2026 How Long Does It Take to Be a Teacher in Colorado?

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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Becoming a teacher in Colorado is a rewarding path that shapes future generations and offers professional growth. Colorado boasts a 5.2% faster teacher employment growth rate compared to the national average, highlighting strong demand for educators. This expanding opportunity makes teaching a promising career choice, combined with competitive salaries and supportive communities. Understanding the timeline to become a licensed teacher is essential for planning your journey effectively.

This article, prepared by experts in career planning, will guide you through the steps involved, the time commitment required, and provide clear information to help you achieve your teaching goals in Colorado.

Key Things to Know About How Long It Takes to Be a Teacher in Colorado

• Completing a bachelor’s degree with a teaching focus typically takes four years, providing essential knowledge and skills for Colorado’s classrooms.
• Obtaining licensure through the Colorado Department of Education requires passing the PLACE or edTPA assessments, usually adding several months to the process.
• Alternative licensure programs offer accelerated pathways, enabling candidates to start teaching while completing certification, often within one to two years.

Table of Contents

1. How long does it take to earn a teaching degree in Colorado?
2. How long does teacher certification take in Colorado?
3. Do career changers take less time to become teachers in Colorado?
4. Do advanced degrees shorten the teacher certification process in Colorado?
5. Are online programs speeding up the process of becoming a teacher in Colorado?
6. Do elementary and secondary teachers have different timelines in Colorado?
7. How long is the probationary teaching period in Colorado?
8. How can I specialize in physical education in Colorado?
9. How much does it cost to complete the education requirements in Colorado?
10. How long after certification can you get hired as a teacher in Colorado?
11. How does a teacher's salary in Colorado increase over the career timeline?

How long does it take to earn a teaching degree in Colorado?

The amount of time needed to earn a teaching degree in Colorado varies based on several factors, including whether students enroll full-time or part-time, the specific education program they choose, and any prior college credits they may have. For those pursuing the traditional bachelor’s degree route, the timeline is generally clear and structured, providing a solid foundation for entering the teaching profession. The following are the teaching degree requirements in Colorado, outlined in a straightforward progression:

• General Timeline (Full-Time Enrollment): Earning a bachelor’s degree in education usually takes four years of full-time study at an accredited Colorado university or college.
• General Education Coursework (Years 1–2): The first two years focus on essential courses like math, writing, and sciences, which build a strong academic base for future teaching studies.
• Pre-Professional and Foundational Education Courses (Years 2–3): During this time, students explore education theory, classroom management, and child development, preparing them for advanced coursework.
• Professional Education Coursework (Years 3–4): Students take specialized classes on teaching methods, curriculum design, and assessment tailored to their preferred grade level and subject.
• Field Experience and Student Teaching (Final Year): The last year incorporates hands-on learning, including a minimum of 800 hours divided between observing classrooms and supervised student teaching.
• Graduation and Licensure Application: Completion of all academic and field requirements leads to a bachelor’s degree, after which graduates can apply for an initial teaching license in Colorado.

Understanding how many years to become a teacher in Colorado helps set clear expectations and encourages commitment to the rewarding path of education. For those considering further education options, exploring the best 1 year online masters in education can be a great next step to advance expertise and career growth.

How long does teacher certification take in Colorado?

Teacher certification timelines in Colorado vary depending on your educational background and whether you pursue a traditional or alternative pathway. This flexibility allows candidates to find a route that matches their personal and professional goals while maintaining high standards for educator preparation. Here is an overview of the Colorado teacher certification timeline, highlighting key steps and typical durations:

• Bachelor’s Degree with Approved Teacher Preparation: Most candidates complete a four-year bachelor’s degree program approved by the Colorado Department of Education, laying a solid foundation in educational theory and pedagogy.
• Student Teaching Experience: A minimum of 800 hours of supervised fieldwork, typically completed during one semester, provides practical classroom experience essential for developing effective teaching skills.
• Content Competency Exams: Candidates must demonstrate subject mastery by passing approved exams, such as the Praxis, focusing on subject knowledge rather than basic skills. Preparation and testing times vary but generally take weeks to a few months.
• Background Check and Application Submission: Fingerprint-based background checks usually take two to four weeks, during which you submit all required documents electronically for licensure processing.
• License Processing: Once requirements are fulfilled, initial teacher license applications are processed within four to six weeks, leading to certification valid for three years.

The traditional pathway typically requires about 4.5 to 5 years, including degree completion, student teaching, exam preparation, and license issuance. Alternatively, accelerated programs designed for career changers can take approximately 1 to 2 years, offering an efficient route to certification with provisional licenses available for high-need areas.

For those exploring teaching options, understanding how long to get a teaching license in Colorado is key to planning your career. Whether you follow the traditional path or a faster alternative route, Colorado offers structured support to help you succeed. If you’re interested in deeper academic preparation, consider exploring what are the best online bachelors degree in special education to find programs that meet your needs.

Do career changers take less time to become teachers in Colorado?

Alternative certification pathways in Colorado are thoughtfully designed to help professionals from other fields transition into teaching at an accelerated pace. These programs value prior education and work experience, making it possible for career changers to start teaching sooner and complete certification requirements more efficiently.

• Immediate Classroom Experience: Many programs let candidates teach full-time while completing licensure requirements, eliminating the need for lengthy unpaid student teaching. This hands-on approach builds skills quickly and allows earning an income from day one.
• Waivers Based on Prior Education: Candidates with relevant academic backgrounds can have foundational coursework waived. Instead of retaking courses, they may only need to pass subject-matter exams, which shortens the pathway significantly.
• Flexible Coursework Integration: Online or hybrid formats enable candidates to balance work and study effectively. Coursework often aligns directly with classroom practice, enhancing learning while applied in real time.
• Accelerated Master’s Degree Options: Some programs combine licensure with a master’s degree in about a year. This dual credential not only fast-tracks teaching licensure but also strengthens career prospects.

When I spoke with a teacher from Colorado who graduated from a local school and transitioned careers into education, he shared, “The hardest part was balancing my full-time teaching with coursework during that first year, but knowing I was in the classroom every day made everything feel real and worthwhile.” He appreciated how his previous degree waived several requirements, which “saved me months, maybe even a year.” Reflecting on his journey, he said, “It wasn’t always easy — juggling all those roles tested me — but the support from mentors and seeing my students grow made me confident this was the right path. I truly believe switching careers in Colorado allowed me to step into teaching faster than I ever expected.”

Do advanced degrees shorten the teacher certification process in Colorado?

Holding a master’s or doctoral degree can positively influence the teacher certification timeline in Colorado, especially when the advanced degree aligns with state teaching standards. These qualifications often open doors to faster and more flexible certification routes, rewarding candidates with relevant graduate-level preparation. Here are the different ways advanced degrees can shorten the teaching certification process in Colorado:

• Eligibility for Accelerated or Alternative Certification Programs: Advanced degrees in education or subject areas can qualify candidates for specialized programs that allow full-time teaching while completing certification, often enabling licensure within one academic year.
• Waiver of Prerequisite Coursework: Graduate coursework that matches Colorado’s content standards may substitute for required undergraduate classes, reducing the credits and time needed before entering certification.
• Concurrent Degree and Licensure Completion: Some programs offer combined master’s and licensure tracks, letting candidates earn both simultaneously in about 12 to 18 months, faster than pursuing them separately.
• Advanced Standing for Clinical Experience: Prior graduate-level fieldwork or research may count toward student teaching requirements, decreasing the hours needed to fulfill clinical practice.
• Facilitation of Additional Endorsements: Advanced degrees can simplify qualification for extra endorsements, often reducing related coursework by recognizing previous academic preparation.

Are online programs speeding up the process of becoming a teacher in Colorado?

Flexible online teacher preparation programs are transforming the timeline for becoming a certified teacher in Colorado by providing more efficient and accessible routes to licensure. These innovative programs allow candidates to tailor their learning journey, often reducing traditional barriers and speeding up the process toward entering the classroom.

• Self-Paced Coursework: Many programs offer asynchronous classes, enabling candidates to move through the material at their own speed. This flexibility helps working professionals or those switching careers accelerate their progress without being tied to rigid academic calendars.
• Condensed Program Formats: Some online licensure pathways can be completed in as little as 11 to 12 months, significantly shorter than the typical 16 to 24 months for traditional programs. This compressed timeline helps eager teachers enter the workforce more quickly when prerequisites are met.
• Concurrent Teaching and Coursework: Alternative routes allow aspiring teachers to start teaching in Colorado schools while completing certification requirements online. This “learn while you teach” approach not only speeds up practical training but also supports candidates financially through paid teaching roles.
• Rolling Admissions and Multiple Start Dates: With frequent enrollment windows, candidates avoid long waits for an academic term to begin. This continuous intake model keeps momentum high and adapts to individual readiness and schedules.
• Reduced Geographic Barriers – Online programs break down location constraints, making teacher preparation feasible for individuals in rural or remote areas without relocating. This wider access expands opportunities and shortens the certification path for many.

I recently spoke with a Colorado teacher who graduated from a local university and took advantage of an online licensure program. She shared that balancing work and family had been a significant challenge before discovering the self-paced format. “The ability to study on my own schedule kept me motivated and saved months of waiting for traditional semesters,” she explained. Starting to teach in a local school while finishing courses online made a huge difference, allowing her to gain real classroom experience without delay. Reflecting on her journey, she said, “It felt empowering to see myself progress faster than I expected, knowing I was making an impact in my community sooner.” Her experience highlights how these flexible, online options are truly opening doors and accelerating the route to becoming a Colorado teacher.

Do elementary and secondary teachers have different timelines in Colorado?

In Colorado, becoming an elementary or secondary teacher generally takes about four years of full-time study, including a bachelor’s degree and a teacher preparation program with supervised teaching experience. Both pathways require passing content exams and earning an Initial License valid for three years. This foundational timeline offers a clear and achievable path to entering the teaching profession.

Key differences lie in subject specialization and testing. Elementary teachers demonstrate broad knowledge across core subjects through a general content test, which can streamline their journey. Secondary teachers must show deeper expertise in a specific subject, often needing extra coursework or a subject-specific exam like Praxis. These additional steps can extend the timeline, especially for those changing careers or switching fields, but each milestone brings you closer to a rewarding teaching career.

How long is the probationary teaching period in Colorado?

The probationary teaching period in Colorado typically lasts three consecutive school years of full-time, continuous employment. This probationary phase applies equally to both elementary and secondary education levels, with no distinctions in duration between the two. During this time, teachers are evaluated annually, and contracts are renewed each year based on their effectiveness and performance. While the state sets this minimum three-year period, some local districts may adopt unique procedures or timelines within this framework. For example, Colorado's largest district, Jefferson County R-1, allows probationary teachers to file grievances if their contracts are not renewed, offering teachers additional local support. This probationary period is a vital phase where educators build their skills, demonstrate their commitment, and prepare to advance their careers within Colorado’s supportive public school system.

After successfully completing these three consecutive years with evaluations rating them as “effective” or “highly effective,” teachers become eligible to move beyond probation to gain non-probationary status—similar to tenure or continuing contract status in other states. Achieving this milestone marks a significant step in a teacher’s career, providing increased job security and professional recognition. Colorado educators must show continuous dedication and effectiveness throughout this period to earn this status. Teachers who maintain strong performance unlock greater protections and opportunities, helping them thrive in their careers. For those exploring teaching pathways, finding the cheapest online elementary education degree can be an excellent start to joining the vibrant and rewarding teaching community in Colorado.

How can I specialize in physical education in Colorado?

Pursuing a specialization in physical education can broaden your teaching opportunities and deepen your expertise in student health and activity. Aspiring educators may benefit from targeted coursework, specialized field experiences, and professional development that focus on physical fitness, curriculum design for PE, and innovative instructional techniques. Review the state‐specific requirements and recommended training pathways to ensure you meet Colorado’s certification standards. Find detailed guidance on how to become a PE teacher in Colorado and explore programs that align with your career goals.

How much does it cost to complete the education requirements in Colorado?

Knowing the total investment required for the educational path to become a licensed teacher in Colorado empowers aspiring educators to plan wisely and pursue their goals confidently. Expenses can vary greatly depending on the program type, the institution chosen, and whether the student qualifies as in-state or out-of-state. Exploring options ensures candidates find the best fit for their educational ambitions while managing the essential cost of teacher certification programs in Colorado.

• Bachelor’s Degree Tuition and Fees: This is the foundational path for most entering the teaching profession. In-state students at public universities typically pay between $10,000 and $12,000 annually, while out-of-state tuition can exceed $25,000 per year. These amounts exclude living expenses, which may add $12,000 to $15,000 yearly. A bachelor’s degree not only prepares you with vital pedagogical knowledge but also demonstrates your commitment to school districts looking for well-trained educators.
• Master’s Degree Programs: Graduate studies, costing roughly $12,000 to $24,000 in tuition at public institutions, open doors to specialty areas and leadership roles in education. Although not mandatory for initial licensing, many districts reward advanced degrees with higher pay. Investing in a master’s further strengthens your professional skills and expands career prospects, supported by options like the most affordable masters degrees in teaching online.
• Alternative Certification Programs: For those shifting from other fields, these programs offer flexible routes into teaching, with costs ranging from $5,000 to $10,000. Lasting one to two years, they respond to teacher shortages by fast-tracking qualified individuals into classrooms. These programs provide practical experience and uphold the high standards expected by Colorado schools.
• Testing, Application, and Background Checks: Passing exams such as the Praxis or PLACE, which cost $130 to $180 each, along with state licensing fees of around $90 and background checks ($39.50), rounds out the certification process. These mandatory steps maintain safety and quality standards in schools, ensuring every teacher meets Colorado's professional requirements.

How long after certification can you get hired as a teacher in Colorado?

The timeline to secure a teaching position after certification in Colorado varies based on many factors. While some candidates find rewarding roles quickly, others may need to wait for the next hiring cycle. Understanding these influences can help you navigate the process with confidence and a clear plan.

• Hiring Season and School Calendar: Most school districts hire primarily from March to July for fall starts, so timing your certification with this window can accelerate your job search.
• Subject Demand: High-demand areas like special education, STEM, and bilingual education tend to fill positions faster due to persistent shortages, increasing your chances of a quick hire.
• Geographic Location: Urban districts may offer more opportunities but come with higher competition, while rural districts may hire more rapidly when vacancies arise.
• Application and Interview Process: Preparing strong materials and engaging in interviews can take weeks, but being ready and responsive improves your success rate.
• Networking and Substitute Teaching: Building relationships through substitute roles or internships often leads to faster job offers since familiarity with the district is highly valued.
• Certification Approval Timing: Licensure processing usually takes up to 45 days; ensuring complete documentation helps avoid delays that could push back your application timeline.
• District-Specific Requirements: Some districts ask for additional steps like demonstration lessons or panel interviews, which may extend the hiring timeframe.

Those curious about how long to get a teaching degree in Colorado should recognize that the Colorado teacher education program duration and certification process interplay closely with these hiring factors. For more insight on the career value, explore why is getting a teaching degree worth it as part of your professional journey.

How does a teacher's salary in Colorado increase over the career timeline?

In Colorado, a teacher’s salary grows progressively through a blend of years of service and ongoing professional development. This structured growth system rewards dedication and advancement, enabling educators to see clear financial benefits as they deepen their expertise and take on new challenges.

• Years of Experience: Teachers receive step-based annual raises that increase steadily, especially during the first 15 years, elevating starting salaries around $39,000 toward an average of $63,224 over time.
• Educational Attainment: Advanced degrees, such as master’s or doctorate, boost starting pay and accelerate salary increases, often adding several thousand dollars annually.
• Promotion and Leadership Roles: Taking on leadership positions like department chair or instructional coach opens opportunities for higher pay scales and stipends, recognizing expanded responsibilities.
• Longevity Bonuses: Many districts award bonuses at key career milestones, providing extra financial incentives to experienced teachers.
• Supplemental Duties and Certifications: Additional work like coaching or earning specialized endorsements further enhances earnings potential.

What Do Teachers in Colorado Say About Their Career?

• Completing my teaching program at Rocky Mountain Academy truly prepared me for the diverse classroom environments I encounter daily. Starting my career in a local Colorado school gave me insights into blending academic rigor with the state’s unique cultural heritage. I’ve found great fulfillment in supporting students as they navigate both their educational and personal growth journeys. The stability and support offered through Colorado’s education system have made this career choice incredibly rewarding. Ariana
• The opportunity to work within Colorado’s education community has been professionally enriching and personally meaningful. While I began teaching in a local school, what stands out is how the state’s natural environment and outdoor resources have allowed me to create engaging, hands-on learning experiences for my students. These unique challenges have pushed me to grow as an educator, and I feel proud of contributing to a vibrant community where young minds are empowered every day. Deana
• My training at the Centennial Teacher Preparation Program set a strong foundation, but the real growth came once I started teaching locally. Colorado offers excellent professional development opportunities that have helped me move toward leadership roles without losing sight of my passion for student well-being. The sense of community support here is unmatched—I feel like I’m truly making a difference in the lives of the youth and contributing to their success well beyond academics. Kirstie

References:

• Job Opportunities | Colorado POST https://post.colorado.gov/le-resources/job-opportunities
• Colorado Teacher Licensure Guide – With Help from Local Teachers | TEACH Colorado | TEACH Colorado https://colorado.teach.org/become/licensure/about
• Mrs. Claire's OFFICIAL Praxis Preparation Page | Any Colorado teachers here | Facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/1008853332800698/posts/2363042850715066/
• How to Become a Teacher in Colorado in 2025 | Teachers of Tomorrow https://www.teachersoftomorrow.org/blog/insights/how-to-become-a-teacher-in-colorado/
• How to Become a Teacher in Colorado | BestColleges https://www.bestcolleges.com/education/certification/colorado/
• Online Teacher Licensure Program Colorado & M.Ed. | CSU Online https://www.online.colostate.edu/degrees/education-sciences-teacher/
• Teacher Licensure | School of Education | University of Colorado Boulder https://www.colorado.edu/education/academics/teacher-licensure

Other Things You Need to Know About Becoming a Teacher in Colorado