The verifies that a teacher certification candidate possesses the occupational competence required to be eligible for a career and technical instructional certificate. It is a required step in the teacher certification process.
Occupational Competency Assessment
An OCA is available for each secondary career and technical education program approved by the ºÚÁϳԹÏÍø Department of Education.
Depending on the occupational area, the assessment will take one of three forms:
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National Occupational Competency Testing Institute (NOCTI) Skilled Worker Test
The NOCTI Skilled Worker Test is available for most occupational areas. It is a two-part test that consists of a written and a performance portion. The written test assesses a candidate's knowledge of the occupational area. To complete the performance portion, the candidate performs tasks related to the occupational area using a hands-on demonstration of skills. -
Credential Review
A review of credentials is conducted for occupational areas where a state licensing bureau credentials the candidate or the candidate holds a credential from a state-recognized licensing or certifying agency. Examples include rehabilitation aide, cosmetology, and some health-related occupations. -
Committee Evaluation
A committee evaluation is administered for occupational areas where NOCTI Skilled Worker tests are not available. A small committee of experts in the occupation asks questions to determine a candidate's skill and knowledge base in the occupational area.
The assessments are administered three times a year at selected sites throughout Western ºÚÁϳԹÏÍø. For more information, call 724-357-4434 or email info-cte@iup.edu.