Location
Curriculum
150 credit hours
Program Length
5 years
Accreditation
Regionally Accredited by SACSCOC
Rise to the Top with the 5-year BS in Teacher Education/MA in Teaching Program
Do you want to distinguish yourself as a teacher and save time and money? Columbia International University’s 5-year BS/MAT program allows you to finish your Bachelor of Science in Teaching and your Master of Arts in Teaching in just 5 years. This program allows you to dual enroll in Master’s level courses while you finish your Bachelor’s — saving you time and money. CIU’s state approved programs equip you with the knowledge and skills you need to excel in this critical profession. CIU’s Bachelor of Science in Teaching/Master of Arts in Teaching is a comprehensive program that integrates theory and practice to prepare you for a rewarding career in teaching. Whether you aspire to work in a traditional classroom setting or want to explore alternative approaches to education, our program offers a diverse range of concentrations to meet your unique interests and career goals. We are committed to fostering a supportive and inclusive learning community, where our students are encouraged to grow both personally and professionally. We look forward to helping you achieve your goals as an educator at Columbia International University.
CIU’s bachelor’s degree program includes an undergraduate core in Bible and a major in Teacher Education. Students who complete the Teacher Education Major and specific South Carolina state requirements will be recommended for initial licensure in elementary education (2nd-6th Grades) with an add-on in early childhood (PreK-3rd Grades). CIU education programs are endorsed by the Higher Education Approval Program (HEAP) of the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI). Graduates who meet specific requirements are eligible to apply for appropriate ACSI teacher certificates.
The Teacher Education program offers an early childhood (PreK-3rd Grade) and elementary (2nd–6th Grade) education licensure that leads not only to a bachelor’s degree, but also a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT). During the undergraduate program, you may explore other fields of study by choosing a variety of electives such as Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL), Psychology, Youth Ministry, Teaching Bible and English.
Katie Mayberry
Why Choose Columbia International University
Columbia International University is an exceptional choice for students pursuing a degree in teaching education. Our College of Education is committed to providing a rigorous and comprehensive program that prepares graduates for the diverse demands of the classroom. Our experienced and dedicated faculty members are passionate about equipping our students with the knowledge, skills and disposition necessary to excel as educators. Our program also integrates practical experience with theoretical foundations, enabling our students to gain hands-on experience working with experienced teachers in local schools. At CIU we value community and strive to create an inclusive learning environment where students can grow both personally and professionally. We foster a culture of respect, compassion and service that aligns with our Christian values. Our program offers a range of concentrations, allowing students to tailor their studies to their unique interests and career goals. Our goal is to prepare our graduates to make a meaningful impact in the classroom and beyond. If you are seeking to become a top-tier educator, we invite you to explore the possibilities offered by Columbia International University’s Teacher Education program.
To this end our program objectives are intended to help you become a:
- Learner who knows content, children and pedagogy.
- Designer who demonstrates effective planning and preparation for instruction.
- Presenter who models effective educational methodology, communication and technology techniques.
- Evaluator who assesses, diagnoses and monitors individual needs to implement differentiated instructional opportunities.
- Manager who creates and effectively manages a nurturing environment.
- Partner who collaborates with the child, family, community and other professionals.
- Professional, committed, reflective, model educator who learns from experience and contributes to the profession.
Overall Benefits of the Degree
With a 5-year BS/MAT in teacher education, you will increase your employability and your salary, rising to the top of applicants. You will also save money by dual enrolling in Master’s level courses during your Bachelor’s degree. CIU’s training prepares you to teach in early childhood (PreK-3rd Grade) and elementary (2nd-6th Grade) in these contexts:
- Public schools in the United States (The program leads to initial teacher licensure recommendation in South Carolina, which has a reciprocal agreement with most other states.)
- Christian schools in the United States or abroad
- Private and charter schools in the United States
- International schools all over the world
Upon completion of the program, you will have also used the training to pursue other education-related interests:
- Make a positive impact on the lives of students and the education system as a whole
- Enjoy job security and stability with a high demand for qualified teachers
- Gain the satisfaction of working in a fulfilling and rewarding profession
- Experience the richness of working with diverse populations and cultures
- Inspire and shape the minds of the next generation and contribute to their development
- Access a variety of career paths within the education field
- Continue learning and growing professionally throughout your career
- Make a meaningful difference in society and help shape the future
- Foster a lifelong passion for learning and inspire others to do the same
Featured Faculty

Linda Murdaugh
Director of Professional Education Field Experiences, Associate Professor of Education
What Will I Study?
- BIB 1116 Old Testament Survey
In this course, you will become familiar with the basic contents of each book of the Old Testament and the broad historical framework of Old Testament events. You will pay special attention to key passages and prominent themes of the Old Testament. You will read the Old Testament with a view to using it for spiritual formation and discipleship.
3.00 credit hours
- BIB 1120 New Testament Survey
This course is an overview of the books of the New Testament and the historical circumstances surrounding these writings. You will focus on the background, content, message, and personal application of each book in the New Testament. You will also examine the process by which the New Testament canon was formed and the New Testament was transmitted through the history of the Church.
3.00 credit hours
- BIB 3420 Principles of Bible Interpretation
This course will guide you through the hermeneutical principles basic to interpreting Scripture. Many of these principles are common to language and literature, while others apply uniquely to the Bible. All of them are based on the way in which the Bible interprets itself. You will begin to lay a foundation of cognitive understanding, with an emphasis on practice in applying the principles.
3.00 credit hours
- BIB 3616 Romans
Within the framework of an exegetical study, you will focus on the New Testament's most organized, thorough exposition of the Christian faith and its relation to human history and implications for Christian living. Giving special attention to the personal application of the message, you will apply principles of biblical interpretation to the study of this book.
3.00 credit hours
- BIB 4310 Progress of Redemption
In this course, you will explore God's plan of redemption as it progressively unfolds in the Bible. You will trace the basic historical revelation in the Old and New Testaments to see what God is doing and by what method. You will consider the spoken revelations as you observe the progress of doctrine.
3.00 credit hours
- THE 3310 Christian Theology
This course provides a study of the theological truths of the Bible, during which you will focus on the basic doctrines necessary for a Christian worldview: Scripture, God, Christ, Holy Spirit, sin and salvation, church, and future events. You will examine the doctrinal teaching of the Bible, supplemented with insights from the theological reflections of the church throughout its history and from contemporary theological discussions.
3.00 credit hours
- COM 2110 Public Speaking 3.00 credit hours
- ENG 1110 Composition and Research
This course provides you an introduction to reaching well-reasoned conclusions based upon the most credible evidence available, skills fundamental to college writing but also for life as an educated adult. You will develop your abilities with modern academic library resources as evidenced through an annotated working bibliography, among other assignments. You will spend the majority of the course drafting and revising papers which demonstrate the effective use of secondary resources.
3.00 credit hours
- ENG 1111 Literature and Research
This second writing course is designed to foster an appreciation of literature, use literary texts as a platform for strengthening skills in reading, writing, and analysis, and continue to emphasize foundational skills in library research. Texts and genres (such as short fiction, poetry, and drama) will vary.
3.00 credit hours
- PHI 2110 Introduction to Philosophy
In this course, you will explore some of the fundamental issues that must be addressed by anyone attempting to formulate a comprehensive understanding of things (worldview), and will examine primary texts in order to observe some of the very best thinking regarding these fundamental issues.
3.00 credit hours
- PHI 4140 Seminar in Ethics
In this capstone course, you will integrate Scripture, theology, and philosophy as they relate to who we are, what we should do, and living well. You will develop a Christian framework for ethical thinking and decision-making based on the Christian understanding of human nature as bearing the Image of God. Course limited to students classified as seniors.
3.00 credit hours
- PSY 2110 General Psychology
In this survey of scientific psychology, you will focus on historical roots, human development, and the physiological basis of behavior, learning, motivation, perception, emotions, personality, socialization, and pathology. You will learn how to filter psychological data through biblical principles to help produce a biblically-consistent model of human psychology which can then be used in both Christian and non-Christian environments.
3.00 credit hours
- HIS 1110 Introduction to World History
This course gives an overview of the major trends in global history that have created our modern world. The course will explore the major chronology of world history, focusing on the changes, continuities, and connections between major world regions during this period focusing on Europe, the Americas, Africa, Asia and the Middle East. The course will examine the cultural, technological, political, economic, religious and social transformations which shaped the societies. (3)
3.00 credit hours
- HIS 2310 United States History and Government
In this survey from colonial America to the present, you will examine the enduring issues and themes of American history. While the course is structured around historical events, particular effort is made to understand the paradox of American unity through diverse social, economic, political, and cultural factors.
3.00 credit hours
- MAT 1110 College Algebra
This course covers standard college algebra such as functions and expressions, linear, quadratic and rational expressions, and financial formulas. The course will also include real numbers, equations and inequalities, linear and quadratic functions, exponential and logarithmic functions. (3)
3.00 credit hours
- ART 2110 Art Appreciation
This course introduces students to the fine arts in their various media and period styles, with the goal of developing students' understanding and experience of the role of the arts in life. An ongoing focus on the relationship between art and the Bible will encourage students to develop a theology of art.
3.00 credit hours
- MUS 2110 Music Appreciation
This course will introduce the student to the place that music traditionally held as one of the seven liberal arts as an apologetic to the study and enjoyment of music. The goal of the class is to enhance critical listening skills and to develop a working vocabulary of music that is meaningful to the non-musician. The course will introduce the basic elements of music and a brief overview of the history of Western classical music, American Jazz, World, and Pop music. (3)
3.00 credit hours
- BIO 2113 General Biology
In this course, you will explore the concepts of biology, emphasizing the structure, function, and cellular organization of living organisms. Following an introduction to the general nature of science, the scientific method, and the nature of biology, you will focus on cellular biology, botany, zoology, and human biology.
3.00 credit hours
- CSL 0101 Christian Service Learning I
Having identified a local church during your first semester experience, you will now faithfully attend that church and volunteer at least 20 clock hours of service at that church or within a ministry in the community that is approved by the CSL Director. This service must be documented and approved by the CSL Director and a record submitted to the CSL office. No credit will be given, but completion of the service hours is a graduation requirement. Lack of faithfulness in attending or participating in a local church is an issue related to Christian character; failure to demonstrate faithfulness will be addressed by the Student Life office. (0)
0.00 credit hours
- CSL 0201 Christian Service Learning II
Having identified a local church during your first semester experience, you will now faithfully attend that church and volunteer at least 30 clock hours of service at that church or within a ministry in the community that is approved by the CSL Director. This service must be documented and approved by the CSL Director and a record submitted to the CSL office. No credit will be given, but completion of the service hours is a graduation requirement. Lack of faithfulness in attending or participating in a local church is an issue related to Christian character; failure to demonstrate faithfulness will be addressed by the Student Life office. (0)
0.00 credit hours
- CSL 0202 Christian Service Learning III
Having identified a local church during your first semester experience, you will now faithfully attend that church and volunteer at least 30 clock hours of service at that church or within a ministry in the community that is approved by the CSL Director. This service must be documented and approved by the CSL Director and a record submitted to the CSL office. No credit will be given, but completion of the service hours is a graduation requirement. Lack of faithfulness in attending or participating in a local church is an issue related to Christian character; failure to demonstrate faithfulness will be addressed by the Student Life office. (0)
0.00 credit hours
- ICS 1210 Discovering the Mission of God
This course is designed to help you develop world-Christian characteristics. You will explore the Christian's heritage in the history of the church and missions, begin to develop a scriptural perspective on the purpose of the gospel in confronting ideologies, religions and spiritual needs of the world, and discuss current strategies for identifying and reaching the lost.
3.00 credit hours
- MSD 1110 Encountering Spiritual Formation
This course is designed to introduce the student to the foundational principles of spiritual formation for effective life, ministry, and vocation. The process of the student's spiritual formation includes their relationship with God, their biblical self-image, their relationship with the Body of Christ, their personal relationships, and their relationship with the world. Students are invited into a multiple-year journey of encountering spiritual formation in community. The goal of this course is to help students build a foundation for continued spiritual formation at and beyond their time at CIU.
3.00 credit hours
- EDU 2110 Foundations of Education
This course is an introductory study of the historical, social, philosophical, psychological, and pedagogical "foundations" of education, designed for those preparing to become professional educators. You will develop the tools to articulate a personal philosophy of education, with an emphasis on the social context of urban schools and an understanding of biblical principles relating to education.
3.00 credit hours
- EDU 3135 Contemporary Educational Issues
Through the use of group discussion, centered on selected educationally-related literature, students will develop familiarity with important historical and contemporary educational issues and the ability to critically interpret and discuss. This course is repeatable.
1.00 credit hour
- EDU 3320 Curriculum Theories and Principles of Learning
A survey of instructional methods and curriculum, including learning/thinking processes for elementary and early childhood, personality factors, unit and lesson planning, assessment skills and diagnostic and prescriptive procedures, and the needs of exceptional children.
3.00 credit hours
- EDU 3720 Instructional Design for Curriculum and Assessment
This course provides the theoretical and practical foundation for the design and management of instruction and for the use of formal and informal assessment strategies including assessment through observation and documentation in early childhood and elementary education. The course provides the prospective teacher with opportunity to plan instructional units and develop assessments appropriate for early childhood and elementary students, assess learning based on knowledge of subject matter, child development, the community, and curricular goals. (3)
3.00 credit hours
- EDU 4400 Practical Skill Development in Teacher Education 1.00 credit hour
- BIB 3820 Bible for Teachers
In this course, you will develop a philosophy of Bible teaching and learn to follow a preparation procedure that will ensure that the purpose for which Scripture was given will be accomplished in your own teaching. You will focus specifically on how to plan a Bible curriculum with courses of study, units, and daily lessons, following the pattern of biblical revelation and teaching the biblical material with integrity.
3.00 credit hours
- HIS 2310 United States History and Government
In this survey from colonial America to the present, you will examine the enduring issues and themes of American history. While the course is structured around historical events, particular effort is made to understand the paradox of American unity through diverse social, economic, political, and cultural factors.
3.00 credit hours
- PSY 3330 Psychology of Learning
This is an in-depth study of learning, motivation, and change, and the implications this will have for teaching and counseling methods. You will focus on historical and modern cognitive research and testing, especially within the academic, relational, emotional, and spiritual arenas. You will also give particular attention to the development of biblical perspectives of learning theory.
3.00 credit hours
- ASL 2110 American Sign Language 1
Introductory course to learning and understanding ASL. Includes receptive and expressive readiness activities; sign vocabulary; grammatical structure; receptive and expressive finger spelling; and deaf culture, values and rules of behavior of the deaf community.
3.00 credit hours
- EDU 3415 Crisis Care: Children in Trauma
This is a foundational course to train those who work or plan to work with children experiencing trauma. Central to most children's trauma is the loss of security and protection of family and home. This course will teach fundamental issues relating to children who are experiencing parental divorce, HIV/AIDS, refugee resettlement, war casualty, and sexual exploitation and other trauma. The course will also train students in effective intervention principles that promote healing and facilitate closure to childhood traumatic experiences. Emphasis will be placed upon the exploration of holistic ministries.
3.00 credit hours
- EDU 3815 Children in Poverty
This course will address the definition, nature, and needs of children in poverty. Essential issues, such as risk indicators, health issues, the hidden rules of poverty, the need for self-efficacy, and learned optimism will be examined. Family and community partnerships necessities will be addressed. This course is in keeping with a growing educational need, but also God's heart for the poor and children.
3.00 credit hours
- EDU 3711 Teaching Methods and Assessing the Young Child
This course is designed to emphasize observation and multiple forms of assessment: connecting with children and families; implementing curriculum; and strategies, experiences, and tools for teaching and learning that promote quality experiences, appropriate materials and methods, and authentic assessment techniques that promote emergent literacy, mathematical thinking, problem solving, social/personal development, creativity, critical thinking, and learning through play and movement. Age-appropriate content areas, individualization, and integration are also addressed so that students can prepare, implement, and evaluate experiences that encourage constructive development and learning for all children. (3)
3.00 credit hours
- EDU 3721 Integrating the Early Childhood Curriculum
Students will study early childhood development and learning; family and community relationships; and early childhood curriculums, including the interdisciplinary, thematic approaches and the standards of the early childhood profession in order to understand the needs of the young child. Students will then be assisted in integrating their understandings to develop programs and partnerships, make informed decisions, use developmentally appropriate curriculum, materials, and methods, and create healthy and supportive environments for all children. (3)
3.00 credit hours
- EDU 3723 Emergent Literacy in Early Childhood
Helping students in the development of emergent literacy skills, which includes pre-reading, writing, and communication is necessary. This course will enable the educator to review developmentally appropriate methods to help students as they begin to use stories, songs, objects in learning to communicate with others through language and the written word. Letter recognition, identifying vocabulary, and exploration of books are a few concepts that will be addressed. (3)
3.00 credit hours
- EDU 3920 International Teaching Practicum
This course will enable you to experience education in a cross-cultural environment. You will observe schools and teachers and interact with other national educational personnel and students. You will teach in schools and receive pre-service orientation, on-site orientation, field supervision and post-field experience, including debriefing and evaluation.
3.00 credit hours
- EDU 3935 Teacher Education Internship
This internship provides opportunity for practical experiences in education. This may occur in an international or cross-cultural setting, or in North America. An internship fee is charged. (1-3) Note: cumulative/repeatable course, $100 internship fee for undergraduate in lieu of tuition.
1.00 credit hour
- ICS 3140 Cultural Anthropology
In this course, you will study cultural anthropology for the purpose of equipping followers of Christ to be competent interpreters of culture in 21st Century global contexts.
3.00 credit hours
- MUS 3440 Elementary Music Methods
A study of the various methods and materials used in the teaching of choral and general music in kindergarten through grade six including curriculum design with national and state music standards; emphasis on effective teaching strategies; classroom management and discipline, instructional clarity, teacher responsibilities inside and outside the classroom, and multicultural and diverse populations. Includes a field experience component as well as selection, evaluation and use of educational software. Students will develop skills in singing, movement, directive listening, writing, and in developing creative assessments.
3.00 credit hours
- PSY 3370 Human Growth and Development
In this lifespan course, you will examine developmental psychology covering the stages of physiological, psychological, sociological, and spiritual growth of the individual from conception to adulthood. You will analyze significant terms, theories, methods of assessment, and the biblical nature of the developing person. Special attention will be given to the cultural diversity of developing persons in varied learning environments.
3.00 credit hours
- MIN 3715 Counseling Children, Youth, and Families
This course will help you understand the needs of children, adolescents, and families. This course will give you a framework for utilizing individual and family systems model as well as other theories and practical techniques for counseling.
3.00 credit hours
- EDU 5431 Assessment for Reading and Content
Surveys assessment principles guiding instructional design across content areas. Emphasis is given to administering, interpreting, reporting, and implementing assessment tools for early childhood and elementary with an emphasis on literacy progress. This course is part of the 12-credit hour South Carolina Read to Succeed requirement. (3)
3.00 credit hours
- EDU 5432 Methods of Inquiry-Based Learning in the Content Area
Focuses on teaching early childhood and elementary social studies, science, and health. Emphasis is placed on designing developmentally appropriate, inquiry-based instruction using methods and materials to promote learning in early childhood and elementary years. (2)
2.00 credit hours
- EDU 5541 Learning Environment and Classroom Management
This course is designed to introduce a variety of class management models, with analysis and application emphases. Implications for both early childhood and elementary settings are studied. Classroom environmental arrangements; time management factors; children of diverse backgrounds and needs; mental-, emotional-, social- and/or physical differences; and preventive, supportive, and corrective discipline are addressed. Large and small group management and components of effective physical, social, emotional, and academic learning environments are examined. (2)
2.00 credit hours
- EDU 5604 Methods of Teaching Math and STEM
Surveys STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) principles with a focus on math instruction. Emphasis is placed on designing developmentally appropriate, inquiry-based instruction for early childhood and elementary learners.
3.00 credit hours
- EDU 6901 Authentic Professional Experience
This course provides incremental field experience in a variety of diverse early childhood and elementary classroom settings. Observation of best practice models and innovative methodologies allows candidates the opportunity to see theory put into practice. There is particular focus on Expanded ADEPT (Assisting, Developing and Evaluating Professional Teaching) Performance Standards and the South Carolina Teaching Standards (SCTS 4.0) rubric related to classroom teaching. Length of the field experience will vary according to hours needed. A practicum fee is charged. This course is repeatable.
1.00 credit hour
- EDU 5331 Understanding the Learner 3.00 credit hours
- EDU 5601 Foundations of Reading 3.00 credit hours
- EDU 5603 Instructional Practices for Literacy and Technology
Emphasizes instructional strategies, technology, and curricular support for literacy development in reading and writing. A focus is placed on emergent literacy and addressing the diverse needs of learners. This course is part of the 12-credit hour South Carolina Read to Succeed requirement. (3)
3.00 credit hours
- EDU 5660 Integrating the Enrichment Areas
This course introduces the enrichment areas (visual arts, music, drama, and physical education), focusing on enriching learning environments and instructional design through developmentally appropriate practice for early childhood and elementary education. Students actively participate in learning activities involving the arts as they design and evaluate experiences that promote positive development and inter-disciplinary learning. Students learn the biblical basis for encouraging creativity through these enrichment areas.
2.00 credit hours
- EDU 5810 Students with Diverse Needs
This course will expose students to various areas of exceptionality including definitions, incidence, and educational needs. Regulations governing the education of the disabled, options of serving special needs, and the modification of regular classrooms to accommodate exceptional children will be studied.
2.00 credit hours
Admission Requirements
- Complete the online application and pay the $25 application fee
- Review and complete admissions requirements
Accreditation and Accolades



Career Path Opportunities
- Classroom teacher in public or private schools
- Administrator or principal
- Curriculum specialist or instructional coach
- Educational consultant or trainer
- Literacy or numeracy specialist
- Special education teacher or resource specialist
- College or university professor
- Online or distance learning teacher
- Teacher mentor or professional development specialist
- Educational researcher or policy analyst
Top FAQs
- What are the advantages of a 5-year BS/MAT degree?
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You will rise to the top of applicants for any teaching position with your MA in Teaching, and the 5-year BS/MAT degree saves you time and money! You will be dual enrolled in the MA in Teaching classes while completing your BS in Teacher Education. This allows you to finish the MA in Teaching in just one additional year.
- Is this program approved by the state of South Carolina for teacher education?
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Yes, our Teaching Education program is approved by the state of South Carolina. Our program provides students with a comprehensive curriculum that meets the state’s rigorous standards for teacher education. We are proud to offer a program that is fully accredited and recognized by the state, providing our students with the knowledge, skills, and experience they need to succeed in their teaching careers.
- Does this program lead to state certification?
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Yes, our Teaching Education program leads to state certification in both elementary and early childhood education. We are dedicated to preparing our students for a variety of career paths within the education field, and providing them with the resources and support they need to succeed on certification exams and in their teaching careers. Our program is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills needed to meet the requirements for state certification and become successful teachers.
- Can I transfer my certification to another state?
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Yes, our program graduates can transfer their certification to another state. South Carolina has reciprocal agreements with most states, making it possible for our graduates to take their certification and teaching experience to another state. We believe in providing our students with a well-rounded education that prepares them for a variety of career paths within the education field, including the possibility of moving to another state.
- Is this an online program?
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No, our Teaching Education program is not an online program. We believe that in-person interactions and experiences are critical to developing the skills and knowledge needed to be successful teachers. We provide our students with a supportive and collaborative learning environment that allows them to grow both personally and professionally. Our program combines theoretical foundations with practical experience, ensuring our graduates have the necessary skills and experience to become successful educators.
- Do your graduates find teaching positions?
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Yes, our program graduates are highly successful in finding teaching positions. We are dedicated to providing our students with the skills and experience needed to excel in the job market and are proud of our graduates’ accomplishments. In many cases, our candidates are offered positions before they even finish student teaching, demonstrating the value of our program and the quality of our graduates.
- Do your graduates do well in the teaching profession?
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Yes, our program graduates are highly regarded in the teaching profession and are known for their dedication, professionalism and effectiveness in the classroom. South Carolina uses the SCTS 4.0 evaluation system for educators, which includes a measure of successful impact on student learning. To move from an initial certificate to a five-year certificate, program completers must pass these evaluations. State data shows 100% of our program completers pass these evaluations and have a positive impact on student learning, highlighting the effectiveness of our program in preparing exceptional educators. We are committed to continuing to provide our students with the knowledge, skills, and experience needed to succeed in the teaching profession.