Alternative Route to Teaching, Undergraduate Certificate

The Alternative Routes to Teaching Undergraduate Certificate prepares reflective teachers who translate educational theory into practice making a positive impact on student learning based on student strengths and needs. Candidates are challenged to critically examine teaching and education from historical and sociopolitical contexts for the purpose of developing culturally responsive and anti-racist teaching practices within the classroom. Candidates are given space and encouragement to reflect on their own life experiences and how those impact their presence with and response to the children and families they serve.  Candidates demonstrate competence in planning, instruction, and assessment relative to state learning standards and evidence-based teaching practices.  Candidates continuously improve and refine their skills as reflective practitioners through coursework and field experiences, collaboration with colleagues, families, and community stakeholders, and prepare for career-long professional development.

Completers earn an initial Washington teacher certification.

Note: Licensing and certification requirements vary by state. Students who relocate to another state during their enrollment may or may not satisfy the eligibility criteria to obtain a professional license or certification in that state. If a student is located outside of the State of Washington, it is highly recommended that you first seek guidance from the appropriate licensing agency in your home state before beginning an academic program outside of your state. CityU has provided the following information about requirements for certification or licensure in other select states.

Admission Requirements

This certificate is designed for candidates who are employed by the school district as classified instructional employees or paraprofessionals who have completed an associate degree. In addition to City University of Seattle's undergraduate admission requirements, found under Admissions in the catalog menu, applicants to this program must also meet the requirements listed below.

  • Complete an associate degree or 90 qualifying credits from an accredited institution
  • Have district authorization to participate in the Alternative Routes program
  • Complete an interview with program faculty
  • Complete each section of the Washington Educators Skills Test - Basic (WEST-B) or have taken other State-approved tests for Math, Reading, and Writing
  • Submit a resume with three references

Applicants for alternative route programs who are eligible veterans or National Guard members who meet the entry requirements for the alternative route program shall be given preference.

Total Required Credits (24 Credits)

Core (24 Credits)

EDU 308American School Law and Issues in Special Populations

3

EDU 404AContent: Student Assessment & Evaluation

3

EDU 316Content: Planning and Instruction

3

EDU 318Content: Classroom Culture and Environment

3

EDU 309Social Justice, Equity and Diversity

3

EDU 475Apprenticeship Residency I

3

EDU 476Apprenticeship Residency II *

3

EDU 479Field Experience III

3