Teaching Math in Oklahoma

Interested in becoming a math teacher in Oklahoma? Oklahoma offers a variety of pathways to certification, including a reciprocal licensing option for experienced out-of-state teachers and an alternative licensing route for college graduates with degree in subjects other than education. If you’re worried about the costs of training and education, then check out some of the available scholarship and loan forgiveness programs.

Math Teacher Certification in Oklahoma

Math Teaching Qualifications

In order to qualify for certification in Oklahoma, prospective teachers must complete a state-approved teacher education program at a college or university, pass all three state mandated tests and submit to a background check.

Credentials & Exams

• Teachers in Oklahoma are required to take the following examinations in order to qualify for certification:
  • Oklahoma General Education Test (OGET)
  • The Oklahoma Subject Area Test (OSAT)
  • The Oklahoma Professional Teaching Exam (OPTE)
• Oklahoma Traditional Teaching Certificate: In order to qualify for Oklahoma’s regular teaching license, applicants must meet the following qualifications:
  • Graduate from an accredited college or university with an approved teacher education program;
  • Complete an approved teacher preparation program;
  • Successfully complete the three required competency exams.
• Reciprocity: Oklahoma also offers a reciprocal licensure option. This route is available to qualified candidates who hold a valid certificate issued by another state or jurisdiction and meet any other requirements of the state board of education.

Alternative Certification for Math Teachers

Prospective teachers who have graduated from an accredited college or university, but who do not have a bachelor’s degree in education and have not been issued a traditional teaching certificate, are eligible to apply for one of the following alternative certification programs:

• Alternative Placement Teaching License: Individuals interested in pursuing this option are required to have a bachelor’s degree in the subject area to be taught. During the first three years of the program, candidates are expected to complete 18 credit hours of professional education courses (or 12 if the applicant has an advanced degree).
• Other Alternative Certification Routes: Oklahoma also recognizes certification from the American Board for Certification of Teacher Excellence, Teach for America and the Troops to Teacher program.