Oklahoma · Career guide

How to become a Science Teacher in Oklahoma

Science teachers cover biology, chemistry, physics, earth science, and (increasingly) integrated NGSS-aligned curricula. Like math, secondary science is on most state shortage lists — physics and chemistry endorsements especially. Lab management, safety certification, and inquiry-based instruction are core craft skills the role demands.

See 26 science teaching jobs open in Oklahoma →

Certification path in Oklahoma

  1. Earn a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. Most candidates complete a teacher-preparation program either as part of their undergraduate studies or as a post-baccalaureate add-on.
  2. Pass the required exams. Oklahoma typically requires:
    • Oklahoma General Education Test (OGET) — Basic reading, writing, and mathematics skills
    • Oklahoma Subject Area Tests (OSAT) — Content knowledge for your certification area
    • Oklahoma Professional Teaching Examination (OPTE) — Professional knowledge and pedagogy

    Science endorsements are often broken out (biology, chemistry, physics, integrated science). Each may require its own content exam.

  3. Apply for your initial license through Oklahoma State Department of Education. The packet typically includes official transcripts, exam scores, a background check, and (depending on the state) a recommendation from the teacher-prep program. Visit Oklahoma State Department of Education →
  4. Job-search in Oklahoma.Browse current science teaching openings across Oklahoma districts. Apply directly to each district's careers page — no platform fees.

Alternative pathways in Oklahoma

If you didn't follow the traditional university-route, Oklahoma offers these alternate paths that may apply to your situation:

  • Alternative Placement Certification: Teach with an emergency certificate while completing coursework
  • Teach For America (active in Tulsa and Oklahoma City)
  • Career and Technical Education certification
  • District-sponsored alternative programs

Oklahoma salary context

Average teacher salary in Oklahoma: $53,088/year (rank #48 nationally). Entry-level pay with a bachelor's typically starts at $36,000/year.

Role-specific premiums vary by district — special education, STEM, and bilingual roles frequently command signing bonuses or stipends. See the full Oklahoma salary guide for the breakdown.

Full Oklahoma certification guideAll license tiers, alt routes, and reciprocity from other states.Oklahoma salary guidePay schedule, COL context, top-paying districts.Oklahoma teacher shortageWhich subjects are in shortage status — and the loan-forgiveness eligibility.