Overview
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Introduction to Teacher Education
The Teacher Education degree program provides introductory experiences in education at the elementary, middle and/or high school level and exposes you to a variety of teaching philosophies and approaches to curriculum, classroom management, student engagement and how to meet individual student needs. The historical, societal and legal aspects of teacher education are also explored.
Certification to teach in the public schools requires a 4-year degree. This program is designed to prepare you to transfer to other institutions to complete your training. It also meets the needs of paraprofessionals seeking to fulfill national and state requirements.
While earning the Teacher Education Associate of Arts degree you will work closely with an academic advisor to choose the electives and sequence of courses that best meet the specific requirements of your chosen teaching field and transfer institution. You should be aware that most 4-year colleges require the successful completion of the Praxis core examination, as well as a minimum grade point average, usually 2.5 or better, as a condition of admission.
Please be advised that anyone working in a public school must be free of criminal convictions as required by the NH Department of Education. Some schools may require a background check prior to observing or volunteering. You may incur fees in meeting this requirement.
Degree & Certificate Options
DEGREES
The Teacher Education program offers one Associate of Arts (A.A.) degree:
- Teacher Education (A.A.)
CERTIFICATES
The Teacher Education program also offers one certificate:
Program Goals
The mission of the Teacher Education program is to provide you with the foundation to become an effective educator. You will gain a firm understanding of schools and their functions, the teaching process, effective techniques and the art of reflection in order to meet the needs of all children. You will be able to experience elementary, middle and high school levels. The program is aligned with national standards and 4-year colleges with Education degrees.
Curriculum
Admission Requirements
Students interested in applying for the Teacher Education degree are required to meet with an Admissions Counselor before acceptance into the program. Transfer students from other degree programs or colleges must have a 2.5 GPA for admission to this program.
Technical Standards
- Students must maintain a 2.5 GPA to remain in the program.
- Individuals expecting to pursue their teacher certification and/or seek employment in the educational system are required to undergo criminal background checks and fingerprinting.
- Students who expect to transfer to a 4-year degree program may be required to complete the Praxis Core exam for admission to the college and pass the test for approval for student teaching. MCC has an online tutoring program to prepare students for the Praxis Core. More information can be found here: https://www.ets.org/praxis/nh
- Students seeking employment as a “highly qualified” paraprofessional or teacher assistant must pass the Praxis Core exam.
- Students seeking a career in education should be physically and mentally fit to withstand a physically active work environment and the stress of ever-changing circumstances and have the ability to respond quickly and appropriately when events require.
- Students are also expected to have the maturity to accept direction and guidance, exercise sound judgment, maintain confidentiality and maintain sensitive interpersonal relationships with teachers, fellow students, children and their families.
Incoming Transfer Policy
In addition to MCC transfer credit policies, appropriate education courses will be accepted if taken within a five-year period. Exceptions to this policy, based on professional experience, may be granted at the discretion of the Department Chair. Proper documentation will be required to initiate this process.
Curriculum – Required Courses
Course Sequencing
Degree Program – First Year
Degree Program – Second Year
Outcomes
Acquired Skills
Students who graduate from the Teacher Education degree program will:
- Develop an appreciation for the act of reflective practice and recognize the impact of ongoing reflection in order to become an effective educator.
- Be exposed to elementary, middle and secondary school systems while developing an understanding of the importance of meeting the individual needs of all children.
- Acquire an understanding of various educational theories and their application to the real-world classroom.
- Be exposed to a variety of teaching techniques used in today’s classrooms to meet the individual needs of all children.
Potential Jobs
- Teacher Aid
- Paraprofessional
- Substitute Teacher
- Tutor
- After-School Professional
- Camp Counselor
Transfer Opportunities
MCC has many opportunities for transfer to various Teacher Certification programs across the state. Transfer options are specific to certification track, so please meet with a Teacher Education Advisor for more information.
Certificates
Careers in Education Certificate
This certificate is ideal for you if you aim to work as a paraprofessional in public school or want to pursue a subject area degree and have an interest in teaching at the secondary level.
The certificate provides a comprehensive foundation in educational practices and content, equipping you with the skills and knowledge necessary to work in various educational roles.
