Graduate Teacher Certification (GTC)
If you want to transition your career into teaching, consider the Graduate Teacher Certification (GTC) program. This traditional, accelerated teacher preparation program is designed for individuals who:
- hold a bachelor's degree or higher from an accredited institution
- are at least a year out from earning their bachelor's degree
- are interested in earning their initial teaching certificate at the elementary or secondary level
- are able to commit full-time to their coursework and fieldwork
Please see the two routes for the Graduate Teacher Certification (GTC) program below.
Two Routes
Candidates interested in earning their teaching certificate will select from either Elementary or Secondary certification. Please note that each GTC program route has unique prerequisite requirements and varying admission processes, so please review carefully.
Elementary GTC Program
This program is designed for candidates interested in teaching all core content areas within a PK-6th grade setting (English-Language Arts, Mathematics, Social Studies, and Science).
Secondary GTC Program
This program is designed for individuals interested in teaching a specific content area within a middle or high school setting (or a PK-12th setting for Health and Physical Education, Music Education, Visual Arts Education, or a World Language).
Program Testimonial
"For my interview, I researched and planned an actual PBL and presented it to the principal and other staff over Skype. They were very impressed with my preparation and knowledge. I have GVSU and the entire Graduate Teacher Certification program staff to thank for all of that. Even after attending the New Teacher Academy, I realized that somehow I was a step ahead although I was a brand-new teacher. I can’t thank you and the rest of the staff with the GTC program at GVSU enough for preparing me for being at this wonderful campus with this amazing district."
Amy Myers
Biology & Aquatic Science
The Energy School
Houston, TX
Student Scholarships
Each semester, faculty from Grand Valley State University's Education programs consider scholarship opportunities for candidates in both initial certification and graduate programs. These scholarship opportunities have been made possible by the generosity of individuals and organizations dedicated to the preparation of teachers and other educators.