Teacher Certification
Through a strong blend of practical experience and guided instruction, the Alternative Teacher Certification program prepares professionals with a bachelor’s degree to transition into a rewarding teaching career.
- TEA Certification
- Online
- Online
12 Credit Hours
Become a Texas Teacher
Our program supports professionals to shift into a career in education.
With self-paced online modules, multiple start dates throughout the year, and dedicated one-on-one mentorship, the program offers the flexibility and support needed for working individuals. Candidates complete a paid, year-long teaching internship in an approved Texas school district, gaining real classroom experience.
Graduates also earn 12 credit hours toward a master’s degree, depending on their chosen subject area.
application deadlines
Fall
- October 15
Spring
- March 15
Summer
- June 25
Your Path to a New Career
Our CAEP (Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation) accredited program is designed for professionals seeking a new career as educators in Texas. With partnerships with several greater Houston area school districts, our candidates are set up for success at all steps of the process to becoming certified educators.
-
Who?
This program is open to professionals with a bachelor’s degree who currently reside and wish to teach K-12 classrooms in Texas.
-
Program Availability
This course program is offered online, with internship hours fulfilled in a TEA-approved school district.
-
Gain Classroom Experience
Our Alternative Certification Program in Teaching supports candidates through a year-long internship, ensuring they have the foundational experience to move forward in their career with guidance.
-
Support and Flexibility
Our in-person mentorship and support from university faculty gives candidates the opportunity to ask questions, receive feedback, and feel the benefits of a cohort while maintaining the flexibility of online, self-paced coursework with faculty support
-
Time Well Spent
Including the year-long internship, candidates can achieve full certification in 18 months. Plus, candidates earn full pay during their internships, making the program sustainable for individuals to make a pivot to become educators. Twelve credit hours are sought and earned for most certifications except for science and mathematics at or above Grade 7, for which 15 credit hours are sought and earned. These credits may then be applied toward a master’s degree to continue furthering one’s career.
Expert Faculty to Advise You
Our faculty bring extensive experience and recognized expertise in teacher education, combining classroom practice, research, and mentorship to prepare the next generation of educators.
Frequently Asked Questions
The total cost for the program is $5995. This bundle price includes all tuition and fees for the 12 graduate hours you will complete.
Program tuition is not eligible for financial aid or scholarship, but SHSU has partnerships with several Houston area school districts that offer financial support. Please reach out to the Cashier's Office to find out more about payment options for the program.
Sam Houston State University's ACP offers several certification areas. Per the Texas Administrative Code §227.10. Admission Criteria:
(4) For an applicant who will be seeking initial certificate in the classroom teacher class of certificate, the applicant shall have successfully completed, prior to admission, at least:
(A) a minimum of 12 semester credit hours in the subject specific content area for the certification sought, unless certification sought is for mathematics or science at or above Grade 7; or
(B) 15 semester credit hours in the subject specific content area for the certification sought if the certification sought is for mathematics or science at or above Grade 7; or
(C) a passing score on the appropriate content certification examination as specified in the figure provided in this subparagraph. Figure: 19 TAC §227.10(a)(4)(C)
For assistance in determining the appropriate certification and certification pre-admission test, reach out to our program director for support.
Please visit the SHSU Educator Preparation Program FAQs for additional information on testing and certification.
Yes, if you are in good standing with your program, you can transfer to our ACP. Please reach out to ACP@shsu.edu about the process for transferring from another alternative certification program and the steps required to complete the process.
Per TEA, "you must secure a teaching assignment at the grade level and in the subject area of your target certificate." Sam Houston State University's College of Education has partnerships with several TEA approved school districts. If you need assistance in finding a campus to complete your observation hours, please reach out to our program director for more information.
Become a Bearkat
Ready to learn how SHSU can help you or to start your application today? Our Admissions team is here to help. Call 936-339-0148
Advertising Disclaimers:
Sam Houston State
1905 University Avenue
Huntsville, Texas 77341
*Tuition rates, fees, and scholarship availability are subject to change and may vary by program, additional terms and conditions may apply.