Costs of Becoming a Teacher in Ohio: Traditional vs. Online Certification

Becoming a licensed teacher in Ohio involves various pathways, each with its own set of requirements and associated costs. Two primary routes are the traditional university-based teacher preparation programs and alternative certification programs like the American Board for Certification of Teacher Excellence (ABCTE). This article provides a comparative analysis of these pathways, focusing on the financial aspects to help prospective educators make informed decisions.

Traditional Teacher Certification in Ohio

Overview:

The traditional route typically involves enrolling in a state-approved educator preparation program, which includes completing a bachelor's degree in education, participating in student teaching, and passing the necessary licensure exams.

Estimated Costs:

1. Tuition and Fees:

   • Bachelor's Degree: Tuition varies widely depending on the institution. For example, in-state tuition at public universities like Ohio State University can range from $11,000 to $12,000 per year, while private institutions may charge upwards of $30,000 annually. Over four years, this amounts to approximately $44,000 to $120,000.

2. Licensure Exams:

   • Ohio Assessments for Educators (OAE): Candidates are required to pass specific content area exams and the Assessment of Professional Knowledge. Each exam costs approximately $105.

3. Background Checks:

   • Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) background checks are mandatory, costing around $60 to $80.

4. Licensure Application Fees:

   • Resident Educator License (4-Year): $160

   • Professional Educator License (5-Year): $200 

Total Estimated Cost: Considering tuition, exams, background checks, and licensure fees, the total cost for traditional certification can range from $45,000 to over $120,000, depending on the institution and duration of the program.

Online Certification via the American Board (ABCTE)

Overview:

The American Board offers an alternative certification pathway designed for individuals who already hold a bachelor's degree. The program is self-paced, entirely online, and allows candidates to earn certification without returning to a traditional classroom setting.

Program Options and Costs:

1. Standard Program:

   • Program Fee: $2,850

   • Administrative Fee: $160

   • Total: $3,010

   • Discounted Total: $2,682

   • Installment Plan: $298 per month over 9 months 

   • Upfront: $1,900

2. Premium Program:

   • Program Fee: $3,050

   • Processing Fee: $160

   • Total: $3,210

   • Discounted Total: $2,880

   • Installment Plan: $320 per month over 9 months

   • Upfront: $2,100

Additional Costs:

• Licensure Exams:

  • Candidates must pass the OAE Assessment of Professional Knowledge: Multi-Age (PK–12) during their second year of teaching under the Alternative Resident Educator License. 

• Background Checks:

  • Similar to the traditional route, BCI and FBI background checks are required, costing approximately $60 to $80.

• Licensure Application Fees:

  • Alternative Resident Educator License (4-Year): $160 

Total Estimated Cost: Including program fees, exams, background checks, and licensure application, the total cost ranges from approximately $3,900 to $4,200.

Comparative Analysis

Cost Component	Traditional Certification	American Board Certification
Tuition and Program Fees	$44,000 – $120,000	$2,682 – $3,210
Licensure Exams	~$210	~$105
Background Checks	$60 – $80	$60 – $80
Licensure Application Fees	$160 – $200	$160
Total Estimated Cost	$45,000 – $120,000+	$3,900 – $4,200

Time Commitment:

• Traditional Route: Typically requires four years to complete a bachelor's degree, plus additional time for student teaching and licensure processing.

• American Board: Designed to be completed in less than one year, allowing candidates to study at their own pace while working full-time.

Flexibility:

• Traditional Route: Follows a structured academic calendar with fixed class schedules.

• American Board: Offers self-paced online learning, enabling candidates to balance studies with personal and professional commitments. 

Conclusion

The choice between traditional and alternative certification pathways in Ohio largely depends on individual circumstances, including educational background, financial considerations, and career goals. For individuals seeking a cost-effective and flexible route to enter the teaching profession, the American Board's online certification program presents a compelling option. It significantly reduces the financial burden and time commitment associated with traditional programs, making it an attractive pathway for career changers and those with existing bachelor's degrees. https://www.americanboard.org/ohio/

Prospective educators should carefully evaluate both pathways, considering factors such as program accreditation, subject area availability, and long-term career objectives, to determine the best fit for their professional journey.