Complete your bachelor's degree. Accelerated teacher certification programs generally require a BA or BS for entry.
Decide what level you want to teach. Elementary schoolteacher certification program requirements differ from those for secondary certification, so changing focus in the midst of the schooling requires more credits and extra time.
Investigate schools to find the one that best fits your schedule and learning style. Schools offer certification programs both online and in traditional classroom settings, and evenings or weekends. Online classes typically work better for students who need more flexibility in their schedule, but they also require more self-discipline.
Ask about transferring credits and using life or work experience as credits for the program when you apply for admission to the school. Every credit shaved off in this manner saves time.
Clear your calendar as much as possible. Accelerated classes often take up more time than standard format. For instance, Georgian Court University's certification program holds classes four days a week for two 10-week sessions and spend one day working in a classroom. Students may spend 400 to 500 hours in class time alone, not including hours spent on reading and other homework.
Create a schedule that blocks out time for classes, study, job and any other necessary activities. Many people apply the concept that each hour in class time requires two to three hours of homework time.
Stay in close contact with a school adviser. Some classes need to be taken in sequence or are offered only certain semesters. Your adviser helps you stay on track so you can finish the program on time.
Prepare for student teaching. Certification requires practice teaching, typically full-time for about 15 weeks at the end of the program. If you work at a weekday job at this point in your program, you may have to quit the job or get a leave of absence.