Career Switcher Program

Program Overview

The Career Switcher Program at Shenandoah University offers a pathway for individuals with a Bachelor's degree and work experience to become certified teachers in Virginia. The program consists of two phases: Phase I provides teaching fundamentals and a practicum, while Phase II involves full-time teaching with mentorship and professional development. Graduates are prepared for teaching positions in public and private schools in Virginia and have a proven track record of success in their new careers.

Program Outline

Career Switcher Program

Degree Overview:

The Career Switcher Program is designed for individuals who hold a Bachelor’s degree and have at least three years of full-time work experience but do not have a teaching certification. The program provides an alternative pathway into teaching for these individuals, offering them the opportunity to switch careers and become certified teachers in Virginia. The program consists of two phases:

• Phase I: This phase focuses on teaching fundamentals and includes topics such as curriculum, instruction, assessment, teaching with technology, classroom management, and more.
It also involves a 40-hour practicum field experience in participating school systems. Upon successful completion, participants receive a Phase I Certificate of Completion and the VDOE reviews their credentials for a Provisional License.
• Phase II: Participants must secure full-time or half-time employment with a public or state-approved private school in Virginia.
During this first year of teaching, they work with a mentor teacher, meet for additional professional development, and receive support and guidance. Upon successful completion of Phase II, participants receive a full 10-year renewable teaching license.

Outline:

• Content: The program covers various topics relevant to teaching, including foundations of education, human growth and development, curriculum, instruction and assessment, teaching with technology, classroom management, reading in the content area, and more.
• Structure: The program consists of two phases: Phase I (150 hours) and Phase II (one year of teaching with ongoing professional development).
Phase I includes face-to-face instruction, a practicum field experience, and online modules on methods of instruction in the participant's chosen endorsement area. Phase II involves full-time or half-time teaching employment, mentoring, and professional development workshops.
• Individual Modules:
• Phase I:
• Foundations of Education
• Human Growth and Development
• Curriculum
• Instruction and Assessment
• Teaching with Technology
• Classroom Management
• Reading in the Content Area
• Methods of Instruction (specific to chosen endorsement area)
• Phase II:
• Ongoing professional development workshops focused on classroom experiences, curriculum updates, and human growth and development.

Assessment:

• Phase I: Participants are assessed through a combination of methods, including written assignments, projects, presentations, participation, and a final exam.
• Phase II: Performance during the one-year teaching experience is evaluated by a mentor teacher and through observations.
Participants must also meet attendance requirements for professional development workshops.

Teaching:

• Teaching methods: The program utilizes a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, discussions, group work, simulations, and hands-on activities.
• Faculty: The program instructors are experienced educators with expertise in their respective fields and a passion for teaching.
• Unique approaches: The program offers a unique opportunity for career switchers to gain practical experience through the Phase I practicum and ongoing support through mentorship and professional development in Phase II.

Careers:

• Potential career paths: Graduates of the Career Switcher Program are prepared for teaching positions in public and private schools in Virginia.
• Opportunities: The program provides participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to be successful in their new teaching careers.
• Outcomes: The program has a proven track record of preparing individuals for successful teaching careers.
Graduates are highly sought after by school districts in Virginia and beyond.

Other:

• The program is open to individuals with a variety of backgrounds and experiences.
• The program is offered in a convenient, flexible format, making it accessible to working adults.
• The program is affordable and offers participants the opportunity to receive scholarship and financial aid assistance.
• The program has a strong track record of success, with graduates consistently reporting positive experiences and successful teaching careers.