Gateways to Teacher Certification
The 5 Gateways to teacher certification
At GVSU, our undergraduate students pass through 5 Gateways to become certified teachers. Each Gateway is a step that allows our faculty and staff to check in with you and ensure you are progressing toward completing your program.
Gateway 1: Admission and Major Declaration
When you apply to GVSU, declare an Education major, and you are automatically admitted into the program. You start taking education classes right away in your first year.
What You Need to Do:
- Apply to GVSU (we are test-optional).
- Declare an Education major.
- Meet with your advisor every year.
- Take EDF 115 (your first education class).
- No enrollment cap - all Education majors are welcome!
Gateway 2: Apply to Teacher Apprenticeship
You typically apply for Teacher Apprenticeship in your junior year at GVSU.
There is an application and materials due the semester before you plan to be a Teacher Apprentice.
Requirements to Apply:
- 2.7 GPA minimum (3.0 for Art, English, or Social Studies majors).
- Complete prerequisite courses (or be currently enrolled in them when you apply).
- Get a personal recommendation from someone who knows you'd be a great teacher.
- Submit your resume.
- Pass the background check.
- Meet with your placement specialist to review your application.
Gateway 3: Teacher Apprenticeship Semester
In Teacher Apprenticeship, you work alongside a mentor teacher for half days, 5 days a week for 15 weeks.
In Teacher Apprenticeship, you will:
- Spend 375 hours in a P-12 classroom.
- Work with your mentor teacher.
- Write and teach your own lessons.
- Be observed at least 3 times by GVSU faculty.
- Apply for Teacher Internship during this semester.
Gateway 4: Teacher Internship Semester
In Teacher Internship, you will be in the classroom full-time for 15 weeks and take on co-teaching or full teaching responsibilities with a mentor teacher supporting you.
Requirements:
- Pass Teacher Apprenticeship with B- or better.
- Get recommendations from your mentor teacher and instructor.
- Complete 600+ hours in your placement.
- Teach independently for 6-8 weeks.
- Take capstone courses.
- Apply for graduation.
Gateway 5: Apply for Certification through MDE
Getting your Teaching Certificate is the final step! Apply for your official Michigan teaching certificate and start your teaching career.
To get your certificate, you need to:
- Pass the MTTC (Michigan Test for Teacher Certification).
- Graduate from GVSU with your degree.
- Apply through MOECS (the state system).
- Get audited by GVSU's Records Office
- Pay the state certification fee.
- Become a certified teacher!