To be qualified for any alternative licensure route, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree at a minimum.

The human resources team at a Local Education Agency (LEA) will be able to share what positions they have available and what pathway makes the most sense based on your academic background. Note that each LEA has different needs and positions available and their hiring needs change often. You will want to apply to multiple LEAs to ensure the best chance of gaining employment. Once you have a teaching role secured, you can be admitted into a participating Educator Preparation Program (EPP).

Click here to access the statewide TeachNC job board and see what teaching jobs are available.

Pro tip: Before applying online, we recommend that you reach out directly (via phone or email) to the HR representative of the LEA(s) you are interested in.

Shop around to find a program that is a good fit for you. The LEA HR staff will be able to assist you in determining what to look for in an EPP. After identifying your top 3-5 programs, reach out to those EPPs to learn about their requirements for admission.

FYI: Entrance requirements differ by EPP. Reach out to your top EPPs to find out their specific requirements for enrollment, like GPA minimums or specific coursework needed (for example, for some licenses you’ll be required to complete 24 hours of college coursework in your licensure area in order to be eligible to teach that subject).

Create a checklist for top program(s) to keep you on track.

FYI: there may be scholarships available for you as well. Check out our Aid Explorer page to see what options are available.

Once you’re enrolled in an EPP and employed full-time by an LEA, you’ll need to meet all other licensure requirements established by the North Carolina State Board of Education (NCSBE), including pre-service experience, NCSBE required exams, etc.

Explore programs in North Carolina for more information on licensure options.