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?