How to Get a Primary Level IB Teacher Certification Online

Teachers at International Baccalaureate schools work in a collaborative setting using a curriculum that integrates the exploration of interdisciplinary themes to enhance student learning of academic subjects. To participate in the IB primary program, you must have an IB Teacher Award from the International Baccalaureate World Schools. Completing an IB teacher certification course at an approved university is mandatory for acquiring a Teacher Award as an IB primary program teacher. Only one of the four approved schools in the United States offers its coursework completely online. The others provide a combination of online and on-campus coursework that allow you to continue working while you accrue the credits needed for certification.

Things You'll Need

• Undergraduate degree
• Transcripts

Instructions

1. Review the list of approved schools for primary program IB certification. The four schools in the U.S. are located in California, Michigan, Minnesota and Virginia. Bethel University in Minnesota is the only school with a fully online option. A certificate from schools located in other English-speaking countries may not be transferrable.

2. Compare the course descriptions for the U.S.-based IB schools. Although each school has IB-approved courses for their IB primary program certification classes, the courses you take are different. The prerequisites may also differ, even if you already have an undergraduate degree in education.

3. Consider the structure of the certificate program at each school. The length of time to complete the certification courses varies and the number of required courses is different, depending on the school. One school requires a year of teaching in an IB school before you can apply for the Award from IB. The Bethel University certification program takes five months, while the other options require 10 to 18 months.

4. Review each school’s teaching methodology and faculty credentials. One school mixes online sessions with a required on-campus summer course. Another offers online sessions with required weekend sessions and attendance at a summer institute. Two provide one course at a time and place you in a learning cohort until you complete the online program.

5. Evaluate each school’s options for applying your IB certificate courses to an advanced degree. If you eventually intend to pursue an advanced degree, select the school that has the master's option that fits your professional development goals. Each school lets you apply your IB courses to a master’s degree, but not all are in education.

6. Compare the tuition costs and mandatory fees. You can avoid paying out-of-state tuition for online courses at each school, but you may pay additional fees for technology access.

7. Narrow your choice down and select the school that offers the IB primary program that suits your personal situation and learning style. Request application forms and information on financial aid if you need assistance with tuition. Submit your current transcript, existing licensure for teaching and work history for evaluation.

8. Follow the instructions given on how to complete your degree.

Tips & Warnings

• The hybrid IB courses that require in-person or on-campus sessions might not be convenient if you select a program that makes it necessary for you to travel out of state.

References

• International Baccalaureate World Schools: Find a Course of Study
• Bethel University: Certificate in International Baccalaureate Education
• Cal State San Marcos: Extended Learning -- Global Teacher Studies
• George Mason University: ADIB Program Schedules
• Oakland (Michigan) University: IB Teacher Award, Graduate Certificate in IB Education

Resources

• International Baccalaureate World Schools: Teachers