Kentucky Alternative Teacher Certification
Put Your Experience to Work.
Start Your Teaching Journey at WKU Today!
You have the degree. We have the pathway to a more fulfilling career. WKU offers Kentucky’s most valuable alternative teacher certification options, from an accelerated route to the classroom to a full master's degree for long-term salary growth.
Your Experience is Your Greatest Asset.
The Proficiency Evaluation Route is WKU's intelligent pathway for professionals. We designed this route to formally recognize and value your background, creating a personalized and efficient plan that respects your career and launches your future in the classroom.
Why Choose Our Program?
Your Career is Valued
We formally credit your professional experience. The process starts with a digital portfolio where you showcase your skills, validating the career you've already built.
A Plan Built For You
After reviewing your portfolio, our faculty committee creates a personalized Educator Learning Plan (ELP) that outlines only the specific coursework you need to succeed.
An Accelerated Timeline
Your personalized ELP creates an efficient, accelerated path to the classroom. We build upon the skills you already possess, tailoring the timeline to your experience.
Start Teaching Sooner
Upon approval of your ELP, you can receive a provisional certificate. This allows you to start teaching with full pay while you complete your program requirements.
Affordable Path with Scholarship Opportunities
Worried about costs? WKU offers exclusive tuition discounts for Kentucky teachers, plus access to state-funded scholarships like the KY Traineeship Program. We’ll help you navigate financial aid options to keep your investment affordable.
Increase Your Earning Potential
Earn a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT)
Ready for a change AND a salary boost? WKU's Alternative Route to Certification program offers a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) degree, designed for professionals and recent graduates with strong subject-matter expertise. Earn your Rank II certification and significantly increase your earning potential.
- 36-hour program: Fast track to your new career.
- Target high-need areas: Specialize in Math, Science, Foreign Language, Special Education, and more.
- Rank II Certification: Unlock a higher salary bracket (minimum $60,596 for 12 month or $52,873 for 10.5 month contracts*)
Learn More About the MAT Program
*Based on 2024 OCTE Salary Schedule via the Kentucky Department of Education.
THE OFFICE OF PROFESSIONAL EDUCATOR SERVICES
Gary A. Ransdell Hall, Office 1092
1906 College Heights Blvd. #11030,
Bowling Green, KY 42101-1030
Services & Programs
- Field Experience
- Student Teaching
- Teacher Certification
- Proficiency Evaluation
- Masters of Arts in Teaching
- International Student Teaching/Cross-Cultural Initiatives
Praxis
Some of the links on this page may require additional software to view.