Get Ready to Teach with an Exciting Second Career in Education

Are you intrigued by a career in education but can’t stomach the thought of four more years of college?

If you have a degree but missed out on the teacher certification, there is an easier way to get into the fast lane to a second career. The Howard University Ready to Teach Program offers accelerated learning for those who want to upgrade their college degree and become certified to teach.


All the Details You Need to Know

The Ready to Teach Program combines online courses with a three week summer institute at the Howard University campus. You also receive in-school experience and assistance from a mentor as part of the program. In only one year, you can have your teacher certification and be ready to step in the classroom.

There is one catch though. To participate, you have to commit to a three year stint at a high need school in one of the following schools or school districts:

• Clayton County, Georgia
• Chicago, Illinois
• Prince George’s County, Maryland
• Northwest Preparatory Academy Charter School in Houston, Texas
• The Howard University Public Charter School for Mathematics and Science (MS2) in Washington D.C.

In addition to the accelerating learning program, Ready to Learn participants have access to special scholarships and other financial aid. All eligible participants receive $5,000 to offset their tuition costs. You can also fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine if you qualify for other assistance programs.


Are You Eligible?

To participate in the Ready to Teach program, you must meet the following requirements:

• Possess an undergraduate degree (in any field) from an accredited institution of higher education
• Maintained a 2.7 grade point average or higher on a 4.0 scale
• Be a U.S. citizen
• Pass the Praxis I and Praxis II exams

While all are welcome to apply, the Ready to Teach Program is designed specifically to encourage recent college graduates and those looking to change careers to consider teaching. It is also hoped that the program will increase the number of ethnic minorities and males in the classroom.

If you are accepted into the program, be prepared to major in one of four specific areas. The Ready to Teach philosophy stresses the need to create competent educators in the following specializations:

• English
• Mathematics
• Science
• Special Education

With the exception of special education, your certification will allow you to teach in junior high and secondary schools serving grades 6-12. The special education certification can be used in the elementary grades as well.

To learn more or apply to participate, visit the Ready to Teach website.


Once you have that certification, stop on by EducationJobSite and put it to use. There, you’ll find jobs in both high need schools and other districts across the nation. Get a degree and then get a job!

Maryalene LaPonsie is an accomplished writer who has extensive experience reporting on education, career advancement and workforce development topics. She specializes in sales and marketing consultation as well as general copywriting services.