Alternative Certification Programs

Become a certified educator or campus leader through UTA’s Alternative Certification Programs (ACP). Our flexible, high-quality programs prepare professionals with real-world experience to transition into impactful careers in Texas schools.
Adult professional studying on a laptop while transitioning into an education career

What Are Alternative Certification Programs?

UTA’s Alternative Certification Programs offer accelerated, TEA-approved pathways for individuals who already hold advanced education and professional experience but seek to enter the field of education or educational leadership without completing a traditional educator preparation program.

Our ACP options include:

  1. Principal Certification
  2. Program Highlights
  3. Teacher Certification

Principal Certification (Master’s Degree Required)

For experienced professionals who already hold a master’s degree and seek certification to become a campus administrator, such as an assistant principal or principal.

ACP-Principal

Program Highlights

For Both Certification Routes : - TEA-approved, high-quality preparation - Flexible online course options designed for working professionals - Field-based experience with expert coaching and support - Access to UTA faculty with deep expertise in teaching and school leadership -...

Teacher Certification (Bachelor’s Degree Required)

For individuals who hold at least a bachelor’s degree and want to become certified classroom teachers in a Texas public or charter school.

ACP-Teacher

Program Pathways

Principal Certification Pathway

Designed for aspiring campus leaders ready to take on administrative roles.

Requirements

  • Master’s degree from an accredited institution
  • Teaching experience as required by TEA
  • Completion of principal preparation modules
  • Passing two certification exams (TExES Principal as Instructional Leader exam & the Performance Assessment for School Leaders)
  • Field-based leadership practicum

What You’ll Learn

  • Instructional leadership and school improvement
  • Data-driven decision making
  • Campus operations and legal/ethical leadership
  • Strategies for supporting teachers and students

Teacher Certification Pathway

Ideal for individuals transitioning into the teaching profession.

Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
  • Minimum cumulative 2.5 GPA, or 2.5 GPA in the last 60 hours of coursework
  • Completion of ACP modules
  • Passing required TExES exams
  • Fulfillment of clinical teaching or internship requirements

What You’ll Learn

  • Foundations of teaching and learning
  • Classroom management
  • Curriculum planning and assessment
  • Strategies for student engagement and success

Which Path Is Right for You?

Your Goal Required Degree Recommended Program
Become a classroom teacher Bachelor’s Teacher Certification
Become a campus administrator Master’s Principal Certification
image of 4 adults discussing on a campus walkway

Why Choose UTA for Teacher or Principal Certification?

  • Longstanding reputation for excellence in educator preparation
  • Strong partnerships with school districts across Texas
  • Supportive mentors and field supervisors
  • Programs designed for real-world application
  • Flexible, accessible coursework for busy professionals

UTA offers two distinct certification routes:

Both routes provide rigorous training, expert support, and pathways aligned with Texas Education Agency (TEA) standards.

Which Path Is Right for You?