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Great Teachers Start at PSU

A teacher pathway designed for you

Flexible programs. Expert instruction. Real impact.

At PSU, we prepare teachers for immediate success — and employment — through strong partnerships with local schools. Gain hands-on experience, advocate for all students, and make a meaningful difference in classrooms and communities. Explore our teacher education master’s programs today and take the next step toward a rewarding teaching career!

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PSU offers diverse pathways to become a teacher

Pick the program that's right for you!

Special Education

Special education teachers work in collaboration with lead instructors and teaching assistants to develop individualized lesson plans for students with a wide range of special needs. Learn to effectively teach students with a wide range of support needs from complex disabilities to those who need targeted support with behavior, social, or academic skills.

We offer one master's pathway to become a special education teacher:

  • Special Education K-12 - If you’re interested in working with students with special needs, collaborating with teachers, families, and administrators, and learning how to create lesson plans for all learners, this program is for you! 

Elementary Education

Elementary teachers provide instruction in multiple subjects in kindergarten through fifth grade classrooms. They are generalists, needing to know a little bit of everything rather than specializing in a particular area. You will develop a deep understanding of all the core subjects and how to utilize teaching strategies to support a vibrant learning classroom.

We offer three master's pathways to become an elementary teacher:

  • Bilingual Teacher Pathway - If you're bilingual and bicultural and want to support elementary students—especially in developing language skills—this is the program for you! 
  • Elementary Education - If you're excited to work with K-5 students and create a vibrant learning community, this is the program for you!
  • International Teacher Education - If you earned a teaching license in another country and want to become licensed to teach in Oregon, this program is for you!


 

Secondary Education

Middle school and high school teachers provide instruction in a specific subject and teach multiple groups of students throughout the day. We will teach you subject-specific methods of instruction to best support all learners. To become a secondary teacher, you will need to earn a bachelor's degree and complete coursework in the content area you hope to teach.  

We offer three master's pathways to become a secondary teacher:

  • Bilingual Teacher Pathway - If you’re bilingual and have subject-area expertise, this program is for you!  
  • Graduate Teacher Education Program - If you love your subject area and want to teach teenagers, this program is for you! 
  • International Teacher Education Program - If you earned a teaching license in another country and want to become licensed to teach in Oregon, this program is for you!

Ready to learn more?

Join us at our Open House on November 10th, 4:30pm - 7:30pm

Join us for an evening of connection, conversation, and community! meet College of Education faculty, staff, and students, explore programs and financial aid, and get support for your next steps.

Register to attend Open HouseFind out more on our website
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Connect to the Power of Portland

Help Fill the Teacher Shortage

Completing a teacher preparation program in Portland ensures you'll learn from the best and land a job in the Portland metro as soon as you graduate. PSU has built an extensive network of partnerships with schools and school districts in the Portland metro area. As a result, our graduates find jobs within Portland Public Schools and other districts as soon as they graduate. PSU teacher candidates are sought after by principals both for student teaching field placements and for hiring.

Apply Now
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Gain hands-on experience

With us, you will:

  • Earn your master’s degree and Oregon teaching license in one to three years. Choose the flexible option that works for you!
  • Design, plan, and implement lesson plans that encourage creativity, build community, and make a real impact on your students' futures.
  • Learn from experienced elementary, secondary, and special education teachers who have scholarly expertise and advanced degrees.
  • Gain hands-on teaching experience and build strong connections. Become an advocate for all students.

How to Become a Teacher in Oregon

  1. Complete a bachelor’s degree from an accredited school.
  2. Choose a subject and grade level. PSU offers tracks in elementary, secondary, and special education. 
  3. Complete a teacher preparation program. The program must qualify for a TSPC Oregon Preliminary Teaching License. All teacher preparation programs at PSU qualify.
  4. Complete your student teaching requirements through the teacher preparation program.
  5. Apply for your license through the state, complete your background check, and pass testing requirements.

Accreditation

PSU's teacher preparation programs are accredited by the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP).