Teaching Degrees in New Mexico

Those seeking to obtain a teaching degree in New Mexico should be informed about several factors, including:
Also included here is a list of additional resources and a comprehensive directory of fully accredited teaching degrees in New Mexico.
A bachelor’s degree is the minimum degree required in order to obtain teaching certification in New Mexico. Individuals interested in becoming a teacher are also required to successfully complete an accredited teacher preparation program in order to be eligible for certification. There are 15 colleges and universities that offer teaching degrees in New Mexico.
Currently, 39.5 percent of New Mexico teachers hold a master’s degree or higher. This higher degree can result in a $4,500 per year increase in pay compared to New Mexico teachers who hold a Bachelor’s degree.
Among the varied options for financial aid, including grants and scholarships, for teaching programs in New Mexico are:
Eastern New Mexico University Scholarships
Eastern New Mexico University offers several scholarships to students pursuing teaching degrees.
McCarthey Dressman Education Foundation Scholarships
The Foundation awards one-year scholarships in the amount of $6,000 each to college students enrolled in teacher education programs at four institutions, including New Mexico State University.
New Mexico Highlands University
New Mexico Highlands University offers several scholarships to students pursuing teaching degrees.
New Mexico Space Grant Consortium Scholarships
Awards for education majors to assist in the development of math or science materials for student teaching assignment are available for $2,000 during student teaching semester. These are competitively awarded fellowships. Women and minorities are highly encouraged to apply.
Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) Grant Program
This federally funded grant program awards up to $4,000 per year to students currently pursuing a teaching degree in New Mexico, providing the student demonstrates financial need. Students must agree to work in a high-need school for a minimum of four years.
University of New Mexico Scholarships
A variety of scholarships are available to University of New Mexico College of Education students.
New Mexico offers the following six types of teaching certificates/licenses:
New Mexico state teacher certification requirements include:
New Mexico requires teachers to participate in professional development in order to maintain and build additional knowledge and skills. The state requires a minimum of 12 professional development hours to be eligible for recertification.
The following resources provide additional information for those pursuing teaching degrees in New Mexico.
New Mexico Department of Education
The state of New Mexico’s comprehensive site provides information and resources for individuals that are in pursuit of a teaching degree in New Mexico.
Informal Licensure Information – Quick Reference Guide for Completing Applications
This is a comprehensive guide to New Mexico teaching license types and requirements.
New Mexico Workforce Connection
Information about the New Mexico job market.