three requirements for PA or NJ certification

1. Enroll in a teacher certification program
   Teacher candidates must complete a state-approved teacher education program at accredited college or university. Whether a baccalaureate or post-baccalaureate degree program, it will include course work and a student teaching or intern experience .
    
2. Take state examinations
   Pass the Praxis I and Praxis II assessments which includes: basic skills, general knowledge, professional knowledge and subject area knowledge. These assessments must be taken before a certificate can be issued to an applicant.
    
3. Submit application
   Complete and send all application materials documenting that all certificate requirements have been met to the state department of education. Application materials include a Criminal Background Check and a Child Abuse History Clearance.
    

Alternate routes to certification

1. PA Teacher Intern Certification Program
   The Pennsylvania Teacher Intern Certification program offers an accelerated route to the classroom. The program is specifically designed for individuals who possess a minimum of a baccalaureate degree. Currently, the program is offered in 33 approved colleges and universities in Pennsylvania. Students needing an Intern Certificate in order to fill an emergency, long-term substitute, or vacant position can apply to an Intern Certification Program and be teaching in as early as 6-9 months. For more information visit the Pennsylvania Department of Education website at www.teaching.state.pa.us/teaching.
    
2. Troops to Teachers (TTT)
   The purpose of TTT is to assist eligible military personnel to transition to a new career as public school teachers in "high-need" schools. The New Jersey TTT office has been established to provide participants with counseling and assistance regarding certification requirements, routes to state certification, and employment in New Jersey school districts. For more information, please visit www.proudtoserveagain.com, call 1-800-680-0884 or e-mail tttnj@doe.state. nj.us.edu
    
3. Alternate Route Certification
   The alternate route to certification provides an opportunity for applicants who have not completed teacher preparation in a traditional college program to participate in district training programs for licensure. Interested applicants should apply through the county office of education of the county in which they live or work.