Nicknamed the "Sunshine State," Florida depends on tourism, agriculture, and transportation to bolster its economy, the fourth-largest in the United States. Additionally, the Florida Department of Education (FDOE) emphasizes technical training through programs like the Workforce Education Initiative and the Family Empowerment Scholarship.
Florida offers traditional and online teaching degrees and diverse educator career opportunities. Many Floridians prefer distance learning: National Center for Education Statistics data shows that nearly 20% of college students in Florida enroll in exclusively online courses. Many schools promote flexible enrollment options and accelerated completion times, both of which may reduce tuition costs. Most accredited teaching degrees in Florida include a state-required teacher training program.
Featured Online Programs
While Florida teachers require a bachelor's degree to qualify for state certification, they may pursue an alternative path to licensure. Floridians can achieve one of many possible combinations of education, exams, and experience toward obtaining a temporary or professional teaching certificate. Many teachers also work in critical shortage areas.
The following guide details how to become a teacher in Florida.
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Florida at a Glance
| Population | 21,646,155 |
|---|---|
| Per Capita Income | $31,359 |
| Full-Time Equivalent Teachers | 164,398.70 |
| Number of Public School Districts | 76 |
| Number of Public K-12 Schools | 234 |
| Number of Higher Learning Institutions | 42 |
| Climate | Average Annual Temperature: 70.7 ℉ Annual Precipitation: 54.5 inches |
| Major Sports Teams |
Top Florida Schools for Teaching
Nova Southeastern University
Saint Leo University
University of Central Florida
Florida International University
The Baptist College of Florida
The University of West Florida
Florida Gateway College
Florida State College at Jacksonville
Florida State College at Jacksonville
Northwest Florida State College
Why Go to College for Education in Florida?
Students pursuing teaching in Florida enjoy numerous online learning options. The percentage of Floridians enrolled at least partially in distance-based higher education programs (44.3%) exceeds the national figure of 34.7%, as shown below. Specifically, Florida exceeds the national data for students enrolled both exclusively and partially in online programs.
While the state-required teacher training program includes an in-person component, online programs allow students to complete their training close to home. Many Florida programs also offer in-state tuition rates, regardless of students' residency status. Learners can pursue a variety of specializations, especially in elementary education, the state's largest educator group.
Tuition rates in Florida fall below the national average for nearly every type of school. Out-of-state students enrolled at public, four-year institutions in Florida enjoy especially significant cost savings of more than $7,000, compared to the average national cost for these schools. Online programs with in-state tuition rates can often further reduce tuition costs at such schools.
With incentives including salary bonuses and alternative licensure pathways, the state promotes diverse career opportunities for teaching in Florida. Florida teachers guided students to an 86% high school graduate rate in 2017-18, exceeding the national rate.
Postsecondary Education Statistics for Florida
Students in Florida can choose from a host of institutions to pursue their degrees — the state houses 160 four-year schools. Though per-student appropriations do not meet national averages, Florida does match the national average percentage of tax revenue allocated to higher education at 5.8%.
| FL Data | National Data | |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Four-Year Colleges | 160 | 3,004 |
| Number of Two-Year Colleges | 69 | 1,579 |
| Percentage of Students Enrolled in Distance Education | 44.3% | 34.7% |
| Postsecondary Education Appropriations per Full-Time Student | $7,542 | $8,196 |
| Percent of Tax Revenue Allocated to Higher Education | 5.8% | 5.8% |
| Percentage of Adults Over 25 With an Associate Degree | 9.8% | 8.4% |
| Percentage of Adults Over 25 With a Bachelor's Degree | 18.5% | 19.4% |
| Percentage of Adults Over 25 With a Graduate Degree or Higher | 10.6% | 12.1% |
Sources: NCES, SHEEO, U.S. Census Bureau – American Community Survey
Accreditation for Florida Schools
Students researching how to become a teacher in Florida should only consider accredited schools. Schools may receive regional or national accreditation through an agency approved by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.
Regional accreditation is usually reserved for nonprofit institutions. Typically, students planning to transfer schools or pursue graduate studies must have completed coursework at regionally accredited institutions. Florida schools receive regional accreditation through the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Some education programs in Florida also receive programmatic accreditation through an agency such as the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation. Programmatic accreditation demonstrates that an education program meets field standards for professional certification and experience.
Considerations for a Teaching Degree in Florida
There are a host of factors aspiring teachers in Florida must consider as they choose a program. Students should investigate online versus campus-based degrees, what grade or subject they want to teach, and tuition costs.
Teaching Degree Levels
While teaching certification in Florida requires a bachelor's degree, students can pursue a teaching degree at any level on the path toward a lucrative career. Florida schools offer diverse specializations in particular grade levels and teaching subjects, preparing graduates for licensure in their area of expertise.
Associate Degree in Teaching
Students working toward teaching in Florida with a two-year associate degree can become early childhood educators in birth through pre-K settings. Many graduates of an associate program go on to pursue a bachelor's degree, including a state-approved teacher education program, which is the minimum education requirement for K-12 teachers in all public and some private Florida schools.
Bachelor's Degree in Teaching
Students learning how to become a teacher in Florida must begin with a bachelor's degree, the minimum education requirement for certification. Students must also choose a teaching grade and/or subject as their major. State-approved teaching degrees at this level in Florida include a teacher education program, which qualifies graduates for the teacher certification examination.
Master's Degree in Teaching
Students must earn a master's degree to pursue jobs in education administration or school counseling in Florida. Enrollees may also pursue a master's in a specialization, such as K-12 reading or speech-language impaired, or particular teaching subject or grade level. Schools may offer a master of education (M.Ed.) or a master of arts in teaching (MAT).
Ph.D. in Teaching
Teaching in Florida in a postsecondary school typically requires a doctorate. A terminal degree in education, such as an Ed.D., can prepare students for jobs in educational research and policy or education administration. While completion times vary by program, a Ph.D. or Ed.D. usually takes 4-6 years to complete.
What Grade or Subject Will You Want To Teach?
Aspiring teachers in Florida should first decide which grade and/or subject they want to teach. Since the state requires teachers to take the Florida Teacher Certification Examinations (FTCE) or Florida Educational Leadership Examination in a particular subject, grade, or specialization, teachers can pursue certification aligned with their individual career goals.
Researching how to become a preschool teacher in Florida starts with a degree-completion plan. Preschool teachers in public schools require at least a bachelor's degree and teaching certification. Alternatively, an associate degree may suffice for childcare professionals, teacher's aides, and preschool teachers in private schools.
On-Campus Versus Online Program Options
Students interested in teaching in Florida can complete their degree in a variety of formats. Many schools offer programs to accommodate learners in all locations and specializations. Most Florida schools enable students to choose whether to attend classes on campus, online, or through hybrid study.
On-Campus Programs
Many Florida colleges still offer traditional teaching degrees. Students may choose to study on campus in order to physically access academic advisors, campus amenities, and peer support. In terms of academic performance, some students simply prefer learning in a conventional in-person classroom.
Online Programs
Online programs provide the same immersive experience as campus-based degrees in Florida. Most distance degrees involve weekly assignments and offer support through virtual textbooks, tutoring, and technology assistance. Distance learners often require stronger self-management and time-management skills than traditional students.
Many online degrees provide more flexible enrollment and scheduling options than a traditional program. Online programs in Florida can also offer in-state tuition rates and enable enrollees to reduce or eliminate commuting costs and living expenses.
Hybrid Programs
Hybrid programs best suit students who prefer learning through a combination of in-person and online instruction. Most hybrid degrees pair online coursework with several in-person sessions each semester. Such programs can accommodate working students by offering in-person classes at night or on weekends. Hybrid programs also serve part-time students and commuters with limited campus access.
| Enrolled Exclusively in Distance Education Courses | Enrolled in Some but Not All Distance Education Courses | Not Enrolled in Any Distance Education Courses | |
|---|---|---|---|
| FL Students | 18.8% | 25.5% | 55.7% |
| United States Students | 16.3% | 18.4% | 65.3% |
Source: NCES
Paying for Your Teaching Degree
Cost is a major concern for students learning how to become a teacher in Florida. Most Floridians require financial aid to complete their teaching degree. Most schools require college students to submit the FAFSA with their admissions application to determine financial aid eligibility. Options may include scholarships, grants, fellowships, federal funding, and loans.
As shown below, most types of schools in Florida offer lower tuition costs than the national average. Public, four-year institutions in Florida offer a savings of more than $7,400 for out-of-state students when compared to national tuition rates. Florida offers financial aid through TEACH grants, loan forgiveness for teachers, and programs like the Florida Fund for Minority Teachers. Learn more at the pages linked below.
| Florida | National | |
|---|---|---|
| Average In-State Tuition and Fees (Public Four-Year) | $4,455 | $9,037 |
| Average Out-of-State Tuition and Fees (Public Four-Year) | $18,241 | $25,657 |
| Average Tuition and Fees (Private Four-Year) | $25,531 | $30,731 |
| Average In-State Tuition and Fees (Public Two-Year) | $2,506 | $3,243 |
| Average Out-of-State Tuition and Fees (Public Two-Year) | $9,111 | $7,971 |
Source: NCES
In-State Versus Out-of-State Tuition
Online learning offers many benefits and accommodations, especially for nonresident students. Many Floridians seek out schools offering affordable online programs with low tuition rates for learners who may reside out of state. Schools such as the University of South Florida and Broward College offer minimal per-credit tuition increases for nonresidents enrolled in online programs.
Additionally, Florida participates in a reciprocity agreement with surrounding states through the Southern Regional Education Board (SREB), under the broader Midwestern Higher Education Compact. SREB represents schools in 16 of the southernmost United States, enabling nonresident students attending participating schools to pay discounted tuition rates.
Florida's Cost of Living
Students researching the cost of teaching programs in Florida should also consider the cost of living, which significantly impacts where a student decides to earn their degree. Florida maintains a lower cost of living (97.9) than the national average of 100. Other factors that contribute to Florida's low cost of living include housing and transportation costs, both below the national average at 95.4 and 96.7, respectively.
Other School Selection Criteria
The process of choosing a school can involve a long list of critical factors. Key considerations might include:
Program Length
Students who aspire to start teaching Florida as soon as possible might consider an online program with accelerated completion options.
School Size
While some students prefer the amenities large schools can offer, others thrive in an intimate setting where they can get personalized attention from instructors.
Prestige/Reputation
Beyond offering a state-approved teacher education program, some schools maintain a higher level of prestige by touting features such as programmatically accredited teaching programs.
Job Placement
Schools with robust alumni networks and career service centers can help ensure students find employment after graduation.
Program Culture
Many Florida schools accommodate aspiring educators through a variety of teaching specializations for every grade and subject.
Extracurriculars
For students attending in person, schools with a bevy of extracurricular activities like Greek life, study groups, and networking events on campus can make the college experience more meaningful.
Teaching in Florida
Florida ranked third in the nation for education in 2018, according to U.S. News & World Report. Florida also ranked No.1 for higher education in 2018. The Nation's Report Card shows fourth-graders exceeding the national average in subjects including science, reading, and writing, and especially math, for multiple consecutive years. These achievements can be attributed to Florida's highly qualified elementary school teachers.
Florida serves more than 4,200 public schools and employs more than 164,000 full-time teachers. The state enrolls more than 2.5 million students, with an emphasis on K-12 reading programs, career and technical training for adult learners, and accommodations for students with visual or hearing impairments or learning disabilities.
Partnered with the FDOE, the Florida Education Foundation focuses on developing the teacher workforce and improving education programs statewide. Additionally, the FDOE hosts its own Just for Teachers community online, providing resources such as a classroom supply assistance program, field trips, and teacher discounts.
How to Become a Teacher in Florida
Prospective teachers in Florida must navigate a series of certification options. Teachers may pursue a direct path to professional certification or obtain a temporary certificate before applying for full professional credentials. Teachers with out-of-state certification must hold credentials in the same subject and grade level as a Florida professional teaching certificate, or hold a certificate issued by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards.
Most students complete a bachelor's degree on the direct path to professional certification in Florida. These students must complete a state-approved initial teacher preparation program. Additionally, learners must take and pass the FTCE in three parts: general knowledge, professional preparation and education competency, and the subject test in a teaching subject.
Florida's initial teacher preparation programs include field hours teaching in a statewide elementary or secondary school. These field hours are typically embedded within a bachelor's or master's teaching curriculum. Students who have not yet completed the initial teacher preparation program must pursue employment at a state-approved school to qualify for a temporary certificate.
Notable Florida Schools and Districts
Miami-Dade County Public Schools
The fourth-largest school district in the U.S., M-DCPS includes 476 schools and serves more than 350,000 students. More than 17,700 teachers work in this district. M-DCPS earned an "A" rating for more two consecutive years, home to 13 of Florida's top 20 schools, according to U.S. News & World Report. M-DCPS' public schools boast a graduation rate of 89%.
Broward County Public Schools
BCPS is the nation's sixth-largest school district and the second-largest in Florida. The district boasts a 95.1% graduation rate. BCPS includes 241 schools and technical colleges and 89 charter schools. The district employs more than 14,000 instructors and enrolls more than 260,000 students.
Hillsborough County Public Schools
The seventh-largest school district in the U.S., HCPS serves more than 224,000 students and occupies more than 235 schools and instructional sites. The district employs more than 24,000 teachers and staff. HCPS' graduation rate has increased for five consecutive years, setting an all-time record at 85.8% in 2018.
Florida Teacher Salaries
Teachers in Florida earn variable salaries depending on the grade and subject they teach. While the average salary of teachers in Florida does not meet the national occupational average, the state accommodates teachers at all levels of education and experience. Special educators in kindergarten and elementary schools earn the highest Florida teacher salary, as shown below.
Kindergarten and elementary school special education teachers making $62,950 also come closest to meeting the national average for this occupation ($64,420). Special education middle school teachers represent the second-highest earners among educators in Florida, earning $58,400, followed by secondary school teachers, who earn $57,880.
The table below also illustrates the potential for teachers with an advanced degree and extensive experience to earn more than bachelor's degree-holders. While teachers with a bachelor's degree and minimal experience earn a base salary of $39,670, Florida teacher salary can increase to $59,050 for educators with a master's degree and 20+ years of experience. Variable districts, subjects, and shortage areas also affect Florida teacher salaries.
Florida Teacher Salaries
Florida Trends in Education
Florida enrolls nearly three million students and employs a workforce of more than 164,000 teachers, concentrated primarily in elementary schools. The state reported a 16% increase in elementary and secondary school enrollment from 2017 to 2020, higher than the national average of 7%. Florida boasts a low student-to-teacher ratio (17.31), only slightly above the national ratio of 16-to-1.
Florida's highly qualified teachers led high school students to achieve an adjusted cohort graduation rate of 86% in 2017-18, exceeding the national average by 1%. While elementary school teachers represent the largest employment group of educators at more than 74,000, preschool teachers project the highest job growth (12.3%) in the state from 2018-28. Teacher assistants project both the second-largest employment and the second-highest job growth in Florida during the same period.
While special educators, especially in kindergarten and elementary schools, earn some of the highest Florida teacher salaries, the state houses very few special education facilities compared to the national data. The state does not operate any one-teacher schools such as those dedicated to special education or gifted learners.
Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Many schools offer online programs to prepare students for teaching Florida. In fact, statistics show more Floridians enroll in online college programs than the national average.
Professional Teaching Organizations in Florida
Florida Education AssociationFEA serves 145,000 members, including teachers in K-12 and postsecondary schools and retired educators in Florida. FEA recognizes that the majority of its members spend their own income on supplies and offers benefits including discounts of up to 50% at more than 350,000 merchants nationwide.
Professional Educators Network of FloridaPEN focuses on providing liability insurance and employment rights protection to Florida teachers. Members enjoy long-term healthcare and life insurance, dental and vision insurance, and tax-deferred annuity options. PEN also offers multiple discounts on consumer goods and services.
Association of American EducatorsThe largest of its kind with members in all 50 states, AAE is a non-union professional teachers' organization. AAE promotes best teaching practices with an emphasis on continuing education and professional networking. Benefits include insurance and employment rights coverage, and access to teaching scholarships and grants.
Florida Association of Teacher EducatorsAs Florida's state branch of the Association of Teacher Educators, FATE's membership spans the entire state, divided into five regional units. FATE distributes exclusive publications, grants awards to teaching scholars, and hosts an annual conference for members in Florida.
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Teaching Programs in Florida
The following ranks the best schools for teaching in Florida, including only accredited programs. Students should check the IPEDS site (updated annually) to confirm that their school holds national or regional accreditation. In addition to maintaining accreditation institution-wide, the following schools offer programs that include career training for Florida teachers.