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How to become a teacher in South Dakota
Prep providers
11
Completers
542
Newly licensed
934
Colleges (IPEDS)
27
Credential rules change. Confirm current requirements with South Dakota Department of Education.
Steps drawn from the state's data
- Earn a bachelor's degree. At least one initial credential requires one.
- Complete a teacher preparation program. South Dakota has 11 Title II providers.
- Complete clinical experience such as student teaching.
- Pass the tests the state requires (Title II reports that tests are required, not which ones).
- Complete a background check or fingerprinting.
- Apply to South Dakota Department of Education for an initial credential, such as Educator certificate; Five Year Educator Permit; General Education alternative certificate; One Year Performing Artist Educator Permit.
- Career changers can use one of 1 alternative routes instead of a traditional program.
Teacher preparation providers in South Dakota
| Provider | Program types | Enrollment | Completers |
|---|---|---|---|
| Augustana University SD | Traditional | 110 | 42 |
| Black Hills State University | Traditional | 276 | 82 |
| Dakota State University | Traditional | 154 | 79 |
| Dakota Wesleyan University | Traditional | 61 | 20 |
| Mount Marty College | Traditional | 45 | 26 |
| Northern State University | Traditional | 324 | 55 |
| Oglala Lakota College | Traditional | 123 | 8 |
| Sinte Gleska University | Traditional | 42 | 4 |
| South Dakota State University | Traditional | 312 | 105 |
| University of Sioux Falls | Traditional | 124 | 39 |
| University of South Dakota | Traditional | 336 | 82 |
About teacher preparation in South Dakota
The SD Department of Education has a vision where the department 1) supports local educators, 2) invests in talent development, 3) fosters research and innovation, 4) supports the whole learner, and 5) reinvents
accountability.
To achieve our vision, we defined the four strategic directions we will move in. They are: Maximizing and Building
Relationships, Achieving Effectiveness, Championing Excellence, and Cultivating Our Professional Culture.