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Frequently Asked Questions

Certification FAQs

What is the GPA Requirement?

University of Dallas requires all candidates to have an overall GPA of 2.75 and a 2.75 in pedagogical courses.  

How long does the Alternative Certification program take?

The Alternative Certification Program lasts approximately 2 years, with the final year being a year long Internship.  Students may also be required to take a semester or more of core courses.  Exemption from these courses is on a case-by-case basis.  Please contact the Education Department regarding course questions.

Can I become certified in an Alternative Certification program if my undergraduate degree is in a different field?

Yes, the Alternative Certification Program does allow students to certify in a field outside of their undergraduate degree. However students may need to take additional foundation courses before they enter they begin Clinical Teaching or their Internship. This is looked at on a case-by-case basis.

Is the Alternative Certification program also a Master degree program?

No, the Alternative Certification Program is not a degree program. Students are classified as degree-holders, certification seekers. The program allows students who have already completed a Bachelor’s degree to complete the required courses and student teaching necessary to hold a teacher’s certificate.

The following Master's plus Teacher Certification programs are available: 

Do you offer any teacher certification courses or programs online?

Yes, the University of Dallas offers some online courses for the undergraduate, Alternative Certification, and Master's 4+1 programs. We also offer late afternoon and evening classes to accommodate working professionals.

Please refer to the course catalog and schedules for more information or contact the Certification Officer.

What is the cost of the Alternative Certification program? 

Please visit Student Account Services for details on tuition rates. Alternative Certification students may be eligible for the educators cohort rate. 

What kind of workload can I manage while enrolled in the Alternative Certification Program?

The University of Dallas recognizes that many individuals completing Alternative Certification also hold current jobs and/or teaching positions. The program is designed to be flexible and accommodate working professionals. Upon entrance into the program, students will meet with a supervisor to create a course plan that aligns best with their goals and circumstances.

What does the required classroom observation entail? 

Alternative Certification students must complete at least 30 observation hours under teachers who are state-certified with 3 or more years of teaching experience. Subject areas of observation vary based on the student's certification. If you are already working in a school, you may complete observation hours there as long as criteria is met. If you are not currently working at a school, the University of Dallas will place you in a school for observation. 

How do I renew my certification?

Please follow the instructions outlined on the TEA website.

I am moving ot Texas and I am currently certified to teach in another state, how do I become certified to teach in Texas?

Please follow the instructions outlined on the TEA website. A complete review of credentials is necessary for out-of-state teachers. Teachers with certificates from other countries will be required to complete an accredited certification program in the U.S.

I am currently certified to teach in Texas, how do I become certified in another state?

The State of Texas, along with over forty-five other states, has signed the interstate reciprocity contract as created by the National Association of State Directors of Teacher Education and Certification (NASDTEC).  The contract facilitates movement of educators from state to state and makes it possible for an educator preparation program to obtain a license in another state.  To learn more set up an appointment with our Certification Officer. 

You can visit NASDTEC website at:

https://www.nasdtec.net/

How to I add additional certifications?

Please refer to the Additional Certifications documentation for more information.

 

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