Entrance Requirements

Before enrolling in the Department of Teaching and Learning program, students must provide the following:

Undergraduates:

• Successful completion of 45 semester hours of course work
• Successful completion of EDU 2350 - Educational Psychology (only undergraduates)
• Current Degree Progress Report (DPR)

Post Baccalaureates:

• Official transcript showing degree confirmed. Transcripts from countries outside the USA must be accompanied by official evaluations of the transcript by a recognized U.S. evaluation agency
• International students applying from countries where English is not the native language are required to provide scores on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)

All Applicants:

• An overall GPA of 2.50
• Letter of reference from an employer or professor
• Pass scores on the Texas Higher Education Assessment (THEA) -- Required scores:  Reading - Minimum 260, Writing -Minimum 220, and Math - Minimum 230.  THEA can be waived with a copy of SAT or ACT.  Score requirements are SAT 1070 with equal parts of 500 or ACT 23.  Scores from any of these tests are accepted if taken within the last 5 years.  Post Baccalaureates with a 3.0 or higher GPA are exempt from these tests.
• Official interview with advisers in the Teacher Education Office
• Written essay
• Personal Character and Professional Fitness Statement

We offer certification in the following:

Elementary Education (Early Childhood - Grade 6)

The three-hour core courses and the one-hour seminar courses for students preparing to teach elementary age students are designed to prepare teachers who are knowledgeable about children and how they learn, passionate about teaching, and resourceful problem-solvers. The courses are planned to provide a wide range of professional readings, cooperative learning experiences, authentic assignments that simulate the work of classroom teachers, and productive field experiences.

Secondary Education (Middle and High School - Grades 4-8 and 8-12)

Students enrolled in the program to prepare middle and high school teachers will have the opportunity to be active participants in courses rich in both practical experience and theory needed for teaching preadolescents and adolescents. Courses address the unique developmental needs of these students, as well as effective teaching strategies. Courses will provide classroom and field experiences to prepare prospective teachers to become effective teachers and lifelong learners.

All-Level Music

In addition to meeting the requirements for a major in music, students in an All-Level Music certification program must complete 12 hours in education courses and 6 hours in student teaching. Students seeking music certification should consult with their advisers in the Meadows School of the Arts for courses they must take.