Launch Your Teaching Career at SVSU - Teacher Certification
Whether you're looking for a fast-track option or a traditional pathway, SVSU offers two excellent routes to teacher certification.
If you already have a bachelor’s degree and want to transition into teaching, our Accelerated Route to Teacher Certification allows you to become a certified teacher in just one year through online and hybrid courses, along with a paid residency in a school setting.
For those seeking the Traditional Route to Teacher Certification, SVSU provides a comprehensive program at both elementary and secondary levels. With guidance from expert faculty and a structured curriculum, you'll be well-prepared for certification.
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Accelerated Route to Teacher Certification
Fast track your teaching career with SVSU's one-year teacher certification program!
If you possess a bachelor's degree in another discipline, seize the opportunity to pursue your passion for teaching through our Accelerated Certification with Residency (ACR) program. In just three semesters, blending online and hybrid courses, you'll gain the skills and knowledge needed for professional certification, including a one-year paid residency in a school setting. Our Michigan Department of Education-approved program provides unwavering support, with a master teacher mentor, a university supervisor, and esteemed professors guiding your journey.
To qualify for the ACR program, applicants need a bachelor's degree or higher from a regionally accredited institution, a minimum GPA of 3.0, and adherence to all admission requirements. Transform your career and make a lasting impact as an educator with SVSU's ACR program!
"The professors - the whole experience in the program - was incredible!" - LYNN SKINNER, Ph.D., 7TH GRADE TEACHER
Admission Steps and Deadlines
To gain admission to the program, applicants must complete the following steps by June 2nd, 2025 to get started in Summer.
- attend a Teacher Certification Information Session (see teacher certification information session dates below);
- schedule an advising appointment with our certification officer to go over eligibility criteria and application requirements.
- fulfill the requirements for admission to SVSU and the ACR program;
- satisfy content area testing required by the Michigan Department of Education for teacher certification (initial test for program admission must be completed by: May 11, 2025; additional certification tests may be taken to add additional endorsements to certification until August 3, 2025);
- Visit the Michigan Test for Teacher Certification site for information about tests and dates.
- View Preparation Materials to help prepare for your MTTC.
- interview with a faculty member;Secure a residency placement in either a co-teacher role or paid residency position as teacher of record;
- upon review of application an interview will be scheduled with an SVSU faculty member.
Details about the ACCELERATED route to teacher certification
Questions? Contact the College of Education at coeconnect@svsu.edu.
Traditional Route to Teacher Certification
Saginaw Valley State University is authorized by the State of Michigan to recommend individuals for a standard teaching certificate at the elementary level (K-8) and secondary level (grades 6-12 or K-12) upon successful completion of the College of Education's Teacher Education Program.
To qualify Interested candidates must:
- attend a certification seminar;
- possess a bachelor's degree or higher from a regionally accredited institution;
- have a minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.0 based on the last 60 credits of coursework taken;
- fulfill requirements for admission to SVSU and the Teacher Education Program;
- satisfy all requirements of the Teacher Education Program, Michigan Test for Teacher Certification content area testing, and student teaching.
If you have general questions regarding the Teacher Education Program's prerequisites and/or the application process, please email your questions to us at coeconnect@svsu.edu. If you would like to speak with an advisor, schedule a phone or in-person appointment by calling the College of Education at 989-964-4057 option #1.
Details about the traditional route to teacher certification
CONTACT US.
College of Education
Gilbertson Hall
coeconnect@svsu.edu
(989) 964-4057
Fax: (989) 964-4385
Dean
James E. Tarr, Ph.D.
Gilbertson Hall
(989) 964-7107
Acting Assistant Dean & Professor
Colleen D'Arcy, Ph.D.
Gilbertson Hall
(989) 964-7107