How to Become a Teacher

Elementary Education Certification

In order to graduate with a certificate in elementary education, one must complete the following requirements. 

1. Choose a desired major. 
2. Complete all required teacher certification courses. 
3. If desired, add endorsement areas to certification (e.g. Reading, ESOL, Special Education).

Students will combine an academic degree with initial teacher certification courses. Students earning an elementary education certification will receive an elementary endorsement and can teach grades K-8.

Secondary Education Certification

In order to graduate with a certificate in secondary education, one must complete the following requirements. 

1. Major in an endorsement area (Biology, Chemistry, Physics, English Language Arts, Health and Fitness, Mathematics, Music, Special Education, Social Studies, Theater Arts, and designated World Languages). 
2. Complete all required teacher certification courses. 

Students will combine an academic degree with initial teacher certification courses. Students earning a secondary education certification will receive a secondary endorsement and can teach grades 5-12. 

Students may also opt to pursue the Master of Initial Teaching (MIT) program in a one or two-year timetable after receiving their baccalaureate degree.

Special Education Certification

In order to graduate with a certificate in secondary education, one must complete the following requirements. 

1. Major in Special Education
2. Complete all required teacher certification courses. 

Special Education candidates will be endorsed in Special Education and are certified to teach in a preschool through twelfth grade special education designated classroom

Physical Education Certification

In order to graduate with a certificate in secondary education, one must complete the following requirements. 

1. Major in Kinesiology & Physical Education
2.  Complete all required teacher certification courses. 

Physical Education candidates will be endorsed in Health and Fitness and are certified to teach health and fitness in grades preschool through twelfth grade.

Community, Culture, and Language

This degree is designed to support those individuals who are pursuing careers in elementary and community education.

1. Major in Community, Culture, and Language
2. Select the Elementary Education Concentration

Community, Culture, and Language majors who select the Elementary Education Concentration receive Washington State Elementary certification with English Language Learner and Reading endorsements.