Each state determines requirements for licensing educational personnel within its jurisdiction, so teacher education programs prepare teacher candidates to meet these requirements. Reciprocity agreements among many states exist for hiring teachers, but usually a state will require individuals licensed elsewhere to meet any local requirements for certification within a specified period of time from the date of employment. While requirements vary, all states ask teachers in public schools to have at least a bachelor's degree for initial teaching certification and eligibility for employment.
Some states now require their teachers to acquire master's degrees for second-stage certification.
Strong offerings in subject areas, pedagogy, and field experience are good preparation. Linkage between the school of education and the liberal arts departments is important. Learning to work with culturally diverse students and their parents is increasingly critical. Strong collaborative relationships between the university and area schools is an asset, like those found in professional development schools. Exploring new models for teaching, as in site-based school management or comprehensive services with other professionals, can give better preparation for restructured schools.