Alternative Certification of Educators, ACE
Program Overview
The Alternative Certification of Educators (ACE) program is an accelerated online certification program for individuals with a bachelor's degree seeking a teaching career. It provides the necessary knowledge and skills for certification, with flexible coursework that can be completed in a year or less. The program is accredited by the Texas Education Agency and offers potential scholarship opportunities, especially in math and science fields.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Alternative Certification of Educators (ACE) program is an Initial Teaching Certification Program designed for individuals who hold a bachelor's degree and wish to pursue a teaching career. The program offers an accelerated path to certification, allowing candidates to complete their coursework online in a year or less.
Objectives:
The program aims to:
- Provide candidates with the necessary knowledge and skills to become certified teachers.
- Offer a flexible and convenient learning experience through online coursework.
- Equip candidates with the ability to apply their certification credits towards a master's degree if they choose to continue their education.
Program Description:
The ACE program is an award-winning teacher education program offered by a respected university. It provides candidates with the opportunity to:
- Take courses through a reputable teacher education program.
- Complete certification courses online in a year or less.
- Pay a total of approximately $7,000, including tuition, textbooks, materials, and test and certificate fees.
- Potentially earn scholarships to reduce program costs, especially in math and science fields.
Other:
- The program is open to candidates who meet the University's admissions requirements outlined in the Graduate Admissions section of the catalog.
- Candidates must pass the TExES Pre-Admission Content Test (PACT) to be eligible for the program.
- The program requires a face-to-face interview with a faculty member in the candidate's content area and with the ACE coordinator.
- The program includes a Code of Ethics Education form, a background disclosure form, and a Declaration of Certification form.
- The program is offered online, with most classes delivered virtually.
- The program is designed to be completed in a year or less.
- The program is accredited by the Texas Education Agency (TEA).
Texas A&M University - Corpus Christi
Overview:
Texas A&M University - Corpus Christi, often referred to as TAMU-CC, is a public university located on its own island in Corpus Christi, Texas. It is known for its beautiful campus with palm tree lined pathways, natural wetlands, and scenic views of the beach and bay.
Services Offered:
The university offers a wide range of services to students, including:
Academic Advising and Planning:
Provides guidance on course selection, degree planning, and academic success.Academic Support:
Offers resources like tutoring, writing centers, and study skills workshops.Campus Safety:
Maintains a safe and secure environment with security personnel and emergency procedures.Islander Housing:
Provides on-campus housing options for students.Dining:
Offers various dining options on campus, including restaurants and cafes.Campus Resources:
Provides access to libraries, computer labs, and other essential facilities.Sports & Recreation:
Offers recreational activities and opportunities to participate in sports.Health & Wellness:
Provides health services, counseling, and wellness programs.Student Life and Campus Experience:
TAMU-CC offers a vibrant campus life with opportunities for students to:
Get Involved:
Join student organizations, clubs, and volunteer groups.Live Beyond the Classroom:
Participate in social events, cultural activities, and community engagement.Make Connections:
Build relationships with peers, faculty, and staff.Key Reasons to Study There:
Unique Island Location:
The university's location on its own island provides a beautiful and distinctive setting for learning.Research Opportunities:
TAMU-CC has research institutes that allow students to explore issues facing the Gulf of Mexico region.Arts and Culture:
The university hosts visual and performing arts events open to the community.Strong Academic Programs:
Offers a variety of academic programs in various fields.Academic Programs:
The university offers a wide range of academic programs, including:
Explore Areas of Study:
Provides information on various academic programs and areas of study.Colleges:
Offers programs through different colleges, such as the College of Arts and Sciences, College of Business, and College of Nursing.Entry Requirements:
- Baccalaureate Degree: Candidates must hold a Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution of higher learning.
- TExES Pre-Admission Content Test (PACT): Candidates must pass the TExES Pre-Admission Content Test (PACT).
- English Language Proficiency: Applicants must establish proof of English Language Proficiency by:
- Passing English 1301 or 1302
- Passing the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
- Providing a transcript translation by a certified group acceptable to The Higher Education Coordinating Board
- Code of Ethics Education: Candidates must complete the Code of Ethics Education form.
- Interview: Candidates must have a face-to-face interview with a faculty member of the content area and with the ACE coordinator.
- Background Disclosure: Candidates must submit a background disclosure form with Texas Educator’s Code of Ethics, FERPA consent, & Dismissal Policy.
- Declaration of Certification: Candidates must submit a Declaration of Certification form.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
- English 1301 or 1302: Passing these courses fulfills the English Language Proficiency requirement.
- TOEFL: Passing the TOEFL is an acceptable alternative to English 1301 or 1302.
- Transcript Translation: A transcript translation by a certified group acceptable to The Higher Education Coordinating Board can also fulfill the English Language Proficiency requirement.
