Become a Teacher in South Carolina — the Alternative Pathway!
We will be hosting an informational session on alternative certification pathways on Tuesday, March 24 from 3:30–4:30 PM at the School District of Newberry County's District Office. Representatives from CarolinaCAP, Teachers of Tomorrow, and PACE will be in attendance to share information and answer questions.
This session is open to any current staff members interested in pursuing an alternative pathway to certified teaching.
Please note: All programs require completion of a four-year bachelor’s degree prior to enrollment.
If you wish to attend, please sign-up here!
We hope you will join us to learn more about these opportunities!
Start teaching while you earn your teacher certification!
What is Alternative Certification?
Alternative certification provides a non-traditional route to becoming a certified teacher in South Carolina. Instead of completing a traditional college teacher preparation program first, eligible candidates can teach in the classroom while working toward full certification through an approved program.
Who Should Consider This Pathway?
✔ Career changers with a bachelor’s degree ✔ Individuals with strong subject-area knowledge ✔ School staff wanting to become certified teachers ✔ People who want to begin teaching sooner and be paid while they learn.
How It Works:
1. Meet Eligibility Requirements
o Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university
o Did not complete student teaching in a traditional program
o Meet additional criteria of your chosen alternative program (e.g., GPA, subject test scores)
The School District of Newberry County requires passing Praxis scores along with program eligibility letter prior to hire for alternative pathways.
2. Choose a Program South Carolina offers multiple approved alternative programs, such as: • Program of Alternative Certification for Educators (PACE) • American Board • CarolinaCAP • TeachAOP, Teachers of Tomorrow •TeachRight USA
3. Apply to Your Program Provider • Submit transcripts, test scores, and any program-specific materials directly to the program you choose (e.g., PACE, Teachers of Tomorrow).
4. Submit Your SCDE Application • Create a My SC Educator Portal account • Submit the Alternative Route application • Upload transcripts, assessment scores, and background check info • Pay the non-refundable fee • Track your application status online
5. Receive a Statement of Eligibility & Find a Job Once eligible, you can seek employment in a South Carolina public school. Your district will submit employment confirmation for your first alternative route certificate.
6. Teach & Complete Program Requirements • Teach while training • Complete required coursework or seminars • After successful completion → Professional Teaching Certificate
Why Choose Alternative Certification?
✔ Start teaching sooner ✔ Earn a salary while you learn ✔ Flexible options across many subject areas ✔ Programs available statewide through universities, districts, and approved providers
Get Started Now!
Create a My SC Educator Portal account to begin your alternative certification application. Email: altcertification@ed.sc.gov for general questions SCDE Office of Educator Services: 803-896-0325
Useful Links
SCDE Alternative Certification Overview https://ed.sc.gov/educators/alternative-certification/
Apply for Certification & Alternative Route https://ed.sc.gov/educators/certification/apply/