Northeastern State University

Certification Examination Schedule

Upcoming testing dates here (503 Kb pdf)

The Certification Examinations for Oklahoma Educators (CEOE) include all tests required for initial and advanced certification.  For initial certification, candidates pass three tests:

• Oklahoma General Education Test (OGET)*
• Oklahoma Subject Area Test (OSAT) - varies content areas
• Oklahoma Professional Teacher Examination (OPTE)*

*Computer-based testing available

For advanced certification in school counseling, reading specialist, library media specialist or school administration, candidates take the OSAT which corresponds to their masters degree.

The Oklahoma Commission for Teacher Preparation (OCTP) oversees the testing program. For more information or to register for a test, contact:

Oklahoma law requires that all teachers, counselors, reading specialists, media specialists, and administrators be appropriately certified to work in Oklahoma schools. Educator candidates may pursue certification primarily through two pathways: University Recommendation and Alternative Certification. Requirements differ according to the candidate's background and experiences.  Individuals with questions about certification requirements are encouraged to contact Northeastern State University's Certification Coordinator, Mrs. Lois Buttress, 918-444-3702 or buttress@nsuok.edu.

Initial Certification

At Northeastern State University, all teacher education programs are aligned with the Oklahoma General Competencies for Licensure and Certification and the specific subject area competencies identified for each content area.  In addition, programs are aligned with national competencies to provide candidates with the maximum flexibility for licensure in other states.

As candidates progress through programs, they complete key assessments and clinical field work to ensure they have the knowledge, skills, and professional dispositions needed to ensure that all students learn. At key transition points, candidates complete their portfolios and pass certification tests so that they are eligible for certification upon graduation. In addition to the degree, portfolio and certification test requirements, all candidates must clear an Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation background check.

Information about certification procedures are shared with teacher candidates at key points throughout the program.

Online Teacher Certification System and Information
Initial CERTIFICATION process made quick and simple!
Login or Create Account If you are a teacher in need of obtaining your certification, or a teacher candidate - create an account to start the process.

Post-Baccalaureate Initial Certification

NSU is pleased to assist those who may have earned a non-teaching degree and decide to seek certification.  These candidates can often fulfill certification requirements in 18 months or less, depending on the certification area and original degree. A transcript analysis will reveal course work and requirements needed to be a highly qualified and fully prepared teacher.  Those degreed individuals interested in seeking certification should contact the Certification Coordinator, Mrs. Lois Buttress at 918-444-3702 or buttress@nsuok.edu.

Advanced Certification

Pratitioners who already hold an initial teaching certificate may seek certification as a reading specialist, library media specialist, school counselor or school administrator (principal or superintendent). Candidates for these advanced certifications complete requirements as they progress through a master's program or if they hold a master's degree, may seek certification only. All programs are aligned with state and national requirements.

Individuals seeking alternative certification complete that process through the Oklahoma State Department of Education (OSDE). OSDE personnel conduct a transcript analysis to determine eligibility for the program. Applicants must have a 2.5 baccalaureate GPA, a major in a field of study that corresponds to a secondary teaching area (English, math, science, etc.) or K-12 teaching area (art, music, world languages, or physical education) and three years post-baccalaureate work experience in the area of specialization.  Alternatively certified candidates must meet all testing requirements and appear before the Teacher Competency Review Panel.

As of November 1, 2009, applicants may not be alternatively certified in early childhood, elementary, or special education. Those content areas require the recommendation of an approved teacher education program. Please be aware that alternative certification in Oklahoma may not transport across state lines. Check with the receiving state for more information.

For more information about alternative certification, contact NSU's Certification Coordinator, Mrs. Lois Buttress at 918-444-3702 or buttress@nsuok.edu.

State contact for alternatve certification: