Becoming a Certified Teacher in Ontario (Part 2): Starting Right After High School – The Concurrent Program

As we enter the era of AI, many jobs are rapidly evolving—or even disappearing. Roles that involve repetitive or highly systematized tasks are increasingly being replaced by automation. However, professions requiring direct human interaction, such as teaching, remain in steady demand. Teachers are not merely conveyors of information—they nurture emotional intelligence, guide social development, and play a key role in individual growth. That’s something no algorithm can replicate.

In Canada, teaching continues to be seen as a stable and respected profession. In Ontario, in particular, becoming a certified teacher requires registration with the Ontario College of Teachers (OCT). While OCT certification is mandatory for public schools, private schools also tend to prefer candidates with this qualification—a point covered in Part 1 of this series.

So, how does one become a certified teacher in Ontario?

The most common path is through a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed) program. There are two main routes:

1. The Consecutive Program, designed for individuals who have already earned a four-year undergraduate degree. This pathway involves completing a two-year B.Ed program after graduation.

2. The Concurrent Teacher Education Program, the focus of today’s article, is for students who decide early on to pursue teaching. It allows high school graduates to enroll in a five-year program where they earn both an undergraduate degree and a B.Ed simultaneously.

   
   
   
   

What Are the Advantages of the Concurrent Program?

This pathway allows students to begin developing their professional skills from the start of their university studies. By blending undergraduate coursework with teacher training, students gain early exposure to the field and can assess their suitability for a teaching career sooner. Moreover, there are numerous opportunities to gain hands-on experience in real classroom settings.

However, it’s not an easy path. Entry into concurrent programs is competitive. Academic performance and English proficiency are essential, but so are leadership qualities, volunteer work, and previous involvement in educational settings.

Top Ontario Universities Offering Concurrent Programs

Here are some of the major Ontario universities offering Concurrent Teacher Education Programs:

• Queen’s University: Offers BA/BEd, BSc/BEd, and BPHE/BEd streams. Students can pair Arts, Science, or Kinesiology majors with teacher education for either the primary/junior or intermediate/senior levels.

• York University: Offers a BA/BEd program where students pursue majors such as Arts, Fine Arts, or Science alongside their education training.

• Brock University: Provides concurrent B.Ed options combined with majors like Child and Youth Studies, Mathematics, Science, or Physical Education.

• Lakehead University: Offers dual degrees in Arts or Science and Education.

• Trent University: Allows students to combine a BA or BSc with a B.Ed degree.

• Nipissing University: Offers concurrent B.Ed programs alongside majors such as Arts, Science, and Physical Education.

How to Apply

Applications to these programs are submitted through the Ontario Universities’ Application Centre (OUAC). High school seniors or recent graduates are eligible to apply. Each program has a specific OUAC code—for example:

• Queen’s: Arts + B.Ed (QB), Science + B.Ed (QF), Kinesiology + B.Ed (QKF)

• York: BA/BEd (YEW)

Check the OUAC website or university websites for accurate codes and details.

What You’ll Need to Prepare

• Strong Academic Record: Most programs require a minimum average of 85% or higher.

• English Proficiency: International students must demonstrate excellent English skills, particularly in speaking and writing.

• Supplementary Application: Most programs require a personal statement and documentation of relevant experiences—volunteering, leadership, mentoring, or teaching assistance.

• Letters of Recommendation: These should come from teachers or community members who can speak to your potential as an educator.

These additional activities and experiences not only strengthen your application but also offer opportunities to reflect your passion and aptitude for teaching.

In contrast to the Consecutive Program—which is popular among career changers or those deciding on teaching after completing a degree—the Concurrent Program is a fast track for students who want to enter the profession early.

If you're a student aspiring to teach in Canada, it’s crucial to explore both options carefully and start preparing as early as possible. Program requirements and structures vary across institutions, so make sure to consult official university and OUAC websites for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

With clear goals and early planning, you'll be well on your way to building a rewarding career in education.