Certification is the process of getting a license to be a teacher in the public schools of a state. It is also the professional term used to refer to the license itself. When a student completes a teacher education program, the student should apply for certification through CCSU [if the student completed an approved program here].

Students holding a certification who seek an additional license to teach another area, field, or grade level, are seeking a cross endorsement to their initial certification. Advising and approval of courses to meet cross endorsement requirements can only come from a state evaluator at the Connecticut State Department of Education, Bureau of Certification and Professional Development. Their phone number is (860) 566-5201. They should call after 1:00 p.m. to speak with an evaluator.

Connecticut certification: Individuals who wish to become teachers in Connecticut's public schools are required by state law to be licensed [certificated] by the State of Connecticut prior to employment. Students who complete a teacher education program at CCSU and complete a certification application may be recommended by the University's certification officer for certification, but the final decision is that of the State Department of Education, Bureau of Certification and Professional Development.

All graduates and post-graduate certification completers should definitely obtain their Connecticut certification as quickly as possible. Since certification rules change constantly, if a student delays too long, he/she may no longer be eligible for Connecticut certification!

Out of State Certification: Students who wish to teach out-of-state must obtain certification from the state or regional entity in which they want to teach. State certification regulations differ from state to state. Students can get information from the state or dependency to which they are going. Addresses and phone numbers can be obtained from Career Planning in Willard Hall.

Write or call that certification bureau or department for out-of-state certification requirements and an application. Part of that application may need to be completed by the Dean's office. If not, the state will contact CCSU directly. To make out of state certification go smoothly, please do obtain a Connecticut Teaching Certification as soon as you are eligible! It may affect the requirements that you will have to meet in other states!

If you have further questions please contact: 

Dr. Anne Pautz
Assistant Dean
[PAUTZA@CCSU.EDU]
tel: 860.832.2100