Program Overview

Career Switcher Program

Introduction

The Career Switcher Program is designed for individuals who hold a Bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited university and have at least three years of full-time work experience or its equivalent. This program provides an alternative pathway into teaching for those who have not completed a teacher preparation curriculum but have relevant life experiences, career achievements, and academic backgrounds.

Program Overview

The Career Switcher Program consists of two phases:

• Phase I: Teaches students how to teach, including topics on the foundations of education, human growth and development, curriculum, instruction and assessment, teaching with technology, classroom management, reading in the content area, and more. This phase includes a 40-hour practicum field placement.
• Phase II: Begins when the Career Switcher secures full-time employment or half-time employment with a public school division or a state-approved accredited private school in Virginia. During this phase, Career Switchers work with a trained mentor teacher and participate in additional professional development.

Application Information

To apply to the Career Switcher Program, follow these steps:

1. Advanced Tuition Deposit/Registration: Submit a non-refundable $100 registration fee.
2. Application: Complete the Career Switcher Program Application Form.
3. Prepare for and schedule a PRAXIS Subject Assessment: Take the exam in the subject area you wish to teach.
4. Submit remaining documents: Include official transcripts, official test scores, and a resume.

Application Timeline

The application timeline varies for Fall and Spring starts. Key dates include:

• Fall Application Timeline:
  • Register and take PRAXIS Subject Assessment: By July 13
  • Last date to submit an application: August 1
  • Complete criminal background check: Prior to August 9
• Spring Application Timeline:
  • Register and take PRAXIS Subject Assessment: By November 16
  • Latest date to submit an application: December 15
  • Complete criminal background check: Prior to January 1

Prerequisites

Career Switcher prospects must submit a complete application package, including:

• Advanced Deposit Form
• Application Form
• Report on Experience Form(s) verifying three years of full-time work experience
• Transcripts showing a Bachelor's Degree from a regionally accredited college/university
• Passing PRAXIS Subject Assessment score
• An up-to-date resume
• Criminal background check

Locations & Schedules

The Shenandoah University Career Switcher Program is offered virtually (synchronous) throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia.

Tuition & Refund Policy

• Tuition: The program cost is $4,995 for the Fall/Spring term, with an additional background check fee and licensure fee.
• Refund Policy: Withdrawal and refund requests are considered on a case-by-case basis.

Frequently Asked Questions

• When is the application deadline for the program?: Applications are accepted until classes are filled.
• Is financial aid available for the program?: There is no financial aid available through Shenandoah University, but participants may apply for educational loans through private lending sources.
• Does the program place participants in their practica field placements during Phase I?: Yes, Shenandoah University will place Career Switcher students in their practicum field placement with local public schools.
• Will I be paid during my initial year of teaching?: Yes, you will be paid under contract by your employing school division.