Whether they are just graduating college or are veteran members of the work force, many people feel the need to switch careers and serve the community. For people who want to make a profound difference in the lives of youth but earned a bachelor’s degree in an area unrelated to education, there are many post-baccalaureate certifications in education available. Finding the right program can help ensure a successful transition.
Teach for America
Programs such as Teach for America and Teach Nola help graduates and career changers get a taste of the classroom. These programs require a two-year commitment. The summer before the first school year is spent in a teaching institute. Participants learn and practice education strategies and make contacts that will be their lifelines through the next two years.
In these programs, new teachers are assigned to a classroom and receive support throughout their two-year placement. The teaching certificate received is only valid for two years, but there is usually an option to extend it if participants wish to pursue a career in education. Often, they will attend night classes to earn a master’s in education before the end of their placement.
American Board of Certification for Teacher Excellence
The American Board of Certification for Teacher Excellence is a non-profit established by the Department of Education. It offers an online route to post-baccalaureate teacher certification. The self-study module is completed online at the participant’s own pace and usually takes about 10 months. It is often completed while participants maintain a full-time job. After they have finished the course of study, the future teacher completes an exam and is eligible to teach. Not all states recognize this certification and some only allow it in high needs subject areas. Check the website information about specific states and subjects.
University Certificates
Many universities offer post-baccalaureate certificates in education, but there are large differences from school to school. Universities in high-needs areas such as Alaska, some large cities, and some rural areas offer programs that allow participants to teach while they complete their certifications. In these programs, the teacher attends night school. For rural areas, the classes are often held through distant learning. Most of these programs require that prospective teachers take the Praxis I along with other application materials. The Praxis I is a general-knowledge test to make sure that the applicant has a solid academic background. People who wish to teach middle or high school may also need to take the Praxis II, a test that measures knowledge is a specific subject area.
Most post-baccalaureate certificates offered by universities follow the traditional model of classes followed by a period of student teaching. Many schools do not allow potential teachers to work full-time while completing their student teaching. Grants and student loans can help them support themselves during that time.
Related Resource: Speech-Language Pathology
For the many workers who feel that they would like to do something more meaningful with their lives, teaching can be a wonderful experience. Whether they are bringing the experience of years in the workforce or the enthusiasm of a new graduate, they will have the chance to shape America’s future. There are many post-baccalaureate teaching certifications available, it only remains to find the right program for you.
Be the first to comment