How to Become a Teacher Online in Indiana: Requirements & Certification for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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Indiana faces a growing shortage of qualified teachers, with over 4,000 vacancies reported statewide in recent years. This gap challenges student success and demands innovative solutions.

Online teaching offers a flexible, scalable path to address this crisis while tapping into Indiana’s expanding digital education market, projected to grow by 8% annually.

This article, crafted by career planning experts, outlines the precise certification requirements and practical steps to launch a successful online teaching career in Indiana in 2025, providing clarity amid complexity.

Key Things to Know About Becoming a Teacher Online in Indiana

• Indiana requires a valid teaching license to teach online in public schools, emphasizing the need for formal certification.
• Online teaching demands strong tech skills; 85% of Indiana districts now integrate digital platforms in classrooms.
• Specialized endorsements in subjects like STEM or ESL increase hiring chances for online educators.
• Continuing education credits are crucial to maintain licensure and stay updated on virtual teaching methods.
• Competitive salaries average around $55,000, with online roles offering flexible schedules but requiring self-discipline.

Table of Contents

1. What are the minimum educational requirements to become an online teacher in Indiana?
2. What skills are essential for success as a teacher online?
3. What is the average salary of online teachers in Indiana?
4. How do online teacher preparation programs and student teaching experiences work in Indiana?
5. What are the licensing and certification requirements for online teachers in Indiana?
6. What is the job outlook for online teachers in Indiana?
7. What are the main challenges that online teachers face in Indiana?
8. What are the career advancement opportunities for online teachers in Indiana?
9. What technology resources and support systems are available for online teachers in Indiana?
10. Are there continuing education or license renewal requirements for online teachers in Indiana?
11. Can you become an online teacher without a traditional education degree in Indiana?
12. What are the current trends in online teaching and education in Indiana?
13. What steps should you take to start your online teaching career in Indiana?
14. Other Things You Should Know About Becoming a Teacher Online in Indiana

What are the minimum educational requirements to become an online teacher in Indiana?

Meeting the minimum education requirements for teachers in Indiana requires more than just a degree; it demands a full commitment to rigorous preparation. The pathway underscores that online teaching is held to the same high standards as traditional classrooms, challenging any notion that remote instruction requires less qualification. Below are the education requirements:

• Bachelor’s Degree: Obtained before licensure; does not need to be education-focused but requires completion of an approved alternative teacher preparation program if not.
• Teacher Preparation Program: Includes essential pedagogy, classroom management, and subject-specific training, combined with mandatory student teaching placement—even for online teaching candidates.
• Certification Exams: Must pass the Core Academic Skills Assessment (CASA), Developmental/Pedagogical Exam, and CORE Content Exam to demonstrate both foundational and specialized teaching knowledge.
• Additional Certifications: CPR/AED/Heimlich certification and suicide prevention training, usually integrated within the preparation program, are required to ensure teacher readiness for emergency and mental health situations.
• Licensing Process: Initial Practitioner License for two years followed by completion of the Indiana Mentoring and Assessment Program (IMAP), a mentored internship critical for advancing licensure.

For those exploring advanced qualifications, resources such as the ranking of the best 1 year online masters in education programs can provide guidance on further educational pursuits aligned with Indiana’s standards.

What skills are essential for success as a teacher online?

To thrive as an online teacher in Indiana, you’ll need a well-rounded skill set that goes beyond subject knowledge and traditional classroom methods. The following key skills help educators create engaging, effective virtual learning environments while staying adaptable in this fast-changing field.

• Essential Skills for Online Teaching Success in Indiana: Mastering online teaching in Indiana demands more than traditional classroom expertise; it requires embracing digital fluency and adaptive strategies that challenge conventional pedagogy.
• Digital Literacy and Technical Mastery: Success hinges on navigating learning management systems, video conferencing, and collaboration tools with confidence. This technical fluency is not ancillary but foundational, enabling seamless content delivery and interactive engagement in virtual classrooms.
• Instructional Design and Content Adaptation: Teachers must rethink curriculum through the lens of accessibility and engagement, crafting materials that resonate across diverse learning styles. This transformation requires creative application of instructional design principles rather than mere content transfer.
• Communication and Relationship Building: Without physical presence, intentional and data-informed communication strategies become vital to build trust and motivate students. Effective online educators leverage focused conferencing and interactive feedback to maintain strong connections.
• Classroom Management and Engagement: Virtual classrooms demand clear procedures and proactive monitoring of participation to foster a productive learning environment. Mastery in this area means cultivating presence and accountability through digital tools and community norms.
• Assessment and Data-Driven Instruction: Online teachers must adeptly use digital assessments to inform instruction and support student growth. Interpreting data within this context shifts teaching from intuition to evidence-based practice.
• Adaptability and Lifelong Learning: The rapid evolution of online education requires educators to continuously update skills and embrace new strategies, reflecting an enduring commitment to professional growth amid change.

What is the average salary of online teachers in Indiana?

The average online teacher salary Indiana shows a wide range, reflecting differences in experience, employer, and subject specialization. Typical K-12 online teachers earn around $44,333 annually, translating to about $21.31 per hour. However, at established providers like Indiana Online, salaries rise closer to $50,664 per year, or roughly $24 hourly. This variation highlights how institutional affiliation and specialization matter greatly in this field.

Exploring online teaching pay rates in Indiana reveals a salary spectrum from roughly $20,000 up to $66,000 annually, with some outliers reported as high as $270,000 in niche or administrative roles. Yet, these extremes are exceptions rather than the norm.

The median salary residing near $45,000 challenges assumptions about teaching wages, especially given Indiana's ranking as last in the nation for online teacher pay. This suggests that economic realities and educational funding in Indiana impose significant limits on wage growth despite the rising demand for virtual educators.

When placed in a national context, Indiana’s online teacher mean annual wage fall within the U.S. median salary, which hovers between $50,000 and $60,000, as shown in the image below. For those curious about pathways to enhance their qualifications, exploring what are the best online bachelors degrees in special education may provide valuable insights.

How do online teacher preparation programs and student teaching experiences work in Indiana?

Indiana’s approach to online teacher preparation uniquely blends flexibility with uncompromising standards, ensuring candidates receive both theoretical knowledge and authentic classroom experience.

• Online Coursework with Local Placements: Programs like Purdue’s and Ball State’s offer primarily online coursework combined with mandatory, supervised student teaching placements within Indiana schools to meet state licensure requirements.
• Rigorous Full-Time Student Teaching: The student teaching component is rigorous, requiring a 16-week, full-time commitment or an equivalent residency, ensuring prolonged, hands-on engagement with K-12 students.
• Flexible Internship for Experienced Teachers: Purdue’s model allows experienced teachers to complete their internship within their current employment, maintaining high standards while accommodating working professionals.
• Accelerated Pathways with iteach Indiana: iteach Indiana accelerates the timeline, enabling candidates to begin teaching full-time in as little as eight weeks, but still mandates a two-semester supervised teaching residency for practical training.
• Approved School Supervision Standards: All student teaching experiences must occur in approved public or accredited non-public schools under dual supervision from both the school and the university or program, reinforcing quality and compliance.
• Emphasis on Authentic Classroom Experience: These in-person requirements distinguish Indiana’s programs from other states that may permit more virtual or simulated fieldwork, emphasizing authentic classroom immersion as non-negotiable for effective teacher preparation.

What are the licensing and certification requirements for online teachers in Indiana?

Online teachers in Indiana must meet specific criteria to obtain licensure, reflecting the state's commitment to maintaining high educational standards. These requirements ensure that online teaching aligns with the rigor expected in traditional classroom settings.

• State licensing and certification requirements: Educators must hold a valid Indiana teaching license suitable for their grade and subject, as there is no separate online teaching license.
• Licensing process and exams: Indiana uses a tiered system—Initial Practitioner, Proficient Practitioner, and Accomplished Practitioner—with mandatory content exams like Praxis or REPA to verify subject expertise.
• Mandatory training: Teachers must complete CPR, AED, Heimlich maneuver, and suicide prevention training, offered by organizations such as the Jason Foundation or Purdue University.
• Background checks: State and federal background checks require digital fingerprints submitted through the Indiana Electronic Fingerprinting Network before licensure application.
• Application submission: Candidates apply online via the Licensing Verification and Information System (LVIS), uploading documents, paying fees, and tracking progress digitally.
• Continuing education: Renewal and advancement require professional development through programs like IMAP or a Professional Growth Plan, consistent for both online and classroom teachers.

Contrary to assumptions that online teaching might demand different credentials, Indiana’s approach challenges this notion by requiring the same rigorous standards for online instructors. Prospective educators interested in pathways can explore the most affordable elementary education online program to begin their journey.

What is the job outlook for online teachers in Indiana?

The job outlook for online teachers in Indiana reflects a tension between opportunity and limitation. While the state offers openings due to teacher shortages, the average pay remains significantly lower than the national norm—Indiana ranks last in hourly online teaching wages. This disparity challenges the assumption that online teaching automatically provides competitive compensation everywhere.

Nationally, postsecondary online teaching is expected to grow by 12%, signaling robust demand, yet Indiana’s smaller, more cautious market tempers this enthusiasm. The rigorous qualifications required by major providers in Indiana further narrow the field, favoring experienced educators but potentially excluding newcomers eager to enter the profession.

Success may depend less on the quantity of opportunities and more on quality and adaptability within this evolving landscape. To put this into perspective, take a look at the image below showing the number of teachers employed in Indiana, which currently hovers above 1,200.

What are the main challenges that online teachers face in Indiana?

Online teachers in Indiana navigate a web of persistent challenges that test their adaptability, resilience, and professional identity.

• Teacher Shortages and Subject Overload: Teacher shortages create intense pressure, especially in STEM, special education, and Career and Technical Education, forcing educators to stretch across multiple subjects with limited support.
• Insufficient Training for Digital Tools and Courseware: Mastering digital tools and virtual classroom management demands a skill set rarely covered in traditional teacher preparation—and as the chart below shows, the added challenge of implementing Courseware often comes without sufficient training or clear guidance.
• Funding Instability and Policy Uncertainty: Funding instability and shifting policy priorities breed uncertainty, compromising job security and limiting investments in technology or professional development.
• Limited Subject Experts and Curriculum Gaps: Developing comprehensive curriculum pathways is hindered by a scarcity of subject matter experts, narrowing student options and increasing teachers’ workload.
• Blurring Work-Life Boundaries and Isolation: Work-life boundaries blur as flexible schedules morph into extended hours, and professional isolation erodes mentorship and collaboration opportunities.
• Increased Accountability and Student Engagement Challenges: Heightened accountability pressures amid fluctuating student engagement challenge teachers to prove their effectiveness in less tangible ways.

One online teacher from Indiana, a graduate of a local university, reflected on these realities, explaining that it’s not just about delivering content but constantly reinventing how to connect with students who often feel invisible behind screens. He described the emotional toll of juggling multiple subjects due to shortages and the tension between meeting accountability demands and supporting students who struggle to stay engaged.

Despite these hurdles, he found purpose in adapting and learning new digital strategies, noting that while the work is demanding and personal time can feel elusive, knowing he can impact a student’s path keeps him going—capturing the complex balance between professional passion and systemic constraints for Indiana’s online teachers.

For those considering how much is a masters in library science, understanding these dynamics is an essential part of preparing for a meaningful career in education.

What are the career advancement opportunities for online teachers in Indiana?

Online teachers in Indiana can advance their careers by exploring specialized roles such as curriculum development, digital instructional design, and leadership positions within virtual academies. These opportunities not only bolster professional expertise but also position educators for mentorship roles and participation in strategic initiatives that define digital learning environments. Focused certifications and tailored professional programs further enhance competencies in emerging educational technologies and innovative pedagogy. Educators interested in diversifying their expertise can examine our article on how to become a kindergarten teacher in Indiana to broaden their skillset and explore early education leadership paths.

What technology resources and support systems are available for online teachers in Indiana?

Indiana online educators can leverage a comprehensive suite of technology resources and support systems to enhance instructional delivery and student engagement. Many institutions provide dedicated IT helpdesks, training modules for advanced learning management systems, and access to digital tools that streamline class management. Professional networks and online communities also offer peer-driven insights into emerging software trends, enabling teachers to optimize virtual classroom environments. Additionally, specialized resources guide educators on efficiently balancing certification costs—check out the cheapest way to get a teaching credential in Indiana to explore cost-effective options that complement technological proficiency.

Are there continuing education or license renewal requirements for online teachers in Indiana?

Continuing education for online teachers in Indiana is not a separate track but a shared standard with traditional educators. The Indiana Department of Education emphasizes maintaining pedagogical expertise through options like six semester hours of accredited coursework or earning 90 Professional Growth Plan points. These points stem from activities such as workshops or curriculum development, ensuring teachers stay dynamic and responsive to educational shifts.

License renewal is a rigorous but flexible process. Whether you hold a Practitioner or Proficient Practitioner License, renewal periods range from five to ten years. The state’s Licensing Verification and Information System (LVIS) streamlines application submissions, demanding documented proof of professional development. This approach challenges the myth that online teaching requires lesser credentials or ongoing training.

For those navigating the continuing education requirements for Indiana online teachers, leveraging tailored Professional Growth Plans that focus on digital pedagogy or virtual classroom management is essential. Pursuing nationally recognized credentials like NBPTS certification further validates your instructional skills. Exploring the cost of getting online doctorate degree in education can also be a strategic investment in long-term career growth.

Can you become an online teacher without a traditional education degree in Indiana?

Becoming an online teacher in Indiana without a traditional education degree is entirely feasible, but it demands navigating state certification rules that prioritize licensure over formal education background. Indiana law mandates a valid teaching license for all K-12 public educators, including those teaching online. This means that holding a bachelor’s degree is non-negotiable, yet the degree itself doesn’t have to be in education.

Alternative pathways, such as the Transition to Teaching (T2T) programs, specifically cater to career changers with degrees in other fields. These programs emphasize practical preparation through:

• 18 credit hours covering pedagogy, multicultural education, and subject-specific methods
• A supervised teaching internship, often 16 weeks of full-time student teaching
• Passing required state exams
• Training in CPR/AED/Heimlich and suicide prevention techniques

Many T2T programs offer online delivery, providing flexibility that challenges the notion that traditional education degrees are the only route into teaching. Yet, licensure remains the gatekeeper. Beyond this, employers like Indiana Online insist on additional qualifications such as an Effective Online Teaching Course and demonstrated proficiency with digital platforms like Canvas.

This layered approach underscores that while the path isn’t defined by holding a traditional education degree, it is rigorous and requires deliberate commitment to pedagogical skill development, practical experience, and digital competence.

Those willing to embrace these alternative routes effectively disrupt the conventional teacher preparation model, opening doors to online teaching roles without the traditional degree but never without meeting the state’s professional standards.

What are the current trends in online teaching and education in Indiana?

Online teaching and education in Indiana are undergoing transformative shifts that challenge traditional educational models. These trends reveal a sector increasingly responsive to student needs, legislative momentum, and workforce demands.

• Significant Growth in Online Enrollment: Indiana has seen its exclusively distance education enrollment nearly double from 59,121 students in Fall 2017 to 115,362 in Fall 2021, representing 26% of total enrollment. This surge, accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, reflects a sustained appetite for flexible, remote learning, with 39% of these students being Indiana residents.
• Expansion and Diversification of Online Offerings: Indiana Online has grown exponentially from 389 students in 2005 to over 35,000 in 2023, broadening its curriculum beyond basic courses to include full-time virtual schooling, middle school programs, dual credit, Advanced Placement, and specialized tracks for English learners. This evolution embodies a commitment to personalized, accessible education that addresses diverse learner needs.
• Policy-Driven Integration of Dual Credit and College Core: The Indiana College Core initiative is reshaping high school education by enabling students to earn a full year of general education credits online at little or no cost. With legislative mandates requiring all high schools to offer or plan for the College Core by 2026-27, this policy is set to amplify online teaching demand and smooth the pathway to higher education and careers.
• Focus on Career and Technical Education (CTE) Pathways: Online secondary CTE programs increasingly align with labor market needs, offering pathways in healthcare, IT, skilled trades, and more. These programs deliver postsecondary credentials and industry certifications remotely, ensuring students gain relevant skills that meet employer expectations and support economic growth.

Together, these shifts point to clear indicators of rising demand for online teachers in Indiana, as illustrated in the chart below.

What steps should you take to start your online teaching career in Indiana?

Launching your online teaching career in Indiana requires more than just holding a valid teaching license. The evolving digital education landscape demands targeted preparation and strategic engagement with state requirements and online education providers.

Consider these crucial steps to effectively position yourself in this competitive and dynamic field:

• Pursue Specialized Online Teaching Certification: Gain specialized training in online instruction by pursuing certificates such as the Graduate Certificate in Online Teaching and Learning Practices from Indiana University, which sharpens skills in digital pedagogy and online platform mastery.
• Complete Mandatory State Trainings: Complete all state-mandated employee trainings before beginning work. For the 2024-2025 school year, Indiana requires training in areas like Sudden Cardiac Arrest, suicide prevention, bloodborne pathogens, and human trafficking awareness, ensuring teachers are prepared for vital safety and ethical responsibilities.
• Apply Strategically to Online Schools: Apply to online teaching platforms and schools within Indiana’s expanding virtual education network, including organizations like Indiana Online. Be prepared to submit detailed application materials and demonstrate your online teaching abilities through a performance-based evaluation on their Learning Management System.
• Attend Required Orientations and Onboarding: Attend all required orientations and onboarding sessions after hiring, which include new hire orientations, reviewing employee handbooks, and participating in administrative meetings to align with program expectations and best practices.

These steps highlight the importance of continuous professional development and proactive engagement with evolving requirements, challenging the notion that traditional teaching credentials alone suffice in the virtual classroom. To thrive as an online educator in Indiana, embracing new competencies and regulatory demands is essential.

What do online teachers in Indiana say about their careers?

• Completing my teaching certification through Ball State University really opened the door for me to embrace an online teaching career here in Indiana. Starting in a local school allowed me to connect deeply with students’ diverse needs, and transitioning online gave me the flexibility to innovate with digital tools tailored to Indiana’s unique educational landscape. The sense of contributing to the community’s growth while supporting young learners remotely has been truly rewarding. I feel proud knowing that I’m helping students succeed no matter where they live in the state. Jaime
• My journey began with a program at Indiana University–Purdue University Indianapolis, and moving into online education has expanded my professional horizons more than I expected. Teaching in a local school first gave me essential classroom experience, but online teaching has offered remarkable opportunities for career advancement and continuous learning. Indiana’s commitment to integrating technology in education has made this transition smoother and more impactful. It’s fulfilling to see how my work positively shapes students’ futures in both urban and rural areas. Ayesha
• Reflecting on my experience, finishing my degree at Purdue University Calumet was a turning point that prepared me for the challenges of online teaching in Indiana. Working initially in a traditional school setting helped me understand the community’s cultural fabric, which I now incorporate into my virtual lessons to better engage students. This career path has allowed me to grow personally and professionally, especially by addressing the educational disparities across the state. Sharing knowledge and fostering resilience in my students fuels my passion every day. Leon

Other Things You Should Know About Becoming a Teacher Online in Indiana

Can I specialize in a particular subject or student group as an online teacher in Indiana?

Yes, you can specialize in a particular subject or student group as an online teacher in Indiana. Many online teaching roles allow educators to focus on specific subjects such as math, science, or English. Additionally, teachers can work with distinct student populations, including special education, gifted students, or English language learners.

Specializing often requires appropriate certification or credentials in the chosen area. This focus can enhance your expertise and improve your effectiveness as an online instructor. Indiana’s education system supports diverse teaching needs, enabling online teachers to tailor their careers to their interests and strengths.

What financial assistance or loan forgiveness programs are available for online teachers in Indiana?

Online teachers in Indiana can access several financial assistance and loan forgiveness programs. The Indiana Teacher Loan Forgiveness Program offers repayment assistance for eligible educators working in high-need areas, including online teaching roles. Additionally, the federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program applies to qualified online teachers employed by public schools or nonprofit organizations.

Indiana’s 21st Century Scholars program also provides scholarships for low-income students pursuing education degrees. Candidates should verify eligibility criteria and application deadlines with relevant state and federal agencies to maximize available benefits. These programs help reduce financial burdens for educators committed to serving Indiana’s students online.

Are there teaching opportunities for international online educators in Indiana?

Yes, there are teaching opportunities for international online educators in Indiana. Many schools and educational platforms hire qualified teachers regardless of their location, provided they meet certification and legal requirements. International educators often need to verify their credentials and may require specific state certifications or endorsements to teach in Indiana.

Online teaching roles can include K-12 virtual schools, higher education, and adult learning programs. It is important for international candidates to understand Indiana’s licensing process and maintain compliance with state regulations. Networking with Indiana-based schools and using reputable online job platforms can increase chances of securing a position.

What are the requirements for teaching adult learners or in nontraditional settings in Indiana?

The requirements for teaching adult learners or in nontraditional settings in Indiana include holding a valid teaching license or a specific adult education credential. Candidates must typically complete a state-approved preparation program focused on adult education methods and pass any required assessments. Experience working with adult learners is often recommended.

Additionally, teachers should be familiar with flexible instructional strategies suited for online or nontraditional environments. Criminal background checks and continuing professional development may also be mandatory. Meeting these criteria ensures educators are prepared to address the unique needs of adult students in diverse learning contexts within Indiana.

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