in Arizona can enhance their teaching portfolios and instructional techniques by obtaining specialized training in art education, developing a strong body of visual work, and pursuing professional certification tailored for creative subjects. They should review program-specific admission requirements, participate in workshops focusing on modern art pedagogy, and engage in mentorship opportunities within local art communities. For additional details on pathways and certification processes, refer to how to become an art teacher in Arizona.

What are the essential requirements for kindergarten teachers in Arizona?

Aspiring kindergarten teachers must meet specialized certification criteria, focusing on early childhood development, classroom management tailored to young learners, and instructional strategies that accommodate diverse developmental needs. Evaluating curriculum standards and engaging in targeted professional development are key to ensuring readiness for dynamic learning environments at the kindergarten level. For a comprehensive overview of necessary credentials and step-by-step guidance, refer to kindergarten teacher requirements in Arizona.

What are the special requirements for private school teachers in Arizona?

Private schools in Arizona often implement distinct credentialing processes and evaluative criteria that differ from public institutions. These schools may emphasize specialized teaching philosophies, adaptable certification protocols, and additional experience in alternative educational settings. Evaluating these criteria helps ensure that candidates align with institutional values and pedagogical expectations. For tailored guidance on admission protocols and comprehensive overview of the private school teacher requirements in Arizona, consult the linked resource.

Should I become a teacher in Arizona?

The field of education is continuously evolving, and teachers have the opportunity to develop professionally as well as to shape young minds and inspire students to achieve their goals. Some of the teacher in Arizona jobs are both rewarding and challenging professions that play pivotal roles in the education and development of students.

Becoming a teacher in Arizona can be daunting since the pay is slightly lower considering the cost of living in the state. However, there are always options for specializations, such as an online child development degree, in the field of education that can open up opportunities for higher salaries. Additionally, the state is continuously putting efforts into planning overall higher wages for educators.

Key Insights

Diverse Pathways: Arizona offers various pathways to becoming a teacher, including traditional bachelor's degree programs, post-baccalaureate programs, and alternative certification programs.
Slightly Lower Salaries: Teachers in Arizona earn an average of $56,056, which is slightly lower compared to some other states. Efforts are being made to increase teacher salaries and support staff wages.
Higher Cost of Living: The cost of living in Arizona is six percent higher than the national average, which impacts the overall compensation of teachers in the state.
High Demand for Teachers: There is a significant shortage of educators in Arizona, with nearly 30% of teacher vacancies as of September 2023. This high demand can lead to more opportunities for new teachers.
Comprehensive Licensure Requirements: Becoming a teacher in Arizona involves completing a bachelor's degree, a teacher preparation program, and passing specific certification exams, including the Arizona Educator Proficiency Assessment and the National Evaluation Series.
Renewal Process: Teachers need to complete 180 hours of professional development or 12 credit hours of education courses to renew their teaching licenses every six years. Provisional certificates must be converted to standard certificates within two years of expiration.
Top Teaching Programs: Notable institutions offering top teaching programs in Arizona include Arizona State University, University of Arizona, University of Phoenix, Grand Canyon University, and Prescott College.

FAQ

1. What are the educational requirements to become a teacher in Arizona?

To become a teacher in Arizona, you need to have a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, complete a state-approved teacher preparation program, and pass the Arizona Educator Proficiency Assessment and the National Evaluation Series exams.

2. How can I become a teacher in Arizona without a teaching degree?

You can become a teacher in Arizona without a teaching degree by obtaining a Career and Technical Education (CTE) certification, which allows you to teach technical education courses such as agriculture, consumer sciences, or marketing.

3. What is the average salary for teachers in Arizona?

The average salary for teachers in Arizona is $56,056, which is slightly lower compared to other states. Efforts are being made to increase teacher salaries and support staff wages.

4. What is the cost of living in Arizona compared to the national average?

The cost of living in Arizona is six percent higher than the national average, impacting the overall compensation of teachers in the state.

5. How often do I need to renew my teaching license in Arizona?

In Arizona, teaching licenses need to be renewed every six years. To renew your license, you must complete 180 hours of professional development or 12 credit hours of education courses verified by your school district.

6. What are the top teaching programs in Arizona?

Top teaching programs in Arizona are offered by Arizona State University, University of Arizona, University of Phoenix, Grand Canyon University, and Prescott College.

7. Are there alternative certification pathways for becoming a teacher in Arizona?

Yes, Arizona offers alternative certification pathways, including traditional or alternative post-baccalaureate educator preparation programs and alternative educator preparation certificate programs.

8. What is the process for converting a provisional teaching certificate to a standard certificate in Arizona?

To convert a provisional teaching certificate to a standard certificate, you must apply within two months of the expiration date, complete the Application to Convert, submit a photocopy of your fingerprint card, and verify two years of full-time teaching experience.

9. Can out-of-state teachers work in Arizona?

Yes, out-of-state teachers can work in Arizona if they meet the requirements of the Arizona Department of Education, including holding a valid teaching license from another state and passing the necessary certification exams.

10. What professional development requirements must be met for license renewal in Arizona?

For license renewal in Arizona, teachers must complete 180 hours of professional development or 12 credit hours of education courses, which must be verified by their school district.