Online Computer Science Teacher Certification

The program is designed to introduce in-service teachers to foundational concepts, skills and methods for teaching Computer Science (CS) to students in K-12. The program objectives include the following:

• Equip teachers with essential knowledge and skills for the teaching of computer science content in U.S. classrooms.
• Enhance teachers’ understanding of computational thinking and its capacity to unlock students’ potential in computer science.
• Develop teachers’ understandings of the impacts of computing to keep pace with global advancements.
• Create effective, grade appropriate interdisciplinary CS curriculum for K-12 students.
• Design, develop, and assess authentic learning experiences and assessments for deeper learning of CS and computational thinking.

For the Computer Science Teacher Certification (formerly K-12 Computer Science Teaching Certificate), students must complete 15 credit hours.  Courses are offered sequentially during the summer, fall, and spring and can be completed in as little as 3 terms.  For additional information, please contact your advisor to discuss your program of study.

• CSIT 500 – Computer Science Principles (3 credits)
• CSIT 501 – Java Programming (4 credits)
• TLRN 500 – Computational Thinking in K-12 Classrooms (3 credits)
• TLRN 501 – Equity in Computer Science Education (2 credits)
• TLRN 502 – Methods of Inclusive Computer Science Teaching (3 credits)

View the course descriptions and requirements.

The Department of Teaching and Learning has compiled answers to the most frequently asked questions by prospective students. If you are unable to find the answer to your question(s) please contact Montclair Online at [email protected].

In order to be considered for admission into the program please submit:

• An application
  • Summer 2025 applicants will apply to the K-12 Computer Science Teaching (Cert)
• Current resume
• Official copies of the academic transcript from each college and/or university attended, documenting an earned undergraduate degree. Electronic transcripts are recommended to expedite the application process. You can often request this directly from your institution or by using electronic processing through sites such as the National Student Clearinghouse.
• Students holding degrees from non-US institutions must request a course-by-course transcript evaluation from a member of the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services or by Educated Choices. TOEFL (Test of English as a foreign language), IELTS (International English Language Testing System) or Duolingo English Test are required for applicants to any program who earned their degree in a country where English is not the official language. Please check our International Applicants page for more information and for our current TOEFL/IELTS Waiver Policy.