Texas, like many other states, faces a persistent shortage of qualified STEM educators, and chemistry is one of the hardest-hit subject areas.

In response, the Texas Education Agency (TEA) has implemented pathways to fast-track teacher certification, yet the demand for fully certified, passionate chemistry teachers continues to grow.

According to the TEA, thousands of uncertified teachers were hired in 2021–22 to bridge critical gaps in classrooms, 8,435 to be exact, with nearly 800 granted emergency permits. This means that aspiring educators, especially in high-need areas like chemistry, have strong opportunities to secure full-time teaching roles with long-term career potential.

If you’re passionate about chemistry and want to make a difference in students’ lives, becoming a certified chemistry teacher in Texas is a path worth considering.

Why Become a Chemistry Teacher?

Chemistry is fundamental to understanding the world around us.

From the food we eat and the air we breathe to the medicines we take. It plays a crucial role in driving innovation across various sectors, including healthcare, energy, and technology.

Despite its significance, many U.S. schools face persistent challenges in chemistry education due to a shortage of qualified teachers. According to the American Chemical Society (ACS), only 36.8% of public school chemistry teachers have both a major and certification in chemistry, and just 48.2% majored in chemistry in college. This indicates a substantial gap in subject-specific expertise among chemistry educators. ​

Furthermore, a 2023 report by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) found that physical science positions, which include chemistry, are among the most difficult teaching positions to fill in U.S. public schools. This shortage creates a strong demand in the job market and presents a meaningful opportunity for aspiring educators to make a tangible impact on students’ academic and career trajectories.​

The ACS emphasizes that investing in chemistry education is vital for strengthening the nation’s STEM pipeline. By preparing and inspiring students through comprehensive chemistry instruction, educators can help ensure a skilled workforce ready to tackle challenges in critical fields such as healthcare, energy, and technology. ​

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Become a Chemistry Teacher in Texas

Step 1: Earn a bachelor’s degree in chemistry

The first step is to pursue a bachelor’s degree in chemistry or a closely related field, such as biochemistry or chemical engineering, from an accredited college or university in Texas. This foundational education will prepare you with both the theoretical and practical knowledge needed to teach the subject effectively.

Step 2: Enroll in an Educator Preparation Program (EPP)

Once your degree is complete, you’ll need to join an Educator Preparation Program (EPP), a required step on the path to certification in Texas. Most EPPs take between 12 and 24 months to complete, depending on your background and program format.

EPPs combine academic coursework with real-world classroom experience, usually through internships or student teaching placements. These programs are available at many universities, but they are also offered online or through alternative certification routes for individuals who already hold a degree.

Teacher Builder is one such EPP. Approved by the Texas Education Agency (TEA), it offers a flexible, fully online alternative certification program that also offers you support through the first year of teaching. With Teacher Builder, you can pursue your dream career on your schedule, all while gaining practical experience in a classroom setting.

Step 3: Take the required certification exams

After completing your educator preparation program, the next step is to pass the required certification exams through the Texas Educator Certification Examination Program (TExES). These exams evaluate your teaching skills and subject-matter expertise.

You’ll need to take the following:

• Pedagogy and Professional Responsibilities (PPR) EC–12 (160) – This is a mandatory exam for all first-time Texas teaching candidates. It covers classroom management, instructional design, student development, and professional responsibilities. The test includes 100 selected-response questions.
• Chemistry 7–12 (240) – This exam is required for those seeking certification to teach chemistry at the secondary level (grades 7–12). It includes topics such as atomic structure, chemical bonding, reactions, thermodynamics, and scientific inquiry.

You can register, schedule your exams, and access official prep resources through the TExES website.

Step 4: Apply for your Texas educator certification

Once you’ve successfully completed your EPP and passed the certification exams, it’s time to apply for your standard teaching certificate.

Start by creating a TEAL (Texas Educator Access Login) account on the TEA website. Through this account, you’ll fill out your certification application and pay the associated fees via the ECOS (Educator Certification Online System) portal.

Step 5: Complete fingerprinting and background check

All applicants for educator certification in Texas are required to complete a national criminal background check, which includes fingerprinting.

After you’ve submitted your certification application and payment through the Educator Certification Online System (ECOS), the Texas Education Agency (TEA) will pre-enroll you for fingerprinting with the state’s approved vendor, MorphoTrust/IdentoGO.

You’ll then receive an email with instructions on how to schedule your fingerprinting appointment.

Here’s what to expect:

• Total cost: $49.00
• $39.00 is paid through ECOS at the time of your application
• $10.00 is paid directly to MorphoTrust/IdentoGO when scheduling your appointment
• You must bring a valid, government-issued photo ID (such as a driver’s license or passport) to your appointment.

Fingerprinting results are typically available within 5–7 business days and can be viewed in your ECOS account under “Fingerprinting Status.”

Step 6: Begin applying for chemistry teaching positions

Once certified, you’re ready to apply for teaching jobs. Chemistry, being a critical shortage subject, is frequently listed on TEA’s teacher shortage areas list. This means many Texas districts are actively hiring chemistry educators and may offer hiring incentives or loan forgiveness for those in high-need areas.

Check the TEA’s Educator Job Sites page for district listings, or visit school district websites directly to explore job openings and submit your applications.

Emergency Permits for Chemistry Teachers in Texas

In case you’re still completing certification requirements, some districts may hire you under an emergency permit if they are unable to fill a chemistry position with a fully certified teacher. These are temporary and typically require you to be enrolled in an EPP and actively working toward full certification.

Applications for emergency permits typically open after July 1 for the coming school year. You can find more information on emergency permits on the TEA Emergency Permits page.

Summary

1. To become a chemistry teacher in Texas:
2. Earn a bachelor’s degree in chemistry
3. Complete an approved Educator Preparation Program (EPP)
4. Pass the TExES Chemistry and PPR exams
5. Apply for certification through the TEA website
6. Complete the fingerprinting background check
7. Start applying for teaching jobs

Chemistry teaching is a high-demand, high-impact profession that plays a crucial role in STEM education and workforce readiness. With the right qualifications and dedication, you can make a lasting difference in students’ lives and enjoy a stable, fulfilling career along the way.

Ready to Take the First Step?

If you’re eager to become a certified chemistry teacher in Texas but not sure how to get started, Teacher Builder can guide you through the entire process. From exam prep to certification support, we’re here to help you achieve your teaching goals.

This article does not constitute legal or government advice. Certification requirements are subject to change. Always consult the official Texas Education Agency (TEA) for the most current information.