Routes to Certification

ESD-U is a residency-based, flexible program that offers alternative routes to teacher certification as defined by PESB. Eligible candidates will hold a bachelor’s degree and be supported by a partnering district. Candidates are enrolled in different preparation routes, with fieldwork customized to their individual circumstances and developmental needs. ESD-U provides access to certification through the following three routes:

Route 2: For district staff with a bachelor’s degree

Individuals with baccalaureate degrees who are currently employed classified instructional staff working with the district for at least one year, and are seeking a residency teacher certificate with endorsements in a locally determined shortage area.

Route 3: For “career changers” with a bachelor’s degree

Individuals with baccalaureate degrees who are not employed in the district at the time of application or who are currently employed by a district but have been working with the district for less than one year at the time of application, and are seeking a residency teacher certificate with endorsements in a locally-determined shortage area.

Route 4: For district staff with a bachelor’s degree and a limited certificate

Individuals with baccalaureate degrees for whom the district will secure a conditional or emergency substitute certificate and employ as teacher of record while seeking a residency teacher certificate with endorsements in a locally-determined shortage area.

Entry requirements for all 3 routes

  • Bachelor’s degree
  • Meet the age, good moral character, and personal fitness requirements, including fingerprinting, a background check, and character references
  • One attempt of the statewide basic skills assessment, and one attempt of the subject matter assessment before courses begin
  • A school, district, or other learning institution must agree to provide you with appropriate access to instructional opportunities for you to complete the required field experience hours in either a paid or volunteer capacity

Find out which route is right for you!

Have you completed a bachelor's degree, or higher?

We're sorry but all routes require a bachelors degree

Do you have a teaching certificate?

You qualify to add an endorsement with ESD-U!

Are you currently working in a district for 1 year or more?

As a paraeducator, you are eligible for route 2 in the ESD-U program

You are eligible for route 3 in the ESD-U program

You are eligible for route 4 in the ESD-U program

Routes to Certification