Full-Time Faculty Qualifications


Teach at Ozarks Tech

See if you’re eligible to teach. Use this page to confirm your qualifications in a few minutes.

How to check your eligibility

Planning to teach online?

If you’re assigned an online course, you’ll complete Ozarks Tech’s online-teaching certification before your first class. Details are provided after you’re hired.

Qualifications at a Glance

At this time we can only employ faculty with permanent residence in one of the following states:

  • Arizona
  • Arkansas
  • Colorado
  • Florida
  • Georgia
  • Kansas
  • Mississippi
  • Missouri
  • New Mexico
  • North Carolina
  • Oklahoma
  • Texas

Some subject areas have additional credentialing requirements and qualifications.

Check the minimum qualifications for your subject area.

Check Specific Subject Area Requirements

Your eligibility starts with your education. Degrees from institutions accredited by any of the following agencies qualify:

  • Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges, Western Association of Schools and Colleges (ACCJC/WASC)
  • Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
  • Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
  • New England Commission on Higher Education (NECHE)
  • Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
  • Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
  • WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

Check Your Subject Area Requirements

Some subjects have extra, discipline-specific requirements. Open the section for your area to see exactly what you need.

Arts & Communication

Arts & Communication Programs

Discipline/ ProgramMinimum RequirementsQualifying Graduate Fields/CoursesAlternative Qualifications
ArtMaster’s degree in Art, or a Master’s degree with at least 18 graduate credit hours in a combination of the qualifying fields.Art, Art History, Graphic ArtsBachelor’s degree in Art with 25 graduate credit hours towards an MFA and 2 years teaching experience.
American Sign LanguageMaster’s degree in American Sign Language or a Master’s degree with at least 18 graduate credit hours in a combination of the qualifying fields.Deaf Studies, American Sign LanguageNative Speaker, ASL Certification of ASLPI or SLPI, or National/Missouri interpreter licensure level 3 or higher.
CommunicationMaster’s degree in Communication or a Master’s degree with at least 18 graduate credit hours in a combination of the qualifying fields.Communications, SpeechBachelor’s degree in Communication and a minimum of 18 graduate credit hours of communication coursework.
Foreign LanguageMaster’s degree in specific Language, or a Master’s degree with at least 18 graduate credit hours in a combination of the qualifying fields.Content Language, Specific Cultural Studies (Specific Language area), Intercultural Communications LinguisticsMaster’s in Education with BS degree in specific language; or BS degree and native speaker.
JournalismMaster’s degree in Journalism, or a Master’s degree with at least 18 graduate credit hours in a combination of the qualifying fields.Journalism, Communication, English, Technical WritingMaster’s degree and proven experience in journalistic writing
MusicMaster’s degree in Music, or a Master’s degree with at least 18 graduate credit hours in a combination of the qualifying fields.Music, Music Performance, Music TheoryBachelor’s degree in music with 5 years of professional performance experience and experience teaching course content.
TheaterMaster’s degree in Drama, or a Master’s degree with at least 18 graduate credit hours in a combination of the qualifying fields.Drama, Theatre Production
Electronic Media ProductionMaster’s degree in electronic media, or a Master’s degree with at least 18 graduate credit hours in a combination of the qualifying fields.Broadcasting, Electronic Media, Film and Television Production, Digital Media Production, Audio Production/Engineering.Bachelor’s degree in Electronic Media or related field with 5 years of industry work experience.
EnglishMaster’s degree in English or writing, or a Master’s degree with at least 18 graduate credit hours in a combination of the qualifying fields.English, Composition, Creative Writing, Literature, Technical WritingFor ENG 150 – a Bachelor’s degree in technical writing with 5+ years of technical writing experience; for ENG 101 and 102 – a Master’s degree in high school ENG education, graduate credit hours in Composition preferred.
Graphic DesignMaster’s degree in Graphic Design, or a Master’s degree with at least 18 graduate credit hours in a combination of the qualifying fields.Graphic Design, Digital Media, Graphic ArtsBachelor’s degree in Graphic Design or related field with 5 years of industry work experience.
Business, Management & Technology

Business, Management & Technology Programs

Discipline/ ProgramMinimum RequirementsQualifying Graduate Fields/CoursesAlternative Qualifications
EconomicsMaster’s degree in Economics, or a Master’s degree with at least 18 graduate credit hours in a combination of the qualifying fields.Economics, Business, Econometrics, Finance, Business Administration
AccountingMaster’s degree in Accounting, or a Master’s degree with at least 18 graduate credit hours in a combination of the qualifying fields.Accounting, Actuarial Science, Business FinanceFor all ACC courses, Bachelor’s degree in Accounting and current CPA, CMA, CFA, or other accounting certification. For ACC 120 & ACC 125 – Bachelor’s degree in Education with focus on Business Education.
BusinessMaster’s degree in Business, or a Master’s degree with at least 18 graduate credit hours in a combination of the qualifying fields.Business, Business Administration, Economics, Entrepreneurship, Finance, Management, MarketingFor all BUS, Bachelor’s degree in Business-related field and current certifications in areas of teaching, such as, CFA, Insurance or Realtor certificates/licenses. For BUS 110, BUS 115, BUS 130, and BUS 185 – Bachelor’s degree in Education with focus on Business Education.
Computer ScienceMaster’s degree in Computer Science, or a Master’s degree with at least 18 graduate credit hours in a combination of the qualifying fields.Computer Education, Educational Technology, IT, Info Systems, Computer Networking, Cybersecurity, Info Security or Info Assurance and Digital ForensicsAssociate degree or higher with appropriate, industry-recognized credential
CybersecurityBachelor’s degree in Cybersecurity (or related IT field)Associate degree or higher with appropriate, industry-recognized credential
Information Technology InfrastructureBachelor’s degree in Networking (or related IT field)Any academic major in Computer Science, Computer Engineering or IT such as Computer Education, Educational Technology, IT, Info Systems, Computer Networking, Info Security or Info Assurance and Digital ForensicsAssociate degree or higher with appropriate, industry-recognized credential
Health Services

Health Services Programs

Discipline/ ProgramMinimum RequirementsQualifying Graduate Fields/CoursesAlternative Qualifications
Allied HealthCertification in specialty area with a minimum of 3 years work experience. The State of Missouri has requirements for the instructor of all the state programs that must be maintained.
Biological Clinical ScienceMaster’s degree or higher in Health Science field, or a Master’s degree with at least 18 graduate credit hours in a combination of the qualifying fields.Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology, Biology, Nutrition, Science Education, Medicine, Nursing.Terminal degree in medical field; For BCS 102 (Navigating Bioclinical Science), Bachelor’s degree with three years of healthcare experience. For BCS 132 (Health Sciences Nutrition), a master’s in psychology or a master’s with three years of experience in a relevant healthcare field.
Lifetime WellnessMaster’s degree in Public Health, Exercise Science, Human Movement, or Physical Education; or Master’s degree with at least 18 graduate credit hours in a combination of the qualifying fields; RN or registered dietitian.Public Health, Exercise Science, Human Movement, Physical Education, Mental Health, Behavioral Sciences, Spirituality or Counseling
Health Sciences – HSC 120Associate degree in a health care field
High School Health SciencesAssociate degree in healthcare field; 3 years of long-term care experienceFor HSC 110 (Introduction to Health Professions), Bachelor’s degree with advising experience
NursingA minimum of a BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing); must have unencumbered RN license.Clinical instructors must have a minimum of an ASN with 4160 hours (2 years FT) experience with unencumbered RN license.
PhlebotomyMin of a PBT certification from the ASCP and 3 years work experience.
Physical Therapy AssistantPTA with an AAS or higher, or a PT with a Bachelor’s degree or higher; must be a graduate from a CAPTE fully-accredited program.
RadiographyBachelor’s degree with ARRT Certification in Radiology
SonographyAssociate degree and possess appropriate credentials for the learning concentration.
Behavioral Health SupportMaster’s degree in social service or related field with at least 18 graduate credit hours in a combination of the qualifying fieldsPsychology, Counseling, Sociology, Social Work, Human Behavior, Behavioral StudiesA graduate degree with at least 5 years of documented experience in social service or advocacy.
Associate of Science in NursingBachelor’s degree in Nursing; No current or past disciplinary action on nursing license.
Dental AssistingBachelor’s degree or the ability to complete one within three years of hire and must be a Certified Dental Assistant.
Dental HygieneBachelor’s degree and must meet CODA requirements for dental hygiene faculty and minimum of five years dental hygiene experience.
Health Information TechnologyAssociate degree in Health Information Technology with Registered Health Information Technology Credential
Medical Lab TechnicianRelevant certification, licensure, or recognition appropriate for the field and three years of clinical experience.
Occupational Therapy AssistantBachelor’s degree from institution with USDE-recognized accreditation; must be initially certified and currently licensed as an occupational therapist or occupational therapy assistant; must have documented expertise in area of teaching, content delivery method, and evaluation of learning
Respiratory Therapy (BSRT)Master’s degree with current license and valid RRT credential
Respiratory Therapy (RST)Bachelor’s degree with current license and valid RRT credential
Surgical TechnologyGraduate of education program in Surg Tech, possess a current Certified Surgical Technologist credential, and have a minimum of 2 years experience either in operating room scrub role or as an instructor within the last 5 years.
Human Services

Human Services Programs

Discipline/ ProgramMinimum RequirementsQualifying Graduate Fields/CoursesAlternative Qualifications
CriminologyMaster’s degree in Criminal Justice or Criminology, or a Master’s degree with at least 18 graduate credit hours in a combination of the qualifying fields.Criminal Justice, Law (JD), Sociology, Social WorkMaster’s degree and at least five years of documented experience in policing, probation and parole, or other criminal justice related position.
PsychologyMaster’s degree in Psychology, or a Master’s degree with at least 18 graduate credit hours in a combination of the qualifying fields.Psychology, Counseling, Social Work, Human Behavior, Behavioral Studies, or other Psychology related fieldFor PSY 110 – Graduate degree in education or a related field with a minimum of 5 years experience teaching the content.
SociologyMaster’s degree in Sociology, or a Master’s degree with at least 18 graduate credit hours in a combination of the qualifying fields.Sociology, Anthropology, Criminology, Cultural Studies, Gerontology, Social Work
Tutoring and Learning CenterBachelor’s degree in related subject matter
Early ChildhoodMaster’s degree in Early Childhood Education or qualifying field. Previous experience teaching in or leading early childcare programs with children ages 0-8Early childhood, child development, or child and family studies.
EducationMaster’s degree in Education, or a Master’s degree with at least 18 graduate credit hours in a combination of the qualifying fields.Education, Educational Administration, Educational Psychology
Fire ScienceAssociate degree in Fire Science Technology, Fire Administration, Emergency Management, Public Safety, or Public Administration is preferred, as well as a minimum of 5 years work experience in Public Safety OR 10 years experience as a credentialed Training Officer. Must have MO Division of Fire Safety certification as a Fire Service Instructor I. Must have the same credentialing in any MO Division of Fire Safety course that the individual is hired to teach.Specialized course work and/or certifications within Fire Science Technology, Fire Administration, Emergency Management, Public Safety, or Public Administration.MO Division of Fire Safety Instructor I or EMT License and 10 years work experience in Public Safety. MO Division of Fire Safety certification for the course being taught if applicable.
Hotel & Restaurant ManagementAssociate degree in hotel & restaurant management.5 years of hotel or restaurant management experience.
ParamedicineParamedic certification, 3 years experience
Social WorkMaster’s degree in Social Work, or a Master’s degree with at least 18 graduate credit hours in a combination of the qualifying fields.Psychology, Social Work, Counseling, Human Behavior, Behavioral Studies, or other Psychology related field
AnthropologyMaster’s degree in Anthropology, or a Master’s degree with at least 18 graduate credit hours in a combination of the qualifying fields.Anthropology, Geography, Cultural Studies, Global Studies, History
Culinary ArtsAssociate degree in Culinary Arts and/or Baking & Pastry or degree from accredited culinary program through the American Culinary Federation (ACF) or certified executive chef or certified chef educator through ACF.3 years industry experience and appropriate, industry-recognized credential
Industrial & Engineering

Industrial & Engineering Programs

Discipline/ ProgramMinimum RequirementsQualifying Graduate Fields/CoursesAlternative Qualifications
Electrical TradesAssociate degree or certificate and 5 years of experience in the electrical field.Journeyman or Master license in the electrical trade
PlumbingPlumbing certificate and 5 years of experience in the plumbing field.Journeyman or Master license in the plumbing trade
Aviation Airframe & Powerplant TechnicianAssociate degree and hold an aviation mechanic certificate with one or more appropriate ratingsAny of the following with at least 3 years experience: FAA Airframe and/or Powerplant; FAA Certified Repairman; FAA certified AGI or ATP; Military training in Aviation Maintenance
Automation and RoboticsAssociate degree in Automation or related field with 3 years related work experience5 years of related work experience
Auto Collision Repair TechnologyAssociate degree in Collision Repair, 3 years experience in collision or refinishing industry, ASE Certification in areas of instruction.5 years industry experience with ASE certification in area of instruction.
Automotive TechnologyAssociate degree in Automotive Repair, 3 years experience in automotive industry, ASE Certification in areas of instruction.5 years experience in automotive industry
Aviation Flight TechnologyPilot Ground School (AVI-150, 153, 170, 250) – Certified Flight instructor or Certified Ground Instructor. Other Courses – Associate degree in qualifying fieldNon-pilot ground courses – Recognized credential from the industry with at least 3 years experience
ChemistryMaster’s degree in Chemistry, or a Master’s degree with at least 18 graduate credit hours in a combination of the qualifying fields.Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical EngineeringMaster’s degree in Secondary Chemistry Education
Construction TechnologyFor full-time faculty: Bachelor’s degree in a Construction Technology related field or an Associate degree with professional certification and licensure.For adjunct faculty: Minimum qualifications specified or at least 3 years experience in the construction industry
Drafting and Design TechnologyAssociate degree in Drafting/Computer-Aided Design or related field with 3 years related work experience.5 years of related work experience
Diesel TechnologyAssociate degree in Diesel Repair, 3 years experience in heavy-duty diesel industry, ASE Certification in areas of instruction.5 years experience in heavy-duty diesel industry
Electronic Distribution SystemsBachelor’s degree with electrical distribution systems experience. Class A CDL without restriction.10 plus years of qualified work experience. Applicable technical training certifications related to the Electrical Distribution or Telecommunications fields.
EngineeringMaster’s degree in Engineering, or a Master’s degree with at least 18 graduate credit hours in a combination of the qualifying fields.Engineering (all types), Physics
Heating, Refrigeration, and Air ConditioningAssociate degree or certificate from an accredited trade school and 5 years of experience in the HVACR field.Journeyman or Master license in the HVACR trade
ManufacturingAssociate degree in related field with 3 years related work experience5 years of related work experience
MathematicsMaster’s degree in Mathematics, or a Master’s degree with at least 18 graduate credit hours in a combination of the qualifying fields.Mathematics, Econometrics, StatisticsFor MTH 050 & 105 – a Bachelor’s degree in Math or Secondary Ed (Math) with at least 3 years experience teaching math. For MTH 110, 128 & 129 – a Master’s in education/teaching and a bachelor’s in Math/Secondary Ed (Math) and at least 3 years experience teaching the content. For MTH 130, a Master’s in education/teaching, a bachelor’s in Math/Secondary Ed (Math), and at least 3 years teaching AP Precalculus or Calculus.
Precision Machining TechnologyAssociate degree in Precision Machining or related field with 3 years related work experience5 years of related work experience
WeldingAssociate degree in Welding or related field with 5 years related work experience.3 years of related work experience and Certified Welding Inspector
MechatronicsAssociate degree in Mechatronics, Industrial Systems, or related field with 3 years related work experience5 years of related work experience
Natural Resources

Natural Resources Programs

Discipline/ ProgramMinimum RequirementsQualifying Graduate Fields/CoursesAlternative Qualifications
GeographyMaster’s degree in Geography, or a Master’s degree with at least 18 graduate credit hours in a combination of the qualifying fields.History, Geography, Geographic Information ScienceMaster’s degree in Secondary History Education
AgricultureMaster’s degree in Agriculture, or a Master’s degree with at least 18 graduate credit hours in a combination of the qualifying fields.Agriculture, Ag Business, Animal Science, Horticulture, Agronomy, Veterinary Science, Plant ScienceDoctor of Veterinary Medicine; Master’s degree in Secondary Agriculture Education; Master’s degree in Vocational Leadership
BiologyMaster’s degree in Biology, or a Master’s degree with at least 18 graduate credit hours in a combination of the qualifying fields.Biology, Biochemistry, Bio-Tech, Botany, Marine Biology, Microbiology, Virology, Zoology, Animal Science, Environmental Science, Wildlife and Fisheries biology.Master’s degree in Secondary Biology Education
Transfer & Core Skills

Transfer & Core Skills Programs

Discipline/ ProgramMinimum RequirementsQualifying Graduate Fields/CoursesAlternative Qualifications
PhilosophyMaster’s degree in Philosophy, or a Master’s degree with at least 18 graduate credit hours in a combination of the qualifying fields.Philosophy, Ethics, Religious Studies, Theology
Political ScienceMaster’s degree in Political Science, or a Master’s degree with at least 18 graduate credit hours in a combination of the qualifying fields.Political Science, History, Law (JD), Public Policy, Public AdminBachelor’s degree and served as a Missouri state Representative or Senator for at least 8 years. (SB 389 17375)
ReadingBachelor’s degree in related subject matter
ReligionMaster’s degree in Religious Studies, or a Master’s degree with at least 18 graduate credit hours in a combination of the qualifying fields.Religious Studies, Philosophy, Theology
HistoryMaster’s degree in History, or a Master’s degree with at least 18 graduate credit hours in a combination of the qualifying fields.History, Cultural Studies, Global StudiesMaster’s degree in Secondary History Education
HumanitiesMaster’s degree in Humanities, or a Master’s degree with at least 18 graduate credit hours in a combination of the qualifying fields.Philosophy, Literature, Fine Arts, Cultural studies, Religious Studies, Theology, Art History, Ethics, Gender StudiesMaster’s degree in Education with 3 years of content teaching experience
College and CareersMaster’s degree in any subject
Orientation to CollegeMaster’s degreeBachelor’s degree with at least 3 years experience in OTC Student Success or OTC Academic Support
Technical Education CurriculumAssociate degree in related field with 3 years related work experience.5 years of related work experience
Technical Education ScienceAssociate degree in related field with 3 years related work experience.5 years of related work experience
PhysicsMaster’s degree in Physics, or a Master’s degree with at least 18 graduate credit hours in a combination of the qualifying fields.Physics, Engineering, Astronomy, Physical Science, Agronomy, Soil Science, Chemistry, Geology, MeteorologyMaster’s degree in Secondary Natural Science Education or Secondary Physics Education

When you meet the qualifications, you can apply for open positions.

Interested in teaching adjunct but don’t see an open position listed? Email your resume or CV to [email protected]

Contact Human Resources

Springfield Campus