Virginia Alternative
Route to Licensure Cost
How Much Does Alternative Teacher Licensure Cost in Virginia?
Becoming a teacher in Virginia through the Alternative Route to Licensure (ARL) offers a cost-effective and flexible pathway to start a career in education. While there are associated costs such as application fees, tuition, and exam registration fees, ARL programs are significantly more affordable than a traditional teaching degree. ARL is typically just a few thousand dollars.
Virginia Teacher Licensure Fees
There are several fees associated with obtaining teacher licensure in Virginia, including those for exams, licensure levels, and ARL program-specific costs.
Exams
The state of Virginia requires teachers to pass several exams to qualify for licensure. The cost for each exam varies.
Elementary
PRAXIS II Multiple Subjects $170
This test assesses knowledge in four core subject areas: Reading and Language Arts, Mathematics, Social Studies, and Science. Each subtest must be passed individually. It is designed to measure the subject-specific content knowledge and teaching skills needed to teach at the elementary level.
Middle
Middle school teachers in Virginia are required to passthe applicable PRAXIS II Content Area Exams including:
- Middle School English Language Arts $156: assesses content knowledge and instructional strategies specific to teaching English Language Arts at the middle school level. It includes questions on literature, informational texts, writing, speaking, and listening.
- Middle School Mathematics $156: covers mathematics content and teaching methods appropriate for middle school students. Topics include arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis, along with pedagogical techniques for teaching these concepts.
- Middle School Science $156: Evaluates the candidate’s understanding of scientific principles and teaching practices. It includes questions on physical science, life science, Earth and space science, and scientific inquiry and methodology.
- Middle School Social Studies $156: tests knowledge of social studies content areas such as history, geography, and civics, as well as teaching strategies. It covers U.S. history, world history, government, economics, and geography, along with methods for teaching social studies effectively.
Secondary
Secondary school teachers must pass the specific PRAXIS II exams for their subject areas. Subject area tests can include (but are not limited to):
- Biology $130: Assesses knowledge of biological concepts and effective teaching methods. It includes questions on cell biology, genetics, evolution, ecology, and organisms, as well as teaching strategies for conveying these topics.
- Chemistry $130: Evaluates understanding of chemical principles and instructional strategies. Topics include atomic structure, chemical reactions, thermodynamics, and laboratory safety and techniques.
- Earth Science $130: Covers geological, meteorological, and astronomical concepts and teaching practices. It includes questions on Earth’s systems, history, and processes, as well as space science and environmental science.
- English $130: Tests knowledge of literature, language, and writing instruction techniques. It covers British, American, and world literature, grammar, composition, and analysis of texts.
- History & Social Studies $130: Assesses understanding of historical events, social studies content, and instructional strategies. It includes U.S. and world history, geography, political science, economics, and behavioral sciences.
- Mathematics $130: Evaluates knowledge of mathematical concepts and teaching methodologies. Topics include algebra, calculus, geometry, statistics, and discrete mathematics, along with methods for teaching these subjects.
- Physics $130: Tests understanding of physical principles and effective teaching practices. It covers mechanics, electricity and magnetism, waves and optics, and modern physics.
Cost of Alternative Route to Licensure Levels
Collegiate Professional License
Typically requires completing a state-approved teacher preparation program and passing the required licensure exams. The cost of the preparation program can range from $3,000 to $10,000, depending on the institution and program specifics
Postgraduate Professional License
Usually requires a master’s degree or higher in education. The cost of obtaining a master’s degree can range from $15,000 to $30,000 depending on the university and program.
Technical Professional License
Requires a high school diploma, specific coursework, and industry licensure. Costs include tuition for the necessary coursework and licensure exam fees, which can range from $500 to $2,000.
Provisional License
This is a one-time only VA State issued temporary license that allows candidates to begin teaching while completing the requirements for a full license. Application fees for the provisional are usually around $100, and coursework to meet the requirements cited by the Department of Education could cost several hundred dollars per credit hour toward graduate level courses needed to meet licensure requirements.
Provisional Special Education License
Priced similarly to the provisional license but specific to special education. Costs include fees for specialized coursework and exams.
Alternative Route to Licensure Program Fees
The cost of ARL programs can vary significantly. Typical program costs include enrollment or registration fees, tuition, and materials. Research the features and resources offered by an ARL to evaluate the program’s cost vs value.
iteach Alternative Route to Licensure Program Fees
The cost of ARL programs can vary significantly. For example, iteach program fees include a $99 or $250 enrollment fee, depending on your payment plan, and a total program cost of $3,050 for Virginia candidates. This fee includes access to CAEP-certified online courses, subscription to instructional video libraries, access to a premium version of Khanmigo by Khan Academy, and more.
Additional Fees
- Test preparation: Enrollment in test preparation courses can help candidates pass the required exams. These courses can range from free online resources to paid programs costing several hundred dollars. iteach offers Passage Preparation free of charge.
- Background checks & Fingerprinting: Often required for teaching positions. These typically cost around $50 to $100.
What to Consider About Alternative Route to Licensure Cost
When evaluating the cost of pursuing an Alternative Route to Licensure (ARL) in Virginia, it’s crucial to consider several financial and career-related factors. Firstly, the upfront costs include enrollment fees, tuition for required coursework, and examination fees, which can vary significantly depending on the specific program and subject area. These costs are often lower than those associated with traditional teacher preparation programs or a teaching degree, but they still represent a significant investment.
It’s important to weigh these costs against the potential benefits, such as faster entry into the teaching profession and the ability to start earning a teaching salary sooner. Beyond the upfront costs and immediate benefits, the long-term impact of becoming a licensed teacher holds a lot to consider.
Salary Growth Potential
One of the key factors to consider when evaluating the cost of an ARL program is the potential for salary growth after the program. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for elementary, middle, and high school teachers ranges from $60,000 to $62,000.
Teachers with advanced degrees or additional licenses often earn higher salaries, with some districts offering increased pay for those who take on extra responsibilities or earn advanced endorsements. Furthermore, many school districts offer salary increments based on years of experience and continuing education credits, allowing teachers to increase their earnings over time. Therefore, while the initial costs of an ARL program may be significant, the potential for long-term salary growth can make this investment worthwhile.
Career Opportunities
Another critical consideration is the career opportunities available to those who complete an ARL program. Teachers are in high demand, particularly in areas such as STEM, special education, and bilingual education. This demand can translate into better job security and more employment options.
Obtaining a teaching license through an ARL program can open doors to various roles within the education sector, including administrative positions, instructional coaching, and curriculum development. These roles often come with higher salaries and increased responsibilities. The flexibility and accessibility of ARL programs can therefore provide a pathway to a rewarding and stable career in education.
Final Thoughts
Pursuing an Alternative Route to Licensure (ARL) in Virginia is a significant decision that involves careful consideration of costs and potential benefits. While there are upfront expenses, including program fees, exams, and licensure costs, the ARL pathway often proves more affordable and flexible than traditional teaching degree programs.
For those passionate about education and looking for a career change or an efficient path into teaching, iteach’s Alternative Route to Licensure can be a smart and fulfilling choice.