How Bachelor's Degree Holders Can Become Certified Teachers through the Consecutive Program

With the rapid development of AI technologies, many jobs are disappearing at an unprecedented pace. AI is now capable of handling not only repetitive tasks in manufacturing but also various professional duties in fields such as accounting, design, translation, and even law. Despite this trend, some professions remain irreplaceable—those that require human hands and hearts. Among them, early childhood educators and school teachers stand out.

Teachers do more than just deliver academic content. They play a vital role in shaping students’ character and social skills, mentoring children through their developmental stages, and providing care, counseling, and emergency support—tasks that AI cannot replicate. For these reasons, the demand for teachers remains strong.

In Canada, and particularly in Ontario, the importance of teachers continues to grow. Both public and private schools are seeing a steady rise in teacher recruitment needs, driven by increasing population and the retirement of existing educators. To teach in Ontario’s public schools, you must be certified by the Ontario College of Teachers (OCT)—the official regulatory body designated by the provincial government. While OCT certification is not legally required for private schools, most prefer or prioritize candidates who hold it.

To obtain an OCT certification, candidates must complete a teacher education program at a recognized institution in Ontario, typically referred to as a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) program. Those who already hold a bachelor’s degree can apply for a Consecutive Teacher Education Program, which is specifically designed for degree holders pursuing teaching credentials. This is similar to a graduate-level teacher training program in countries like Korea. In contrast, students who combine their undergraduate studies with teacher education take the Concurrent Program, which we’ll cover in the next column.

Major universities offering teacher education programs include the University of Toronto (OISE), York University, Western University, Queen’s University, the University of Ottawa, Nipissing University, Lakehead University, and Brock University. Since 2015, the program has been extended from one year to two years to enhance training standards. The curriculum includes theoretical foundations of education, teaching methodologies, and mandatory practicum placements in Ontario public schools.

International students are also eligible to apply for these programs. However, the application process is more rigorous, and English proficiency requirements are higher. Most universities require a minimum IELTS score of 7.0 overall, with some schools setting even higher standards. TOEFL iBT scores of 103 or above are also commonly required, especially with strong performance in the Speaking and Writing sections. Given these high standards, it's advisable to begin preparing early. Letters of recommendation also play a significant role in the admissions process.

Applicants with a bachelor's degree from Korea or another country must also undergo academic credential evaluation through an authorized agency such as WES (World Education Services). This process can take two to three months, so it's important to start early. Applications for B.Ed. programs typically open in the fall, with most deadlines falling around December 1. Successful applicants begin their studies in September of the following year and complete the two-year program.

If you already hold a teaching certificate from Korea, it may be possible to convert it into an OCT certification by completing additional coursework. However, this route is often more complex and time-consuming, involving direct communication with OCT and possibly meeting further requirements in English proficiency and teaching practicum. For many, pursuing the standard B.Ed. program is a more straightforward and effective path.

The process of obtaining a teaching certificate involves gathering various documents, and each university has its own set of requirements. Therefore, it's essential to plan ahead and give yourself ample preparation time. In particular, academic credential assessments and language test results can take time to process, so it's wise to get a head start. If you're considering a teaching career in Canada, begin by researching program details and entry requirements for each university carefully. Consulting with a professional agency like World Educational Consulting can also provide valuable support.

We hope this information is helpful to those aspiring to become educators in Ontario.