Earn your teaching certificate through Concordia University’s Teacher Certification programs. We’re proud to offer both bachelor’s and master’s programs ideal for working adults wishing to become certified teachers in Michigan. Take a deeper look into our fully online programs and what may be the perfect fit for you.
Undergraduate teacher certification pathway
Teaching children in the early stages of their academic journey allows you to help shape their lives and prepare them for later learning. If you’re looking to complete your bachelor’s degree and pursue your teaching certificate, our accelerated program is the perfect place to start.
Concordia’s accelerated bachelor’s in education allows you to become a certified teacher for PreK-6th grade in just 3 years. Our flexible online format makes it so you can balance your current work and life, all while taking steps towards a rewarding career in education.
Post-baccalaureate teacher certification pathways
If you already hold your bachelor’s degree, our post-baccalaureate teacher preparation program pathways are an excellent match for you. Choose between elementary or secondary grade bands, and earn Michigan teacher certification accompanied by your Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction in just 1 year online plus your student teaching.
Lower and Upper Elementary Education Teacher Certification
If you’re looking to teach younger children and looking for a post-baccalaureate degree, our Teacher Certification in Elementary Education with a Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction is a great option.
The program offers the flexibility to specialize in either PreK to 3rd grade (lower), or 3rd to 6th grade (upper), or pursue certification in both grade levels. Endorsements in English as a Second Language (ESL) and Special Education Learning Disabilities (LD) are also available to be added to your Elementary certification.
Lower and Upper Secondary Education Teacher Certification
Youth in middle school and high school are a lively and fun group to teach. They are well on their way to becoming adults, and there’s a need for mentors to step alongside them and mentor them during this crucial time in life…you can be that mentor! As a secondary education teacher, you’ll have the opportunity to encourage their faith walk or ignite their excitement over a particular subject.
You’ll earn a Teacher Certification in Secondary Education with your Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction. Customize your program with the grade band and content area of your choice. You can choose certification in 5th to 9th grade (lower), or 7th to 12th grade (upper). Content areas to choose from include:
- English
- Mathematics
- Science
- Social Studies
- ESL (K-12 Certification)
- Music (K-12 Certification)
- Special Education Learning Disabilities (K-12 Certification)
- Physical Education/ Health (K-12 Certification)
After completing this program, you will be equipped to teach in middle school, junior high, or high school in both the private and public sectors.
How to Get Your Teaching Certification at Concordia
Step 1. Decide What Program is For You
We need great teachers and are excited to help you on this journey. Your first step is to figure out what and who you want to teach. If you have or have not earned a bachelor’s degree, that can determine what program is best for you. Our admissions team is ready to help you weigh out your options.
Step 2. The Transcript Evaluation
Before applying to our teacher certification programs, your admissions counselor can provide a free unofficial transcript evaluation. To get an evaluation follow these steps:
- Send unofficial transcripts to your admissions counselor and include any transcripts where college credit was received.
- The program coordinator will evaluate your transcript to make sure you are eligible for the license you are seeking. If you’re applying for a bachelor’s degree, they will show you how many credits you can transfer.
Step 3. The Application
Bachelor’s Degree
To apply for our bachelor’s degree, follow the steps below:
- Apply Online
- Select the Adult Accelerated Undergraduate application
- Select Elementary Education- Bachelor’s Degree as your academic program
- Gather supplemental materials to finish your application
- Cumulative undergrad GPA of 2.75 for full acceptance
- Official Transcripts from all previously attended schools
Master’s Degree
Once we notify you that you are eligible for certification, we welcome you to apply. To apply to our master’s degree programs, follow the steps below:
- Apply Online
- Select the Graduate application
- Select your intended program
- Gather supplemental materials to finish your application
- Send your official transcripts documenting that you earned a Bachelor’s degree
- Upload a current resume
- Upload a personal essay, describing your reasons for obtaining a teaching license and pursuing our program. What goals do you have?
- Submit two letters of recommendation
Step 4. Acceptance!
Once your application is complete, our program directors will review it.
- If you get accepted, you will receive an initial acceptance letter with a required Letter of Understanding and Background Check forms to complete.
- Congrats! You’ll be fully accepted at this point!
- Check out our Uncommon Scholarships.
Ready to start?
Teaching is one of the most rewarding careers you can have. If you are ready to take the next steps and connect with us, learn more about the School of Education, or contact admissions here. We are prepared to answer your questions and help connect you with the information you need.