Overview

The full-time Elementary GTC program is designed for individuals interested in teaching the four core subjects (Literacy, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies) within a self-contained PK-6th grade setting. Elementary candidates will engage in:

1. Initial Course Requirements

Elementary GTC candidates must first complete two initial courses offered Fall and Winter semester:

HPE 267: Health and Movement Education for Elementary Teachers

EDT 619: Introduction to Learning, Design, and Technology

2. Elementary GTC Cohort

Once the two initial courses are complete, Elementary GTC candidates would then be eligible to start in a three-semester GTC Cohort (33 credits). The Elementary GTC Cohort runs for three-consecutive semesters, beginning each May and concluding the following April. This coursework is housed at the graduate level within the College of Education and Community Innovation (CECI) and is currently offered in a hybrid setting (in-person coursework and meetings required). The Elementary GTC coursework will cover topics such as evidence-based practices in literacy, mathematics, science, social studies, classroom management, culturally responsive pedagogy, and special education foundations. During the Fall and Winter semesters, candidates will also participate in a year-long clinical field experience under the guidance and supervision of an experienced mentor teacher.

Catalog information for this program can be found in the 2025-2026 Under Construction Catalog.

Admission Information

In order to participate in the Elementary GTC program, candidates:

• must be seeking initial PK-6th grade certification.
• must have an awarded bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution.
• must be at least a year out from earning their bachelor's degree when starting the GTC Cohort.
• must have a 3.0 GPA or higher for the final 60 undergraduate credits (waived if applicant holds a master's degree).
• must successfully complete two initial courses, HPE 267 and EDT 619, prior to starting the GTC Cohort.
• must have 30 hours of paid or unpaid experience working with the PK-6th grade age group prior to starting the GTC Cohort.

College of Education and Community Innovation

gvsu.edu/education/grad
401 Fulton Street West, Building C

Program Contact

Prospective students should first contact the Officer of Certification and Accreditation for initial information and to be connected to program resources for their intended route (Elementary vs. Secondary).

The Office of Certification and Accreditation (OCA)

[email protected]

(616) 331-6650

Application Deadline

There are multiple applications required for the Elementary GTC Program. Please see the Elementary GTC website for the specific order of when to submit the applications and what materials to include for each.