SFA Home / Education / Departments / Educator
Certification / Alternative Certification
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the certification plans that I can obtain, and how many hours do I have to take?
Areas of Initial Certification
- How long will it take?
Course work for each area of study is designed to be completed in one year. If you begin the first summer term, you can complete the program by the following May. How long it takes really depends on how many courses you take each semester.
- Do I have to begin the first semester in the summer?
No, you can begin the program at any time.
- What is considered a full load?
The PBIC program is considered a graduate program so nine (9) hours are a full load in the fall and spring, and six (6) hours are a full load in the summer.
- How do I apply?
Contact the Office of Certification at 936 468 2903, or view this site to learn the steps to apply.
- What type of field experience do I complete?
You have a choice for your field experience. You may complete student teaching for one semester, or if you are the teacher of record in an accredited school district, you complete a one-year internship.
- How much will it cost and is assistance available?
Certification hours vary from 18 hours to 28 hours depending on your specific area of certification. You may calculate tuition cost by using the tuition calculator and checking the areas of specific certification link above. Financial aid and scholarships are available. In addition, eligible military personnel are assisted with costs through Troops to Teachers.
- Can I seek a master’s degree while pursuing my certification?
Yes, you may work on a master’s degree at the same time, and many of your PBIC courses will count towards your master’s degree. Once you decide to enter a master degree seeking program (Masters Early Childhood, Elementary Education Standard or Content, Reading Specialist, Master of Arts in Teaching), you must be admitted to graduate school and take the GRE.
NOTE: The GRE is not currently required for admission into the MAT in the Secondary Education program.
Top of page