As a teacher, you are entering a career that shapes and inspires young minds.

There is enormous responsibility and purpose in showing up every day and guiding students through the process of engaging with, learning about, and understanding themselves and the world around them – especially in these complicated times. 

But for all of the challenges, teaching can be incredibly rewarding – watching a face light up when a student understands a new idea, hearing them read for the first time, or guiding them through a new challenge and the seeing the confidence they gain from doing it. 

It's a career where little moments in your classroom can have a life-long impact on a person. British Columbia needs dedicated educators who want to be difference makers in the lives of young people throughout the province.  

B.C. schools want Teachers  

From Metro Vancouver to small communities, schools are seeking qualified educators. If you're considering a teaching career in British Columbia, from the far rural and remote reaches of the North to the forested tip of Vancouver Island and the mountainous region of the Kootenays, here's how to make it happen.  

Here are the steps to get a teaching certificate in B.C., including provincial requirements to teach, and where to find teaching jobs once you're certified. 

Why Teach in British Columbia? 

Teaching in B.C. offers more than just a job – it's a chance to make a lasting impact on students and the community.  

High-demand teaching areas in B.C.: 

• Rural and remote communities 
• French Immersion and Core French 
• Indigenous and First Nations language programs 
• Specialized subject areas and roles, such math teachers and school counsellors 

With competitive teacher salaries, strong benefits and opportunities for career growth, teaching jobs in B.C. offer stability and purpose.  

Eligibility requirements to teach in B.C. include:    

• A Bachelor of Education degree (BEd) from a recognized institution   
• Relevant academic preparation   
• Volunteer or work experience with children or youth   
• Pass a criminal record background check   

Step 1: Complete a Teacher Education Program in B.C. 

To meet the requirements to become a teacher in British Columbia, you must complete a recognized Bachelor of Education or equivalent program.  

Students have two options in B.C.: 

• Pursue a concurrent or dual degree program where they work towards receiving their undergraduate and Bachelor of Education at the same time. 
• Receive their undergraduate degree and then go for a Bachelor of Education post-degree program. The current programs vary in length from 11 months to two years. 

If you have a bachelor's degree and pursue an education degree afterwards, programs typically: 

• Take 1–2 years to complete 
• Include classroom coursework + practicum experience 
• Prepare you to meet provincial teaching standards 

Top institutions like University of British Columbia offer teacher education programs that combine theory with hands-on classroom experience. 

Fun Fact: UBC's recently launched a first-of-its-kind part-time rural and remote teacher training program for those working in small communities. The program offers online coursework with minimal in-person training, which allows students to stay in their community instead of having to move away to earn their BEd.  

Step 2: Apply for a B.C. Teaching Certificate 

To legally teach in B.C., you must earn a teaching certificate issued by the province. 

Main certification options: 

• Certificate of Qualification (COQ) – required for public schools 
• Independent School Teaching Certificate 
• First Nations Language Teaching Certificate 

Not sure which one you need? The Ministry of Education and Childcare provides tools to help match your background with the right certification path. 

Most BEd programs will ensure students go through the process of certification as part of the program, but it is important to be aware of this step and get it done asap. Due to increased demand and expanded eligibility, there may be processing delays, so it's important to apply early. 

If you have completed your education training outside of B.C. and have completed a practicum or spent time teaching in another province, you are likely to be certified to teach in B.C. but will still need to be certified. 

Step 3: Navigate the Certification Process 

To ensure a smooth British Columbia teaching certification process, apply early (up to 9 months before graduation), ensure all documents, including official transcripts and character references, are sent directly to the Teacher Regulation Branch (TRB), and submit your criminal record check immediately upon request. Monitor your application status via Your Account to proactively address any missing information. 

Ensure you read the requirements thoroughly as having the correct information will help the process move more efficiently, saving time for everyone.  

Timelines and Tips:

• Canadian Applicants: Process can take up to six months. 
• International Applicants: Process can take at least 10 months. 
• Documentation: Ensure all documents are accurate and complete; missing documents are the primary cause of delays. 
• Check Requirements: Ensure your teacher education program meets B.C. requirements, and have your final practicum report ready to upload. 

Step 4: Find Teaching Jobs in British Columbia 

Once certified, the next step is to find the right role. Stay connected to Make a Future for the latest career opportunities. 

Through Make a Future, you can: 

• Search hundreds of teaching jobs in B.C. 
• Apply to public, independent and First Nations schools 
• Explore opportunities by region and specialty 

Whether you're interested in urban centres or smaller communities, Make a Future connects you directly with meaningful teaching careers in B.C. schools.