Teacher Certification Only Program FAQ
Q: Is the WCSU Certification Only Program a graduate program?
A: Yes. However, it is not a master’s degree program. Students in the WCSU Certification Only Program are considered graduate students by the University, but are enrolled in undergraduate coursework. Students pay an initial graduate admissions fee, but pay tuition costs at the undergraduate tuition rate.
Q: How long does the program take to complete?
A: Plans of study vary considerably in length depending on the area of certification and the educational background of the student. However, every candidate must complete the professional semester and student teaching in two consecutive semesters. These components of the program are designed to be full-time experiences and cannot be completed on a part-time basis.
Q: Do you offer certification in physical education, English as a second language, or special education?
A: No. The WCSU Certification Only Program offers preparation for initial teacher certification in the following areas: Elementary Education (PK-6), Secondary Education (7-12) biology, chemistry, earth science, English, history/social science, mathematics and Spanish, Health Education (PK-12), and Music Education (PK-12).
Q: Do I have to submit official transcripts (i.e., sent directly from the academic institution and/or in a sealed envelope)?
A: Yes. All transcripts reviewed for initial admission to the program must be official.
Q: Can I transfer education courses from other universities?
A: Previous coursework in education that is more than 10 years old will not be accepted for credit and must be re-done. In addition, students may take education courses at other institutions and count them toward initial teacher certification at WCSU only with prior approval from the Education Department Chair.
Q: Does becoming a student in the Certification Only Program guarantee formal admission to the Professional Program and student teaching?
A: No. Students who become part of the Certification Only Program and take three introductory education courses are not assured of the opportunity to acceptance to the Professional Program unless they meet all the criteria outlined in the enclosed materials.
Q: Does the program lead to certification in other states besides Connecticut?
A: The WCSU Certification Only Program is designed to prepare educators for careers in the state of Connecticut. While WCSU graduates have been highly successful in obtaining certification in other states, there is no guarantee that the Certification Only Program will satisfy certification requirements in your state. It is the student’s responsibility to contact the State Department of Education in his/her home state to clarify this issue.
