K-8 Certification

The Master of Education Program with a focus on Teacher Education features an introduction to teaching in all areas of the elementary and middle school curriculum, preparation for non-curricular aspects of the teacher's role, reflection on contemporary issues in education and frequent supervision. Cooperating teachers and university faculty work together to provide students with a program that ensures integration of course content with hands-on experience. Student interns will begin their Autumn Quarter Field Experience the first day of public schools, or earlier to attend building orientations or professional development days. Please note you may need to start your Field Experience as early as mid to late August. Students will earn certification in K-8 elementary education.

The K-8 teacher certification program begins in summer quarter only and is four quarters of full-time day study and field experience for the certificate only. Students wishing to also obtain a master’s degree can usually complete this in an additional year of part-time evening study which is conducive to a working teacher’s schedule.

Complete applications received by the priority application date will be assured of a review; complete applications received after the priority application date will be reviewed on a space-available basis. Remember, several items are required to complete your application. Transcripts often take several weeks to arrive. Your application will not be reviewed for admission until all materials have been received.

This program is based on the most current educational research and theory. Our goal is to ensure that our graduates have a positive impact on student learning. Upon successful completion of all program requirements, students will earn a Master of Education degree and a Washington State Residency Teaching Certificate.

Washington State Certification

Upon successful completion of the teacher certification program and a passing score on the WEST-E exam for Elementary Education, students will be recommended to the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction for a Residency Teacher Certificate with an endorsement in Elementary Education. For more information on the WEST-E exam go to the WEST-E website. Students may qualify for additional endorsements based on prior course work and a passing score on the WEST-E for their endorsement area.