Become a Teacher

At George Fox University, we believe that becoming a teacher is about more than simply acquiring the skills and knowledge to teach. Becoming a teacher is a journey of transformation, radically changing the mental and spiritual facets of ourselves. Our faculty and staff strive to walk beside each teaching candidate in this transforming journey, providing support, pointing the way – and sometimes asking the hard questions that can catalyze critical moments of growth.

Is your desire to change lives in the classroom?

Whether you're a recent high school graduate looking for a traditional four-year elementary education degree or a working adult wanting to change career paths, we can help you achieve your goal. Our programs are regionally and nationally accredited, and our graduates have built up an excellent reputation in school districts across our region. Teachers are also in demand right now:

"Mirroring national trends, Oregon is in the midst of a teacher shortage that's sending districts hustling to fill vacancies, especially in areas such as math, science, special education, art, second language and substitute teaching. In some cases, districts have hired by the hundreds and are still planning for substitutes to cover vacancies as school starts."  ( The Oregonian. September 2, 2015. )

How do I become a teacher?

As Oregon's nationally recognized Christian university, faculty and students at George Fox University discuss moral and ethical issues within the context of a Christian worldview. The majority of our teaching licensure candidates teach in public education and are taught to adhere to the constitutional guidelines regarding the separation of church and state. However, like all teachers, they inevitably model their worldview by interacting with students, colleagues and parents in ways that are just and that demonstrate the value of each individual. The context of George Fox University as an independent Christian university enables student to expand their viewpoints and to learn to model their awareness and appreciation for student diversity.

Find out more about the transformational experience of becoming a teacher at George Fox University.