FAQs

1. The Licensure Waiver (The "Fast Track")

Under current Ohio law, any teacher with a valid Ohio K-12 educator license can teach computer science if they meet one simple condition:

• Professional Development (PD): The teacher must complete a PD program approved by their district superintendent or principal. (The above opportunities through NPESC and OSLN can count for this PD program!) 

• Content Specific: The training must be specific to the course being taught (e.g., a teacher wanting to teach "Intro to Python" must take PD specifically for that curriculum).

• Verification: The district must file a Computer Science Eligibility Verification Form with the state.

2. The Supplemental License

If you want to teach CS but don't yet have the full endorsement, you can obtain a one-year supplemental license.

• Requirements: You must hold a standard teaching license and pass the Ohio Assessment for Educators (OAE) Test 054: Computer Science. (The CS Licensure Exam prep PD counts to prepare you for this test as well as take the exam.)

3. The Full K-12 Computer Science Endorsement

For teachers who want a formal credential on their license that never expires, they must complete a state-approved Computer Science Endorsement Program.

Approved Programs & Coursework

Several Ohio universities offer these programs, which typically consist of 15–21 graduate credit hours and can often be completed online in about one year. Notable programs that NPESC supports include:

Kent State University

View and register for Kent State's Program

Cleveland State University

View more information and register for Cleveland State's Program