UAB’s School of Education and Human Sciences prepares teachers to serve every region in the state of Alabama. We are eager to help you reach your goals of serving learners and joining our graduates in the field.
When you first apply to UAB, you will declare your major:
- Early Childhood (grades Preschool-3)
- Elementary (grades K-6)
- Middle School Math (grades 4-8)
- Music (Instrumental or Choral, grades Preschool-12)
- Physical Education (grades P-12)
- Secondary (Biology, Chemistry, English, General Science, General Social Studies, and Physics, grades 6-12)
The process of earning your Alabama State Department of Education teaching license starts after you’ve completed your general course curriculum required by UAB. Once you complete these requirements, you will apply to the Teacher Education Program (TEP).
Steps to Becoming a Teacher while Studying at UAB
Step 1: Take EDU 200 – Foundations of the Profession
Take EDU 200 early in your academic career. Your first field experience helps you determine if teaching is right for you. Your faculty will guide you to secure a cleared background check before you visit a P-12 school.
Step 2: Apply to the TEP
Apply for admission to TEP during your sophomore year. Meet with your academic advisor to remain on track with your coursework and required assessments (Praxis and Pearsons Foundations of Reading). Contact the Office of Student Services to apply.
Step 3: Complete Methods Course Work
You will participate in extensive field experiences in schools. Plan to be in P-12 schools for multiple hours each week during your sophomore, junior, and senior years (even during some Pre-TEP courses).
Step 4: Apply for Student Teaching Internship
During the first semester of your senior year, complete the student teaching application. Plan to work full time in a P-12 school, Monday through Friday, during your final semester. Successfully complete the edTPA assessment during your student teaching internship.
Complete the student teaching internship application opens a new website. This application must be complete by March 1, 2025.
Step 5: Apply for Certification
Complete the forms provided by the Office of Student Services to officially become licensed to teach.