Florida kicked off this school year with around 5,000 teaching jobs still unfilled—that’s a pretty big gap and a clear sign that getting more qualified teachers into classrooms has never been more important. The need is real, and the time to step up is now.
This is why there’s an increasing number of accelerated teaching degree programs in Florida today. This is especially true in in-demand fields like STEM, special education, and bilingual education.
Here in this guide, we will explore the top accelerated teaching degree programs in Florida, explaining what they offer and how you can get started. Whether you’re a career changer, a paraprofessional, or someone passionate about education, there’s a program tailored for you.
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- 5 Key Requirements for Entering an Accelerated Education Degree Program
- Top 5 Reasons to Choose an Accelerated Education Degree
- Fast-Track to the Classroom: The Rise of Accelerated Education Degrees
- Best Online Bachelors in Education Programs: Students Before Profits Award
What is an Accelerated Teaching Degree Program?
An accelerated teaching degree program is designed for individuals with a bachelor’s degree in a non-education field who want to transition into teaching quickly. Unlike traditional teacher preparation programs, which can take several years, these accelerated programs condense the coursework and field experience into a shorter timeframe—typically 12 to 18 months.
There are several pathways you can take:
- Post-Baccalaureate Certification: Ideal for those who already have a bachelor’s degree and want to earn teaching certification.
- Master’s in Teaching: Combines graduate-level coursework with teacher preparation, leading to both a master’s degree and teaching certification.
- Alternative Certification Programs: Designed for career changers, these programs often include job placement assistance and mentorship.
Accelerated teaching degree programs in Florida are designed for career changers, paraprofessionals, or someone with a passion for teaching. These programs can help you enter the classroom faster.
Key Features to Look for in Florida Accelerated Teaching Programs
When evaluating fast-track teaching degrees in Florida, consider the following:
- Accreditation: Ensure the teaching program is accredited/recognized by recognized bodies like the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) and approved by the
- Program Format: You should decide between online, in-person, or hybrid (mix of both) formats based on your learning preferences and schedule.
- Specializations: Search programs that offer specializations in areas like elementary education, secondary education, special education, or English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL).
- Clinical Experience: Hands-on teaching experience is crucial. Ensure the program includes student teaching or internships in real classroom settings.
- Certification Pathways: Determine whether the program leads to initial licensure or professional certification and understand the specific requirements for each.
Top 7 Accelerated Teaching Degree Programs in Florida
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1. University of Central Florida – Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT)
- Format: Online and campus options
- Program duration: 18 months
- Cost:
- $369.65/credit (in-state)
- $1,194.05/credit (out-of-state)
The MAT program at UCF is designed for individuals with a bachelor’s degree in a non-education field. With both online and campus options, the program offers specializations in areas like
- Art
- English language arts
- Mathematics
- Science
- Social science
- World languages education
The program includes a two-semester internship and prepares students for the Florida Teacher Certification Examination.
2. Florida Atlantic University – Florida Institute for the Advancement of Teaching (FIAT)
- Format: Campus
- Program duration: Varies
- Cost: Varies
FAU offers some of the best Florida teacher certification programs. The Florida Institute for the Advancement of Teaching or FIAT offers three unique programs to guide future teachers at different stages of their college journey:
- Good FIT – Designed for freshmen and sophomores who are curious about teaching and want to test the waters.
- SMaRT – Perfect for juniors or early seniors who are ready to step into the classroom and gain hands-on experience by substituting alongside a mentor teacher.
- AIT (Accelerated Induction into Teaching) – The final step, geared toward graduating seniors. This capstone program helps them transition smoothly into their first full-time teaching role. The program provides mentorship and support, and participants receive a $5,000 stipend.
FIAT is also tagged as one of the top Florida education programs for non-education majors.
3. University of West Florida – TeacherReady Online Certification
- Format: Campus
- Program duration: 12 lessons
- Cost: $450 per lesson
Aside from offering various online teaching degrees in Florida, UWF is also widely known for its TeacherReady Online Certificate Program. This has helped professionals, veterans, and recent graduates earn teaching certification in over 30 subjects—nationwide and internationally. The program focuses on real, effective teaching skills that make a difference in today’s classrooms.
4. Florida International University – Alternative Certification Program (ACP)
- Format: 100% online
- Program duration: Typically 12–18 months
- Cost: Varies by number of credits and residency status
This alternative teacher certification in Florida is a 100% online program that works closely with Florida school districts. It’s approved for state teacher certification, making it a convenient option for those seeking flexibility without compromising on quality.
5. St. Petersburg College – Educator Preparation Institute (EPI)
- Format: Online and in-person
- Program duration: Three semesters
- Cost: $2,863.65
In addition to offering one-year teaching programs in Florida, St. Petersburg College’s EPI program offers a fast-track program for bachelor’s degree holders aiming to earn a Florida Professional Educator Certification. The program includes online coursework, fieldwork, and a full-day, 10-week internship in a Florida public school.
6. Barry University – Job-Embedded Teaching Pathway (JET)
- Format: Online
- Program duration: Varies
- Cost: Varies
Being ranked as one of the best teaching colleges in Florida, the JET program lets you learn and grow on the job, embedding coursework and professional development directly into your teaching experience. With FAFSA and district support, the Job Embedded Teaching Pathway could cost you nothing out of pocket.
7. Nova Southeastern University – Fischler College of Education
- Format: Online and in-person
- Program duration: Varies
- Cost: $1,199/credit
If you want full-blown teaching degrees for career changers in Florida, consider exploring Nova’s flexible online MS programs. You can focus your degree on specialized concentrations and learn through hands-on, research-driven activities with a strong emphasis on serving underserved communities.
Admission Requirements and Application Tips
The admission requirements of accelerated teaching degree programs in Florida vary. But they generally include:
- Bachelor’s Degree: A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
- GPA: A minimum GPA, typically between 2.5 and 3.0.
- Background Check: Completion of a background check and fingerprinting.
- Application Materials: Submission of a resume, transcripts, and letters of recommendation.
Tips for Strengthening Your Application:
- Volunteer Experience: Engage in volunteer teaching or tutoring to gain classroom experience.
- Professional Development: Attend workshops or seminars related to education to enhance your knowledge and skills.
- Personal Statement: Craft a strong personal statement. Highlight your passion for teaching and commitment to education.
Financial Aid and Scholarships for Teaching Students in Florida
Many financial aid options are available to aspiring teachers in Florida:
- TEACH Grant: A federal grant that provides funding for students wanting to teach in high-need fields.
- Florida Fund for Minority Teachers: A state program offering scholarships to minority students pursuing teaching careers.
- Institutional Scholarships: Many Florida colleges and universities offer their own scholarships specifically for education students. These can help cover tuition, fees, and sometimes even supplies or technology.
- Tuition Reimbursement Programs: Some Florida school districts offer tuition reimbursement for teachers who continue their education or obtain additional certifications while working.
Career Outlook and Salary Expectations for Florida Teachers
Let’s talk about what happens after you finish accelerated teacher education programs in Florida—aka, the whole reason you’re doing this in the first place: landing a teaching job.
In Florida, starting teacher salaries vary depending on the school district but generally fall somewhere between $41,000 to $48,000 per year.
- Some districts—such as Miami-Dade, Broward, or Orange County—may offer a bit more due to the higher cost of living or staffing requirements.
- Rural or smaller districts might offer a bit less but may also come with incentives such as housing stipends or signing bonuses.
If you’re aiming to get hired fast or want the best shot at job security, consider going into one of Florida’s high-need teaching areas:
- STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math)
- Special Education
- Bilingual/ESOL Education
- Elementary Education
Florida’s public education system is growing, especially in suburban and developing areas. The Florida Department of Education projects a steady increase in teaching positions, especially as veteran teachers retire and the population continues to grow. With over 2.7 million students in public schools, the demand for certified teachers isn’t going away anytime soon.
Conclusion
If you’re looking to make a meaningful career shift—or finally pursue that dream of teaching you’ve had tucked away—an accelerated teaching program in Florida is a smart, practical path forward. You get to enter the workforce faster, save on tuition compared to traditional routes, and start making an impact in the classroom in as little as a year.
These programs are tailor-made for real life: working adults, career changers, and motivated individuals who want to start teaching without spending four or more years back in school.
