One of the most asked questions we hear at TEACH.org is, “What should I look for in a teacher preparation program?”

We get it. There are thousands of teacher prep programs in the U.S. How do you narrow down the list without making your head spin? How do you find one that will prepare you to succeed with your students from day one? We tapped teachers from our Talk to a Teacher program for personal tips that helped them find the right launchpad for their careers.

1. Find a teacher prep program that offers strong hands-on experience

“I wanted to attend a college that encouraged hands-on classroom experience,” says Jo Margeson, who taught seventh grade for over 30 years in Oregon. “I felt the more classroom experience I had, the better teacher I would become.”

It's true: The more hands-on practice (aka student teaching or clinical experience) you get during your training program, the better prepared you will be. Keep in mind that programs vary in terms of how much and the quality of student teaching experience they provide.

2. Make sure the programs you’re considering are reputable and highly-regarded

“I needed a program that was reputable and had credible, knowledgeable staff,” says Bri Smocks, 10th grade English teacher. “I went through a preparation program through my university, SMU, so it was also convenient for me.” Bonus: Southern Methodist University even covered a good portion of Bri’s tuition.

Some ways to research the reputation and regard for the programs you are considering include:

• Look into any official state report cards or rating systems on teacher prep programs. 
• Compare teacher prep program stats and read previous and current student reviews.
• Ask alumni of the program how well-prepared they felt coming out of the program.
• Ask teachers and principals in the area what they think of the program.
• Check whether the program is CAEP-accredited. (CAEP stands for Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation.)

3. Ask yourself the big questions

“I asked myself two big questions: (1) Can I see myself grow and make impact in this environment? (2) What professional development opportunities are available for me," says Rebecca Clark, retired sixth-12th grade teacher.

Based on Rebecca's insight, you might want to ask the staff at any program you are interested in: How will I be supported and developed throughout the program? And how do you assess my readiness to teach and have an impact?

Your questions may differ from Rebecca’s, or not. The point is, you’ve got to ask them. Find a distraction-free zone (away from family, friends and your phone) to get quiet, and identify your true must-haves.

4. Compare employment rates across teacher prep programs

"I looked for a program that had a high employment placement rate, was close to home, and is highly rated and affordable among universities," says Jennifer Smith, classroom teacher of 12 years in middle school science.

Get 1:1 advice from a real teacher

Our free Talk to a Teacher program gives you the chance to chat one-on-one with teachers—like Bri, Rebecca and Jo—any time you need help. They’re not paid to recruit, so you’ll get honest advice. Sign-up takes just a few minutes.

Research smarter, not harder

Once you’ve got your must-haves at the ready, use our handy database to start browsing master’s level teacher prep programs. And be sure to contact admissions staff for all your additional teacher prep program questions.