Michigan Guidance Documents
Educator Certificate Types
Michigan Currently Issues the Following Certificates:
• Standard Teaching Certificate
• Two-Year Extended Standard Teaching and Standard CTE Certificates
• Professional Teaching Certificate
• Advanced Professional Teaching Certificate
• Standard CTE Certificate
• Professional CTE Certificate
• Preliminary School Psychologist Certificate
• School Psychologist Certificate
• Temporary Teacher Employment Authorization
• Interim Teaching Certificate
• School Guidance Counselor License
• Temporary School Counselor Authorization
• Preliminary Employment Authorization to work as a School Counselor
• School Administrator Certificate
Michigan no longer issues the following certificates; however, they are still valid for those who hold them and no additional professional learning requirements apply:
• 18-Hour and 30-Hour Continuing Certificate
• Permanent Certificate
• Full Vocational Authorization
Current Validity Levels (Teaching Certificates)
Elementary: An elementary certificate issued after September 1, 1988, is valid for teaching all disciplines grades K-5, all disciplines grades K-8 in a self-contained classroom, and the discipline area endorsement(s) as listed on the certificate, in grades K-8.
Secondary: A secondary certificate issued after September 1, 1988, is valid for teaching discipline area endorsements, as listed on the certificate, in grades 6-12.
Note: Prior to 1988, validity levels included “K-8 All Subjects” and “7-8 All Subjects” designations. These are still valid designations for individuals who hold these certificates.
Additional information regarding appropriate placement of teachers can be found in the Quick Reference: Courses That Can Be Taught and the Proper Placement Considerations documents.
Standard Teaching Certificate Renewal
The Standard Teaching Certificate* is a five-year teaching certificate with unlimited renewals. Each renewal adds five years to the certificate’s validity. A renewal can be requested any time after January 1 of the expiration year.
Requirements: (One of the following)
• 150 hours of education-related professional learning.
• An education-related masters or higher degree earned at any time from a regionally accredited college or university (may be used one time to renew the Standard Teaching Certificate).
• A valid out-of-state teaching certificate (may be used one time to renew the Standard Teaching Certificate).
Education-Related Professional Learning Options:
One of the following education-related professional learning options must be earned since the issue date of the most recent Standard Teaching Certificate or renewal, and they must be entered into Michigan Online Educator Certification System (MOECS) prior to applying for the renewal for the system to recognize your eligibility:
• 6 semester credit hours appropriate to the content and grade level of the certificate and endorsement from a regionally accredited college or university; or
• 6 semester hours in a planned course of study** from a regionally accredited college or university; or
• 150 Michigan State Continuing Education Clock Hours (SCECHs) appropriate to the content and grade level of the certificate and endorsement; or
• 150 hours of Michigan District Provided Professional Development (DPPD) appropriate to the content and grade level of the certificate and endorsement.
• Any combination of the above.
Education-Related Professional Learning Hour Conversion:
• College credit: 1 semester credit = 25 professional learning hours
• SCECH Hours: 1 SCECH hour = 1 professional learning hour
• DPPD Hours: 1 DPPD hour = 1 professional learning hour
*The Standard Teaching Certificate replaces the Provisional Teaching Certificate pursuant to Administrative Rule 390.1101.
**Credits in a planned course of study may include credits taken as part of an education-related master’s or higher degree or credits in a program that leads to an endorsement.
Professional Teaching Certificate Renewal
The Professional Teaching Certificate* is a five-year teaching certificate with unlimited renewals. Each renewal adds five years to the certificate’s validity. A renewal can be requested any time after January 1 of the expiration year.
Requirements: (One of the following)
• Education-related professional learning totaling 150 hours.
• A valid out-of-state certificate, appropriate for K-12 education may be used one time.
Education-Related Professional Learning Options:
One of the following education-related professional learning options must be earned since the issue date of the most recent Professional Teaching Certificate or renewal, and they must be entered into Michigan Online Educator Certification System (MOECS) prior to applying for the renewal for the system to recognize your eligibility:
• 6 semester credit hours appropriate to the content and grade level of the certificate and endorsement from a regionally accredited college or university; or
• 6 semester hours in a planned course of study** from a regionally accredited college or university; or
• 150 Michigan State Continuing Education Clock Hours (SCECHs) appropriate to the content and grade level of the certificate and endorsement; or
• 150 hours of Michigan District Provided Professional Development (DPPD) appropriate to the content and grade level of the certificate and endorsement.
• Any combination of the above.
Education-Related Professional Learning Hour Conversion:
• College credit: 1 semester credit = 25 professional learning hours
• SCECH Hours: 1 SCECH hour = 1 professional learning hour
• DPPD Hours: 1 DPPD hour = 1 professional learning hour
*The Professional Teaching Certificate replaces the Professional Education Certificate pursuant to Administrative Rule 390.1101.
**Credits in a planned course of study may include credits taken as part of an education-related master’s or higher degree or credits in a program that leads to an endorsement.
Progressing to Professional Certificate
Progressing to the Professional Teaching Certificate before July 1, 2018
The Professional Teaching Certificate* is valid for up to 5 years and may be applied for any time requirements are met.
Requirements:
1. 3 years of successful teaching since the issue date of the initial Standard Teaching Certificate, within the content areas and grade level of the Standard Teaching Certificate; and
2. 6 semester credit hours of reading methods course work for elementary teachers and 3 semester credit hours for secondary certified teachers. If you completed your teacher preparation program in Michigan since 1985, you have met this requirement; and
3. 3 semester credit hours of reading diagnostics and remediation, which includes a field experience. This credit can be applied toward the professional learning requirement listed below assuming the credit was earned after the issue date of the most recent certificate or renewal; and
4. Education-related professional learning totaling 150 hours; or
An education-related master’s or higher degree earned at any time (even if previously utilized to renew the Standard Teaching Certificate) from a regionally accredited college or university.
Education-Related Professional Learning Options:
One of the following education-related professional learning options must be earned since the issue date of the most recent Standard Teaching Certificate or renewal, and they must be entered into Michigan Online Educator Certification System (MOECS) prior to applying for the renewal for the system to recognize your eligibility:
• 6 semester credit hours appropriate to the content and grade level of the certificate and endorsement from a regionally accredited college or university; or
• 6 semester hours in a planned course of study** from a regionally accredited college or university; or
• 150 Michigan State Continuing Education Clock Hours (SCECHs) appropriate to the content and grade level of the certificate and endorsement; or
Advanced Professional Teaching Education Certificate
Facts-At-A-Glance:
- The Advanced Professional Teaching Certificate became available starting January 1, 2017
- Valid for up to 5 years and recognizes completion of an approved Teacher Leader program or achieving National Board certification through the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards
- Recognizes highly effective annual evaluation ratings*
- Intended to be an indication of an educator’s advanced skills and training in master teaching and/or teacher leadership
- Can be applied for at any time after receiving the Professional Teaching Certificate (or even after the Professional Certificate’s expiration), as long as the requirements have been met
- Educated-related professional learning is not required for the initial Advanced Professional Teaching Certificate, but are required for all subsequent renewals
- School districts approach assignments and benefits associated with the certificate differently; therefore, we encourage you to talk with your school and district leaders about your district’s approach
Requirements:
- A Professional Teaching Certificate
- Completion of an approved Michigan Teacher Leader program or certification through the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards
- Teacher Leader or National Board designation must be noted on the certificate prior to submitting application for an Advanced Professional Teaching Certificate
- Highly effective ratings for 3 out of the 5 most recent end-of-school-year annual evaluations under MCL 380.1249*
- No ineffective ratings within the 5 most recent end-of-school-year annual evaluations under MCL 380.1249*
*For additional information on educator evaluations and ratings, please visit the educator evaluations website or email questions to MDE-EdEvals@michigan.gov.
Application for Advanced Professional Certificate
- It is also important to verify that the appropriate effectiveness ratings were imported from the Registry of Education Personnel, database the schools use to report educator effectiveness ratings
- Questions regarding the ratings that are viewable (or not viewable) in an individual’s Michigan Online Educator Certification System (MOECS) account should be directed to the employing school or school district
- Once the requirements for the Advanced Professional Teaching Certificate have been met, application is made through the MOECS.
Additional Information
Costs associated with obtaining an Advanced Professional Teaching Certificate
The National Board Teaching Certificate Programs and Teacher Leader programs are fee-based programs. Additionally, the certificate has a state-issued application fee and five-year renewal fees of $210.
Permanent, Life or Continuing Certificate Holders
Holders of these certificates types may select to obtain the Advanced Professional Teaching Certificate. However, unlike the Permanent, Life or Continuing certificates, this certificate requires criteria for renewal every five years. Obtaining this certificate will put the holder on the renewal track requiring professional learning hours every five years.
Preschool or Nonpublic School Teacher Evaluations
The Michigan Department of Education, in coordination with nonpublic and early childhood stakeholders, are working out the details of how this affects Professional certificate holders who are not working in K-12 public schools and wish to progress to an Advanced Professional Teaching Certificate. We hope to provide additional information soon.
Multiple Ratings in a Single Year
The legal language for progressing to an Advanced Professional Certificate states that (in addition to other criteria) an individual must be “…ated as highly effective …or 3 out of the 5 most recent school years [and]…as not been rated ineffective …ithin the 5 most recent school years.” An educator will not be able to progress to the Advanced Professional Certificate if he/she has an ineffective rating. Put simply, the ratings defaults to the lower rating.
National Board Certification
Additional information regarding National Board Certification and how it is recognized in Michigan is available in this guidance document.
Out of State Applicants
Michigan has signed an Interstate Compact Agreement (ICA) with every state agreeing to accept out-of-state teacher preparation programs and teaching certificates on a reciprocal basis for initial certification. However, the terms of the agreement address both traditional teacher preparation programs and alternative route teacher certification programs and each certificate and/or program must be evaluated under the terms of this agreement.
Out-of-state certification programs and credentials may differ from Michigan programs and credentials; however, under the ICA, the Department attempts to match out-of-state certificates, grade levels and content endorsements, as closely as possible.
To determine reciprocity under the ICA, an evaluation must be completed. For this to happen, an application must be submitted using the Michigan Online Educator Certification System (MOECS). MOECS will determine the certificate type (provisional or professional) being applied for based on answers to the application questions. Accurate responses and supporting documentation are required. Reciprocity notwithstanding, Michigan certification is not guaranteed and ancillary state requirements exist in Michigan law (e.g., testing).
STANDARD CERTIFICATE
The Standard Teaching Certificate and the Standard CTE Certificate are the initial certificate issued to teachers who have completed an approved out-of-state teacher preparation program.
Program and Certificate Requirement:
An applicant who has completed a state-approved teacher preparation program including student teaching in another state can submit an application to be evaluated for certification.
OR
An applicant who has completed an alternative route teacher certification program in another state and holds a valid, standard teaching certificate issued based on completion of that program can submit an application to be evaluated for certification. This is not applicable to applicants who have temporary, preliminary, or interim teaching certificates from other states.
Source: NASDTEC Interstate Compact Agreement signed in accordance with Teacher Certification Code R 390.1130 Reciprocity
First Aid and CPR Requirement:
The applicant must also have current training in first aid and child and adult CPR from an approved source such as the American Red Cross or the American Heart Association.
Source: Section 1531d of Public Act 451 (1976) as amended, MCL 380.1531d
Testing Requirement:
After an evaluation of application documents, the applicant will be notified per a MOECS evaluation letter as to what appropriate subject area tests are to be taken via the Michigan Test for Teacher Certification (MTTC) in addition to the basic skills exam.
Beginning October 1, 2017, candidates seeking initial teacher certification through the Michigan Department of Education (MDE) must take the SAT as the basic skills exam unless the candidate meets the alternate testing requirement outlined in the testing guidance document.
Source: Section 1531(3) of Public Act 451 (1976) as amended, MCL 380.1531(3)
Temporary Teacher Employment Authorization:
If the applicant holds a valid, standard teaching certificate from another state, the applicant can be issued a nonrenewable Standard Temporary Teacher Employment Authorization (T2EA) that authorizes his/her employment in a Michigan school for one year. The applicant can be employed as a teacher for a year while working to pass the required tests. Additional time for testing is allowable, but without T2EA validity.
Please note that once the T2EA has been issued, the law requires the passage of the tests and reciprocal evaluation for the Professional Teaching Certificate as the initial Michigan certificate can no longer be provided.
Source: Section 1531(16) of Public Act 451 (1976) as amended, MCL 380.1531(16)
PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATE
If an applicant who has completed an out-of-state approved teacher preparation program and holds a valid, standard teaching certificate from that state and meets all the requirements for the Professional Teaching Certificate or a
Professional CTE Certificate listed below, he/she can be evaluated for the Professional certificate as his/her initial Michigan teaching certificate.
An applicant who qualifies for the Professional certificate as his/her initial Michigan certificate is not required to test.
Planned Program/Degree Requirement:
The applicant must have at least eighteen (18) semester hours in a planned program completed since the issuance of his/her initial, standard teaching certificate or have earned at any time an approved Master’s or higher degree.
Teaching Experience Requirement:
The applicant must have three (3) years of successful teaching experience matching the validity of his/her standard teaching certificate from another state since it was initially issued.
Valid Certificate Requirement:
The applicant must hold a valid standard certificate from another state in the subject area(s) and grade levels for which he/she is seeking Michigan certification.
Reading Methods Requirement:
The applicant must have six (6) semester credit hours of reading methods if elementary certified or three (3) semester credit hours of reading methods if secondary certified.
Source: Section 1531(6) of Public Act 451 (1976) as amended, MCL 380.1531(6)
ADMINISTRATOR CERTIFICATE
An applicant who has completed an out-of-state approved administrator certification program can use the program to submit an application to be evaluated for certification. The application must be submitted to the Michigan Online Educator Certification System (MOECS). Accurate responses and supporting documentation are required to be evaluated.
Out of Country Applicants
If you are a teacher from another country who has completed a teacher preparation program including student teaching outside the United States (U.S.) you may use that program to apply for a Michigan teaching certificate. You do not need to be a U.S. citizen or a Michigan resident to qualify for Michigan teacher certification.
To apply for a Michigan teaching certificate you must use the Michigan Online Educator Certification System (MOECS). On the MOECS homepage under the heading “Educator Applicants” you will find instructions on how to create a login and password to gain initial access MOECS.
If you do not have a U.S. social security number, you will need an identification number to apply. An identification number can be obtained by calling this office at 517-373-3310.
Michigan issues several types of certificates. You will be applying for either the Standard Teaching Certificate or the Professional Teaching Certificate, an advanced level certificate. For similar guidance on obtaining certification in Michigan can be found in the out-of-state applicant guide. MOECS will determine which certificate you are applying for based on your answers to the application questions.
Once you have submitted your application, MOECS will send you an email that explains how to pay the $210.00 application evaluation fee online using a debit or credit card. MOECS will also tell you how to print an application cover letter. The MOECS generated cover letter will have a checklist of the documents you will need to provide and instructions on how to mail the documents to this office.
As a teacher prepared in another country, one of the documents you will have to provide is an original course-by-course evaluation report from a recognized evaluation service (unless you completed a teacher preparation program in Canada and hold a teaching certificate from Ontario, Newfoundland, Quebec or Saskatchewan). The course-by-course evaluation report converts your course work and degree(s) into U.S. standards.
We accept transcripts from three international credential evaluation services. We are not accepting application for additional service providers at this time. Our requirement for all these service providers are as follows:
• non-profit organization;
• members in good standing with National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES).
World Education Services, Inc.
P.O. Box 5087
Bowling Green Station
New York, NY 10274-5087
Telephone: 212-966-6311
Chicago Telephone: 312-222-0882
Fax: 212-739-6120
Email: info@wes.org
International Education Research Foundation, Inc.
P.O. Box 3665
Culver City, CA 90231-3665
Telephone: 310-258-9451
Fax: 310-342-7086
Educational Credential Evaluators, Inc.
P.O. Box 514070
Milwaukee, WI 53203-3470
Telephone: 414-289-3400
Fax: 414-289-3411
Email: eval@ece.org
Once your credentials have been evaluated and it has been determined you meet requirements for a Michigan teaching certificate you will be emailed either an evaluation report that indicates the tests you need to pass from the Michigan Test for Teacher Certification in order for your Standard Teaching Certificate to be issued or a notice that your Professional Teaching Certificate has been issued.
The status of your application can be viewed at any time using the MOECS. MOECS also allows educators to utilize other convenient features relating to their certification, including printing your certificate.
Please note that if you experience difficulty accessing the MOECS from a location outside of the U.S., additional support can be obtained by contacting MOECSSupport@michigan.gov.
Alternate Routes to Teaching Certification and Endorsements
In Michigan, teacher preparation is guided by law, state administrative rules, and teacher preparation program standards. Michigan law and rules require that all individuals complete an approved preparation program (e.g., math, elementary, English) to obtain initial certification or add endorsements to a certificate.
The alternative route to teacher certification is a non-traditional preparation program designed for individuals who hold a minimum of a bachelor’s degree and are seeking to complete an expedited teacher preparation program while employed as a teacher under an Interim Teaching Certificate (ITC). Accordingly, employment in teaching the content area is a pre-requisite to issuing additional certification or endorsement. Individuals may complete this pathway regardless of whether they are seeking initial certification in Michigan or are already certificated and wish to add an additional endorsement. Please note that under law, career and technical education Classifications of Instructional Programs (CIPs), early childhood and special education endorsements are not available through this pathway.
Program Description and Candidate Eligibility
As specified in law (MCL: 380.1531i), alternative route programs approved by the Michigan Department of Education (MDE) and the Michigan Superintendent of Public Instruction (SPI) must include the equivalent of at least 12 semester credit hours and training in the following areas:
• child development or child psychology;
• family and community relationships;
• diverse learners;
• instructional strategies; and
• a form of field-based experience in a classroom setting.
Candidates are eligible for enrollment in an alternative route program if they meet the following legislated selectivity criteria:
1. minimum of bachelor’s degree;
2. 3.0 GPA on 4.0 scale;
3. passage of the Michigan basic skills examination;
4. passage of the appropriate discipline area Michigan Test(s) for Teacher Certification;
5. CPR/First Aid certification (MCL 380.1531d); and
6. Federal Background Check (R 390.1201).
All state-approved alternative route programs can be found using the MDE approved program database. Please contact providers directly for additional information about program coursework, requirements and application procedures.
Interim Teaching Certificate (ITC)
The ITC is a Michigan-issued teaching certificate that entitles the holder to teach full-time in a Michigan school as the teacher of record. The ITC is a 5-year certificate; validity begins the month of issuance and expires on June 30 of the expiration year. This certificate can only be issued once, and under no circumstances be renewed. Additionally, once the certificate is issued no additional endorsements may be added to it.
In order to maintain the ITC, an individual must continue to be enrolled in the alternative route preparation program. If an individual withdraws from an alternative route, an alternative route preparation program must notify the MDE. In addition, the alternative route preparation program must notify the K-12 school in which the individual is teaching to inform them that the individual may no longer by placed in a K-12 teaching assignment under the ITC. Should the K-12 school wish to retain the individual as a teacher, the school administrator must apply to the MDE for a substitute permit.
To progress the ITC to a Standard Teaching Certificate or to add the endorsements from an ITC to an existing certificate, an individual must:
1. have successfully completed the entire alternative route program, successfully completing all key assessments;
2. have taught successfully for three years, within the validity of their endorsement areas (a minimum of 12 weeks per endorsement area);
3. make application for certification within the Michigan Online Educator Certification System (MOECS); and
4. be recommended by the alternative route provider.
Additional Information
Ideally, an alternative route to teacher certification is a collaborative effort between the teacher candidate, preparation provider, and K-12 school district. All three should work together to support the candidate in learning to teach, while ensuring K-12 learners’ growth and development.
There are two paths that may lead an individual to the alternative route program and ITC:
1. the individual has a job opportunity and is seeking certification/endorsement in that area; or
2. the individual seeks certification or an additional endorsement to increase employment opportunities.
An individual who does not hold appropriate certification or endorsement for an assignment for which they would like to be employed should work with the employer to fully understand the options for obtaining certification/endorsement.
Individuals without an employment opportunity should work with an approved alternative route program provider to investigate regional job markets and needed content areas and to secure employment.
School Counselor License
In-State Applicants:
Applicants who are enrolled in a school counselor program at an approved Educator Preparation Institution will be evaluated for eligibility of a School Counselor License (SCL) by the in-state university certification officer. An evaluation for a school counselor credential may lead to an applicant initially being recommended for a Preliminary Employment Authorization to Work as a School Counselor and subsequently a SCL. The SCL is valid for 5 years and is issued to candidates who have fulfilled all Michigan institutional and academic requirements, including the following:
- Completion of at least 30 graduate level semester hours in an approved schoolcounselor education program; and
- All program requirements including an internship of not less than 600 clock hoursbased on an approved school counselor program in a school district under thesupervision of a credentialed school counselor or a school counselor educator. Atleast 300 of the 600 clock hours shall be in a school setting; and
- Passage of the Michigan Test for Teacher Certification (MTTC) School Counselorexamination.
Out-of-State Applicants:
Applicants who complete all requirements of an approved, out-of-state school counselor education program and/or fulfilled other requirements are evaluated for a School Counselor License (SCL) by the Michigan Department of Education (MDE), Office of Professional Preparation Services.
This license is valid for 5 years and is issued to candidates who have fulfilled all out-of-state institutional and academic requirements applicable to being evaluated by MDE for a Michigan SCL, including:
- Applicant completed a Master’s degree or higher in a school counselor educator program including internship in a school setting at an out-of-state university or its equivalency OR
- Applicant has earned a Bachelor’s degree AND has successfully worked out-of- state as a school counselor 5 out of the immediately preceding 7 years, plus holdsa valid school counselor certificate/license issued by another state.
- Passage of the Michigan Test for Teacher Certification (MTTC) School Counselorexamination is required.
Additional information on SCL renewals is also available.
Out of State Temporary School Counselor Authorization
The Temporary School Counselor Authorization (TSCA) is an interim credential for applicants who have completed all requirements of an out-of-state, approved school counselor educator program or its equivalency, including an internship in a school setting. Applicants who receive this authorization are seeking an initial Michigan School Counselor License (SCL).
Upon issuance of the TSCA applicants are eligible to be hired to work as a school counselor within a K-12 school while completing Michigan testing required for issuance of the SCL.
The TSCA is valid for one year and is non-renewable.
Criteria:
Those who complete an advanced degree program including an internship in a school setting via an approved school counselor education program may be evaluated for a TSCA. Applicants who earn a Bachelor degree and have 5 years of successful experience out of the immediate preceding 7 years, serving as a school counselor and who hold a valid out of state school counselor certificate may be eligible for the TSCA.
Applicants who receive the TSCA authorization are evaluated for certification by the Office of Professional Preparation Services of the Michigan Department of Education (MDE) but have yet to take and pass the Michigan Test for Teacher Certification (MTTC) School Counselor examination.
Application Process:
Applicants submit an application for a School Counselor License by accessing the Michigan Online Educator Certification System (MOECS). MDE will evaluate individuals for eligibility of the TSCA after an application is submitted online, the application processing fee has been paid and all supporting application documents have been received by the Office of Professional Preparation Services.
Note:
In MOECS applicants will need to select they are submitting an application for a SCL. As part of the application process a series of questions will need to be answered. The answers provided by the applicant are used in the evaluation process to determine an applicant’s eligibility to be issued the TSCA.
Preliminary School Counselor Authorization
This Authorization is an interim credential for applicants exclusively enrolled in an in-state approved Educator Preparation Institution (EPI) completing a school counselor endorsement program, a School Counselor License (SCL) or both. In-state university applicants are to seek the consultation of their university advisor for questions regarding eligibility of the Preliminary Employment Authorization to Work as a School Counselor.
Upon issuance of this credential, individuals are eligible to be hired by a Michigan school district to serve as a school counselor.
The Preliminary Employment Authorization to Work as a School Counselor is valid for 3 years and is non-renewable.
Criteria:
Applicants who complete a minimum of 30 semester credit hours in an in-state counselor education program and who pass the School Counselor examination on the Michigan Test for Teacher Certification (MTTC) may be recommended for a Preliminary Employment Authorization to Work as a School Counselor by a Michigan EPI that has approval to prepare individuals to work in the field of school counseling.
Individuals are expected to complete the remainder of any coursework, including practicum or internship in order to be recommended for a school counselor endorsement on a Michigan teaching certificate, a SCL or both, during the validity of this authorization.
Application Process:
All applicants submit an application on the Michigan Online Educator Certification System (MOECS). In-state university enrollee applications will electronically be sent to the (EPI) to assess eligibility for approval of the Preliminary Employment Authorization to Work as A School Counselor.
Note:
On the Michigan Online Educator System (MOECS) applicants will need to select they are applying for an endorsement or the School Counselor License. If seeking both credential types in-state applicants will need to submit two different application fees and apply for each credential separately.
School Psychologist Certification
A person employed as a school psychologist in a Michigan school is required to hold a valid Michigan School Psychologist Certificate or a Preliminary School Psychologist Certificate.
An application for a School Psychologist Certificate or Preliminary School Psychologist Certificate is created through the Michigan Online Educator Certification System (MOECS).
Preliminary School Psychologist Certificate (R 380.204 & 380.205) Valid for 3 years and available to individuals who meet the following requirements:
1. Complete a graduate degree in an approved school psychology certification program (no less than 45 semester credit hours); and
2. Complete a 600 clock-hour, supervised practicum in school psychology; and
3. Possess a valid out-of-state school psychologist certificate or license if the school psychologist program was completed in another state.
Preliminary School Psychologist Renewal (R 380.204 & 380.205) A one-time, 3-year renewal may be granted upon application and verification of one of the following:
• Six (6) semester credit hours in an approved school psychologist program from an Educator Preparation Institution. The credit must be completed since the issue date of the preliminary psychology certificate; or
• A valid, out-of-state school psychologist certificate.
School Psychologist Certificate (R 380.206) Valid for 5 years and available to individuals who meet the following requirements:
1. Possess a current or expired Preliminary School Psychologist Certificate; and
2. Complete a state-approved specialist-level degree or the equivalent (no less than 60 semester credit hours) in school psychology with a 1200 clock-hour internship from an Educator Preparation Institution (EPI).
An out-of-state applicant may qualify for a School Psychologist Certificate (R 380.206), valid for 5 years, as an initial certificate if the individual meets the following requirements:
1. Complete a specialist-level degree or the equivalent (no less than 60 semester credit hours) in school psychology with a 1200 clock-hour internship from an out-of-state Educator Preparation Institution; and
2. Possess a valid Nationally Certified School Psychologist (NCSP) credential issued by the National Association of School Psychologists, (NASP) or a valid, standard school psychologist certificate from the state where the program was completed.
School Psychologist Renewal (R 380.206) Valid for 5 years and renewable using one of the following options:
Option A: One of the following Education-related professional learning options completed since the issue date of the most recent school psychology certificate or renewal and logged into MOECS:
• 6 semester credit hours appropriate for performing the roles of a school psychologist from a regionally accredited college or university; or
• 150 Michigan State Continuing Education Clock Hours (SCECHs) appropriate for performing the roles of a school psychologist; or
• 150 hours of Michigan District Provided Professional Development (DPPD) appropriate for performing the roles of a school psychologist.
• Any combination of the above equaling 150 hours.
Option B: A valid Michigan Professional Teaching Certificate.
Option C: A valid Nationally Certified School Psychologist (NCSP) credential.
Option D: A valid out-of-state school psychologist certificate (within five years preceding the application for renewal). Option D is for a one-time renewal only.
Education-Related Professional Learning Hour Conversion:
• College credit: 1 semester credit = 25 professional learning hours
• SCECH Hours: 1 SCECH hour = 1 professional learning hour
• DPPD Hours: 1 DPPD hour = 1 professional learning hour
All applications for initial certification and renewal are submitted through MOECS. Here are instructions for creating an initial MOECS account and checking your application status in MOECS after an application has been created. If you use District Provided Professional Development to renew your school psychologist certificate, you will need to have the DPPD form completed by your employing district.
School Administrator Certificate Requirements
School administrators whose primary responsibility is administering instructional programs must hold a valid School Administrator Certificate. This includes the following positions:
• Superintendent
• Principal
• Assistant Principal
• Chief Business Official
Requirements for standard School Administrator Certification:
Building Level Administrator:
• Completion of an approved master’s degree or higher in educational leadership or administration earned at any regionally accredited college or university.
Central Office Administrator:
• Possession of a master’s or higher degree.
• Completion of at least 21 semester credit hours at the post-master’s degree level earned at any regionally accredited college or university. The program must include advanced studies in K-12 school administration.
Michigan approved School Administrator Certificate preparation programs can be found the within the Michigan Department of Education’s searchable program database.
Experience-Based School Administrator Certification:
An individual hired as a school administrator on or before January 4, 2010, is not required to hold the Administrator Certificate for their current position at this time. They must, however, meet and maintain the education-related professional learning requirements described in the School Administrator Certificate Renewal guidance document.
Beginning September 1, 2018 school administrators authorized and employed under the experience-based provision in Michigan Compiled Law (MCL) 380.1246(1)(a) will be required to hold the new Experience-Based School Administrator Certificate or obtain the School Administrator Permit.
Under MCL 380.1246(3) a non-certified person who was not hired as an administrator on/or before January 4, 2010 and does not hold the standard School Administrator Certificate, may be hired to fill a school administrator position if the following requirements are met:
• The individual must, within 6 months of their hire date, enroll in a program leading to certification as a school administrator. Enrollment must be verified by the provider and include evidence of payment of enrollment fees.
• The program must be completed and certification must be issued within 3 years.
Beginning September 1, 2018 administrators hired and employed without certification must obtain the School Administrator Permit while they meet the requirements MCL 380.1246(3).
Note: No extensions are available or provided for in law.
Administrator Certificate Renewal Requirements
The School Administrator Certificate is a five-year certificate with unlimited renewals. Each renewal adds five years to the certificate’s validity. A renewal can be requested any time after January 1 of the expiration year.
Requirements: (One of the following)
• Education-related professional learning totaling 150 hours.
• A valid out-of-state certificate, appropriate for K-12 administration may be used one time.
Education-Related Professional Learning Options:
One of the following education-related professional learning options must be earned since the issue date of the most recent School Administrator Certificate or renewal, and they must be entered into Michigan Online Educator Certification System (MOECS) prior to applying for the renewal for the system to recognize your eligibility:
• 6 semester credit hours appropriate to the content and grade level of the certificate and endorsement from a regionally accredited college or university; or
• 6 semester hours in a planned course of study** from a regionally accredited college or university; or
• 150 Michigan State Continuing Education Clock Hours (SCECHs) appropriate to the content and grade level of the certificate and endorsement; or
• 150 hours of Michigan District Provided Professional Development (DPPD) appropriate to the content and grade level of the certificate and endorsement.
• Any combination of the above.
Education-Related Professional Learning Hour Conversion:
• College credit: 1 semester credit = 25 professional learning hours
• SCECH Hours: 1 SCECH hour = 1 professional learning hour
• DPPD Hours: 1 DPPD hour = 1 professional learning hour
NOTE: A school administrator who holds a valid Michigan Professional Education Certificate shall be considered as meeting the professional learning requirement upon evaluation.
**Credits in a planned course of study may include credits taken as part of an education-related master’s or higher degree or credits in a program that leads to an endorsement.
Initial MOECS Instructions
MOECS Login and Access
The Michigan Online Educator Certification System (MOECS) is available to educators who hold a valid or expired Michigan certificate or who wish to apply for a Michigan certificate.
To create an account go to: https://www.michigan.gov/moecs.
1. On that page, click on the big blue box that says “Click here to go to the MOECS login page.”
2. Click on “Login Assistance.”
3. Enter your first and last name and the last 4 digits of your social security number. MOECS will determine you do not have an account and you will be redirected to create one.
4. PRINT YOUR CONFIRMATION PAGE TO RETAIN VITAL LOG-IN INFORMATION!
5. Return to the MOECS access page.
6. Click on the big blue box that says “Click here to go to the MOECS login page”.
If you are having trouble logging into MOECS please keep in mind that your password is case sensitive, is at least 8 characters, and contains at least one uppercase letter and either one number or one special character.
7. Once logged in you must register. Answer the first question: “Would you like to register as:”
8. Choose the appropriate option: e.g. Educator.
9. Complete the first part of the registration and save.
10. Log out and log back in.
11. Answer the security question.
12. Complete the second part of the registration and save.
Congratulations! You now have access to MOECS. Blue navigation buttons will appear in the left menu providing you with many convenient features.
Detailed instructions are also available here.
Logging DPPD
DPPD: Logging It into MOECS
District Provided Professional Development (DPPD) is the professional development offered by a Local Education Agency (LEA) in order to fulfill the requirements of Michigan Compiled Law (MCL) Section 380.1527. This legislation requires LEAs to offer five (5) days of teacher professional development annually. Public or non-public schools, public school academies, or intermediate school districts can offer DPPD.
DPPD is logged into the Michigan Online Educator Certification System (MOECS) as part of the application process for certificate renewal or progression to the Professional Teaching Certificate. To enter your DPPD and apply for certification, complete the following steps:
1. Log into your MOECS account.
2. Click on the “View Professional Learning” navigation button on the left side of the screen and then the “District Provided PD” tab.
3. Enter each DPPD activity and complete all required information. Before you enter the DPPD ensure that each item meets ALL of the following criteria:
A category for the DPPD must be selected; pick the one that seems most applicable.
The title of the DPPD MUST be specific. DPPD that is identified as “PD,” “Professional Learning,” or a similar generic term will be disqualified.
DPPD must have been earned within the prior 5 years of the application and after the issue date on the most recently issued certificate.
DPPD must be appropriate for the endorsements and grade levels of the certificate.
If you are employed by a nonpublic school, and that school is not in the drop-down school selection field, it means the private school has NOT agreed to allow education-related professional learning to be used as DPPD. Educators should contact the school/district for additional information.
4. Click the “Totals” tab to verify the professional learning (college credits, State Continuing Education Clock Hours [SCECHs], and/or DPPD) in the system meets the 150 hour requirement.
5. Print the log of DPPD hours you entered in MOECS using your computer’s print screen function.
6. Complete your section of the District Provided Professional Development form. This is the only form that may be used to verify DPPD. This form is available in MOECS.
7. Attach the DPPD form for the appropriate school year to the DPPD log(s) printed from MOECS in Step 5.
8. Delete any DPPD that the district will not verify with a signature/initials. Ensure that the total still reaches 150.
9. Submit the DPPD form with the DPPD log(s) to your Principal/School Designee for the required verification and signature. It is your responsibility to consult with your school district on the appropriate person to sign the DPPD form and initial the DPPD log(s). A private/non-public school that has not agreed in writing to have their DPPD audited CANNOT sign off on your form.
You will be asked to submit the signed DPPD form and initialed DPPD log(s) to the Office of Professional Preparation Services during the application process if you are progressing to the Professional Teaching or the Professional CTE certificate.
If you are renewing a Professional Teaching, Professional CTE, School Counselor, School Psychologist Certificate, or School Administrator Certificate, you will retain the DPPD form and DPPD log(s) in case of audit.
10. You may not apply to progress/renew your certificate until the DPPD form has been signed and the DPPD log(s) have been initialed by your school district. The application for progressing/renewing a certificate is found by clicking on the navigation button on the left entitled “Apply or Renew” in MOECS. Then, click on the drop-down and select “Teacher Certificate or Renewal of Teaching Certificate” and continue completing the application. Print the applicant cover sheet as directed and submit the required documentation for educators progressing to a Professional/CTE certificate.
11. Once the application has been submitted, you will receive an email with a link to pay for your certificate with a credit/debit card. You can monitor the status of your certificate using MOECS.
12. Individuals progressing to a Professional Teaching or Professional CTE certificate, will be placed in line to be evaluated after paying and submitting the required documentation. When the evaluation is completed, an email notification requesting additional documentation OR approving the application will be sent. Once approved, the certificate can be printed in MOECS by clicking on the navigation button entitled “Print Certificate.”
12. Individuals renewing a Professional Teaching, Professional CTE, School Counselor, School Psychologist Certificate, or School Administrator Certificate, can print the certificate in MOECS immediately after submission by clicking on the navigation button entitled “Print Certificate”. Please retain your professional learning records for audit purposes.
All certificates must be signed and notarized by a Notary Public before they become valid.
Criteria for Accurate Teacher Application Documentation
District Provided Professional Development Documentation
District Provided Professional Development (DPPD) obtained through a Michigan public school/school district or public school academy may be used to renew all Michigan certificate types.
Educators employed in non-public schools wishing to use DPPD must contact their employer directly to discuss their options. Non-public school employees may use DPPD if the non-public school agrees to meet the criteria outlined in the February 24, 2015 memorandum and also agrees to auditing and documentation requirements using the Non-public District Provided Professional Development OPT-In/Out form.
All DPPD hours must be verified and approved by an educator’s Principal/School Designee before the hours can be used for certificate renewal. Educator’s must obtain the District Provided Professional Development Form and follow the instructions carefully for accurate submission.
Please note: Forms are updated regularly as requirements change. It is important to use the most up-to-date form. This can be accomplished by retrieving the form each time you renew directly from your MOECS account.
Work Experience Documentation
Teaching experience is required when progressing to the next level teaching certificate and must be documented on the “Teaching - Work Experience” form. This form is located in your MOECS account under the “Forms” bar in the left navigation menu.
The “Teaching - Work Experience” form must be filled out completely, with the appropriate signatures, by the employing school. The educator service rating at the bottom of the form must also be completed. Third party substitute agencies may not complete this form.
Please note that the status of your application can be viewed at any time using the MOECS. MOECS also allows educators to utilize other convenient features relating to certification, including the printing of a certificate.
Checking for Application Status
Status of My Application
Once you have applied for an initial Michigan certificate/license, renewal of a Michigan certificate/license, or an additional endorsement, you can check the status of your application by logging into your account within the Michigan Online Educator Certification System at: www.michigan.gov/moecs.
1) Login to MOECS
If you are unable to gain access your account, please click Login Assistance.
2) Once you have confirmed and/or updated your demographics, you will be directed to your Home Page.
3) Your Home Page will include all your pending certificate applications and the status of each.
4) You will see one of the following status indications:
**Please note that January, as well as May through August, are our busiest times of year. Additional time for processing may be required during these busy months.
Reading Course Requirements for Michigan Teacher Certification
Michigan’s Teacher Certification Code contains two distinct requirements in the teaching of reading that all teachers must complete, one of which must be completed prior to earning an initial standard teaching certificate, and the other of which must be completed prior to advancing to a professional teaching certificate.
Reading Methods Requirements for Standard Teaching Certification
In order to be recommended for an initial elementary provisional teaching certificate, teacher candidates must complete six (6) credit hours in the teaching of reading. In order to be recommended for an initial secondary provisional teaching certificate, teacher candidates must complete three (3) credit hours in reading instruction as appropriate to the content area in which they are seeking an endorsement. These requirements are set forward in R390.1123(2) of the Teacher Certification Code. Standards for the elementary and secondary coursework are available on the Michigan Department of Education website. Teacher candidates who complete an approved alternative route program to teacher certification have satisfied this requirement.
Reading Diagnosis/Remediation Requirements for Professional Teaching Certification
In order to advance to a Professional Teaching Certificate, teachers must satisfactorily (grade of C or better or the equivalent) complete an additional three (3) credit approved course of study in the diagnosis and remediation of reading disabilities and differentiated instruction. This requirement is set forward in R390.1132(4) of the Teacher Certification Code, and Michigan Compiled Law 380.1531(4) provides additional details on the content that this course of study must cover. The Office of Professional Preparation Services (OPPS) maintains a list of approved courses offered by Michigan colleges and universities to satisfy this requirement. While it is possible to complete this requirement through an out-of-state institution, the OPPS only approves and maintains a directory of courses from Michigan educator preparation providers. The OPPS does not approve courses from out-of-state institutions, but rather requires teachers who complete a course of study offered by an out-of-state provider to submit a verification form signed by an appropriate authority at the provider attesting that particular courses completed by candidates for a professional certificate meet Michigan’s requirements for this course of study.
Locating Your Personal Identification Code (PIC)
If you have a Michigan Online Educator Certification System (MOECS) account and you need your PIC.
1) Login to MOECS
2) Using the Navigation Menu “Manage Demographics” on the left side of the screen, move to the “Personal Information” screen. If you have a PIC it will be located adjacent to the PIC Field.
If “Not Available” populates your PIC value, MOECS does not have a PIC for this account. You will need to contact MOECSSupport@Michigan.gov.
Adding an Endorsement to a Valid Teaching Certificate
An endorsement can be added to a Michigan teaching certificate by way of one of the following paths:
1) Complete a state-approved endorsement program with at least 20 semester credit hours of coursework through a state-approved Educator Preparation Program (EPP). The program can be completed through a Michigan institution, an Michigan approved alternative route program, or an institution located in another state.
2) Complete another state’s approved endorsement program with less than 20 semester credit hours of coursework and hold the endorsement on a valid, standard out-of-state teaching certificate.
3) Successfully teach in another state within the endorsement area for a minimum of three years since adding the endorsement to the out-of-state certificate. Note: The out-of-state teaching certificate must be valid during the three years of successful teaching experience, but does not have to be valid at the time of application.
An application to add an endorsement to a valid Michigan teaching certificate is created through the Michigan Online Educator Certification System (MOECS).
Teachers who have completed endorsement programs at Michigan institutions must work directly with their certification officer to ensure the application is processed correctly.
Teachers who have completed out-of-state endorsement programs will be evaluated by the Office of Professional Preparation Services (OPPS). Applicants must satisfy all the requirements for the endorsement and pass the Michigan Test for Teacher Certification (MTTC) endorsement test before the endorsement can be added to the Michigan teaching certificate. Teachers are not encouraged to take the MTTC until the OPPS evaluation is completed and an evaluation report is issued indicating the test that must be passed. The cost of an evaluation is $50 and does not guarantee the endorsement will be approved.
Michigan teachers may work in subject area(s) or grade levels outside of what are listed on their certificate only under the system of permits available to the school that employs them.
Return to: