to Initial Teacher Certification & a Master's Degree
Looking to Change Careers and Become a Certified Teacher?
This accelerated, full-time teacher preparation program is designed for those who hold a bachelor's degree, but are not yet certified to teach. As a traditional pathway, the Graduate Teacher Certification (GTC) program blends teacher preparation coursework with hands-on clinical field experiences in PK-12 classrooms.
The GTC program prepares Teacher Candidates for their initial, standard teaching certificate; however, it is a pathway toward a master's degree. Teacher Candidates can choose to continue with the remaining coursework and graduate requirements to complete the Master of Education - Instruction and Curriculum - Elementary Education or Secondary Level Education degree.
Program Structure
GTC Cohort
Each semester, Teacher Candidates complete coursework required for initial teacher certification. The curriculum emphasizes the integration of theory and practice, providing a strong foundation in research-based pedagogy. Teacher Candidates follow a "cohort model", engaging in shared learning experiences across a fixed timeline.
GTC Cohorts:
- begin each May
- run for three consecutive semesters (Summer, Fall, and Winter)
- follow a structured schedule, with Teacher Candidates enrolling in designated GTC sections of coursework
- promote a strong sense of community among peers, faculty, and staff
Clinical Field Experience
Across two semesters of immersive clinical field experiences, GTC Teacher Candidates gain real-world teaching experience while gradually assuming a greater responsibility within the classroom.
- Field Placement Coordination: GVSU Placement Specialists will oversee and coordinate the placement process, working closely with our PK-12 partners and University Field Directors to find appropriate placements and Mentor Teachers. Teacher Candidates are not responsible for finding their own placement, nor will they be placed in schools where they have personal connections - such as with friends, relatives, or schools where they are employed or were previously employed.
Teacher Candidates enter the Teacher Apprenticeship with diverse backgrounds and experiences, so the pace of progression through different stages will vary. However, all Teacher Apprentices should gradually assume more classroom responsibilities over the Fall Semester.
Teacher Apprentices should steadily increase their involvement in the classroom by:
- actively engaging with the class
- mentoring individual students
- preparing instructional materials
- teaching small groups
- progressing to teaching larger groups and the whole class
Typical Teacher Apprenticeship Schedule: Monday, Wednesday, Friday for the full academic day
Teacher Candidates enter the Teacher Internship with diverse backgrounds and experiences, so the pace of progression through different stages will vary. However, all Teacher Interns should gradually assume more classroom responsibilities over time.
Teacher Interns should steadily increase their involvement by:
- actively engaging with the class
- mentoring individual students
- preparing instructional materials
- teaching small groups
- progressing to teaching larger groups and the whole class for an extended period of time
- co-planning and co-teaching with the Mentor Teacher
- planning and delivering independent lessons
- independently planning and delivering lessons
Typical Teacher Internship Schedule: Monday through Friday for the full academic day
Elementary vs. Secondary Certification
Which Emphasis is Right for Me?
There are two emphases within the GTC program:
- Elementary GTC: PK-6th grade (all subjects, self-contained classroom)
- Secondary GTC: 5-12th grade in a state-approved subject area or K-12th grade in Health and Physical Education, Music Education, Visual Arts Education, or a World Language (French, German, Latin, or Spanish)
Check out the specific Elementary GTC or Secondary GTC webpage to learn more about your intended route to initial teacher certification!
