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Become a Teacher in New York State

SUNY has the programs you need to become a certified K-12 teacher in New York State. Our undergraduate and graduate education programs are approved for initial and professional certification, ensuring you meet the requirements to teach in public schools. With affordable tuition and high-quality programs, SUNY is the smart choice for future educators.

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Paths to Becoming a Teacher in New York:

I'm starting college for the first time, or have some college credits (no degree):

Here's what you need to do:

  1. 1) Pursue a bachelor's degree in education
  2. 2) Complete student teaching
  3. 3) Pass certification exams

Learn more

I’m thinking about a career change to teaching:

Here's what you need to do:

  1. 1) Enroll in a master's-level teacher preparation program OR a Transitional B Alternative Certification Program to begin teaching while earning your credentials.
  2. 2) Pass Certification Requirements
  3. 3) Earn Your Professional Certification

Learn more

Request Information

A male and female teacher talk in elementary school hallway.

Teachers are in-demand in New York

New York State will need 180,000 new teachers in the next 10 years, primarily in the fields of:

  • Bilingual Education: (All Grades)
  • Career and Technical Education: (Grades 7-12)
  • English: (Grades 7-12)
  • Health Science: (All Grades)
  • Literacy: (All Grades)
  • Science: (Grades 7-12)
  • Social Studies: (Grades 7-12)
  • Special Education: (Grades 5-12)
  • Disabled Students

Teachers are in-demand in New York

New York State has a need for 180,000 new teachers in the next 10 years, primarily in the fields of:

  • Bilingual Education: (All Grades)
  • Career and Technical Education: (Grades 7-12)
  • English: (Grades 7-12)
  • Health Science: (All Grades)
  • Literacy: (All Grades)
  • Science: (Grades 7-12)
  • Social Studies: (Grades 7-12)
  • Special Education: (Grades 5-12)
  • Disabled Students

Compare the costs

SUNY offers financial aid, scholarships, and support on top of low tuition to help make your degree affordable. About 60% of SUNY undergrads receive financial aid to help pay for college.

Average Undergraduate Tuition & Fees

(Enrollment Weighted)

Out of state public 4 year college tuition $29150
Private college tuition $41540
SUNY Community College unweighted tuition $5,699
SUNY 4-year college tuition $9413

Learn more or attend a free financial aid workshop

How much do teachers make in NY?

New York ranks number 11 in the nation for average teacher pay at $49,315.
New York ranks number 2 in the nation for average teacher pay at $92,696.

Let’s look at the benefits too

Public teachers in New York have a generous benefits package that includes:

  • ✔ Health insurance with coverage for medical, dental, and vision
  • ✔ Vacation time, breaks, and holidays
  • ✔ Access to federal and state loan forgiveness programs
  • ✔ Membership to the New York State Teachers’ Retirement System
  • ✔ Union membership

Educator Pay in America - (National Education Association, NEA)

Scholarships and Aid For Students Pursuing Education

Financial assistance is available from a number of local, regional, and national sources to cover a range of needs. Learn about these financial aid opportunities that can help you be a teacher in New York.

 

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