Connecticut Alternative Certification Programs
Becoming a teacher often requires years of coursework, culminating in a Bachelor of Arts in Education. Not all individuals who wish to be teachers initially pursue this degree, though. Instead, they use the bachelor’s degree they have already earned, in combination with an alternative certification program, to obtain teaching certification. Qualified teachers are needed to fill the current gaps in the Connecticut education system.
Program Name: Post-Baccalaureate Certification Program
Program Mission and Overview:
This program provides an alternative two-year route to certification for those who want to become teachers after obtaining a bachelor’s degree in another field.
Eligibility and How to Apply
Applicants to the program must:
- Have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
- Have a cumulative undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0.
- Pass the basic skills test for Connecticut or its equivalent.
- Pass the PRAXIS II in the chosen content area.
Check specific institutions for applications and instructions.
Financial Information
Costs of this program vary depending on the institution candidates attend. Financial aid is available through these institutions in the form of scholarships and grants.
Program Name: Connecticut Alternative Route to Teacher Certification (ARC)
Program Mission and Overview:
This program was designed to encourage mid-career individuals to use their current degrees to become certified teachers. Candidates can choose between a nine-week course during the summer and a weekend course that starts in the fall and ends in the spring. The ARC focuses on filling areas where there are teacher shortages.
Eligibility and How to Apply:
Candidates must:
- Have a bachelor’s degree in the same or a related area in which they are seeking certification.
- Have a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 for undergraduate or graduate coursework.
- Pass the PRAXIS I test in writing, reading and math.
- Pass the PRAXIS II test in the chosen subject area.
- Pass the ACTFL exams for those seeking certification in K-12 World Language.
Candidates can apply to the ARC program through the online application process.
Financial Information:
The cost for the ARC program is $3,975. Both the summer and weekend programs have the same tuition cost.
Click here to learn more about how to become a teacher in Connecticut