Georgia teachers use graduate credits for three things: salary step advancement, certificate renewal, and professional learning unit (PLU) requirements. This guide explains all three and shows you where to find graduate courses that count for each.
Salary Step Structure in Georgia
Georgia uses a T-4 through T-7 certificate level system. Each level upgrade — typically T-4 (bachelor’s) to T-5 (master’s) to T-6 (specialist) — triggers significant salary raises. Graduate credits stack toward those upgrades.
Certificate Renewal
Georgia teaching certificates must be renewed every five years and require 10 PLUs (professional learning units). One graduate credit equals 10 PLU hours — so a single 3-credit course handles three renewal cycles’ worth of PLUs.
What GaPSC Accepts
The Georgia Professional Standards Commission accepts graduate credits from regionally accredited institutions. Courses must be graduate-level, and official transcripts must be submitted through your district or directly to GaPSC.
Best Topics for Georgia Teachers
Topics aligned with Georgia’s Standards of Excellence and district strategic priorities include:
- Literacy and reading instruction
- Math instruction for mixed-ability classrooms
- Technology integration
- Classroom management and student engagement
Timing Your Graduate Credits
Summer is the most popular time for Georgia teachers to complete graduate credits. Finishing by August means you can submit for both certificate renewal and potential salary advancement before the school year starts.
Browse accredited graduate courses — used by Georgia teachers statewide.