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Becoming a teacher in Alberta

Aug 15, 2024

Becoming a teacher is more than just a career choice, it's a commitment to shaping the future.

We all remember that teacher who left a lasting impression— The one whose passion for biology was infectious; who encouraged you to join the improv team; who never gave up on you; or who supported you through a rough patch. The teacher who helped shape the person you are today. Teachers are the architects of tomorrow, guiding young minds, nurturing potential, and inspiring the leaders, innovators, and citizens of the next generation. If you're passionate about making a difference, embarking on the journey to become a teacher is one of the most rewarding paths you can take. The track to becoming a teacher is nuanced across Canada so today we will explore the specific requirements to become a teacher in Alberta.

Quick Facts:

- Complete a minimum 4 years of university education inclusive of a pre-service teacher preparation program

- Create a TWINS account

- Apply for Interim Professional Certification

- After 2 years of experience, apply for Permanent Professional Certification

Requirements for becoming a school teacher in Alberta

The requirements for becoming a teacher in Canada vary provincially. To be eligible for a teaching job in Alberta, you need an Alberta teaching certificate issued by Alberta Education. If you already hold a teaching certification for another province, territory, or country, you must still apply for an Alberta teaching certificate.

Step 1: Education

Alberta

All teachers in Alberta must complete at least 4 years of university education, including a recognized degree and pre-service teacher preparation program. The teacher preparation program must lead to teacher certification in the jurisdiction where the program was completed. There are a number of approved institutions in Alberta.

Canada

Teachers who studied outside Alberta but within Canada’s borders and hold a valid teaching certificate are eligible for certification in Alberta under the Canadian Free Trade Agreement. No additional training or examinations are required.

International

For internationally trained teachers, your academic credentials will be assessed on a course-by-course basis. If the Ministry of Education deems your program unacceptable, you may be required to take additional courses to qualify for Interim Professional Certification (more on this below).

Step 2: Apply for Interim Professional Certification

Once you’ve completed your education, you will apply for Interim Professional Certification so that Alberta Education can assess your educational and professional qualifications. This certification allows you to teach in an Alberta-accredited school and is valid for 3 years.

To apply, you must first create a Teacher Workforce Information System (TWINS) account, then complete your application, and pay the application fees. Your application requires supporting documents such as identity documents, a criminal record check, and official transcripts as outlined in the checklist on TWINS. Any documents in a language other than English or French must be translated.

Your application can take up to a few weeks (longer for internationally trained applicants) to be processed so budget enough time for this.

*Note: Alberta applicants who receive an employment offer before graduation are eligible for a 90-day temporary teaching authority. Applications for the temporary teaching authority must be submitted at least 8 weeks before graduation.

If your application meets the requirements, you will be issued Interim Professional Certification which allows you to teach in an Alberta accredited school and is valid for 3 years.

Step 3: Qualify for permanent Professional Certification

When you meet all the requirements for Permanent Professional Certification, your school authority must recommend you for a permanent certificate. Teachers cannot independently apply for Permanent Professional Certification; they must be recommended by their employing school authority. A school authority is required to recommend any teacher working for them who successfully meets the requirements set out in the Certification of Teachers and Teacher Leaders Regulation. For up to date information on these requirements, please visit the Government of Alberta website.

Once you obtain a Permanent Professional Certification, it will not expire, even if you leave the profession.

Conclusion

The path to becoming a teacher in Alberta is the first step of a fulfilling career in education. By meeting the necessary requirements, you’re not only investing in your own professional future but also in the future of the countless students who will benefit from your passion and guidance.