Become A Teacher
Sacred Heart University offers aspiring teachers an accelerated path to earn both a bachelor’s degree and master of arts in teaching degree (MAT) with initial teacher certification in Connecticut. Elementary Education students major in Interdisciplinary Studies or STEM. Secondary Education students major in a subject area and minor in Education. Music Education students major in Music and minor in Education.
This accelerated program is designed for undergraduate students to enter SHU and launch a career in just five years.
BA/BS + Master of Arts in Teaching
1
Freshman Year
As you get oriented to SHU…
- Take University Core classes to build a foundation in the humanities
- Join the Education Club to connect with fellow future teachers
- If you are on a secondary education track, declare a minor in education to emphasize teacher prep alongside your content area studies
- Attend an information session offered by Farrington College of Education & Human Development to meet faculty and familiarize yourself with the program
- Pick a summer job that gives you experience working with children. SHU’s Center for Career & Professional Development can help you find opportunities!
2
Sophomore Year
Apply to the Master of Arts in Teaching…
- Meet with your academic adviser to ensure you are meeting progression requirements for the MAT program.
- Decide if you wish to pursue a cross-endorsement in special education (elementary education) or computer science (secondary education) -- highly sought-after credentials for teachers.
- If you are pursuing a STEM-related major, apply to the Robert Noyce Grant, which provides a substantial scholarship for committing to teach in a high-need school for two years
- Find opportunities to work with children in your area of interest, including teaching at SHU’s Discovery Science Center & Planetarium or pursuing an international opportunity at SHU’s campus in Dingle, Ireland.
3
Junior Year
Start your education coursework…
- Take your first education courses with Farrington College of Education & Human Development, which reduces the cost and accelerates completion of the MAT.
- Determine, based on your area focus and with the help of your academic adviser, the best time to take the Praxis II Subject test.
4
Senior Year
Earn your bachelor’s degree…
- Continue taking education courses as you finish major coursework. Your academic adviser will work with you to ensure you are on track.
- Submit your application for preferred placement in an internship or residency to gain classroom experience and a professional network in one of SHU’s partner school systems, which are among the best in Connecticut.
- If you are on an elementary education track, you may begin student teaching this year.
- Graduate with your bachelor’s degree in May!
5
Graduate Year
Immerse yourself in teacher preparation…
- In your graduate year, take classes with a cohort of future teachers over the summer, fall and spring semesters
- Complete student teaching, if you are in secondary education
- Complete your internship or residency during the academic year, to earn teaching experience and receive tuition assistance for 30 graduate credits at SHU
- Explore teacher licensure in your intended home state if leaving Connecticut. Farrington College of Education & Human Development graduates have transferred their license to another state
- Graduate with your master’s degree in May!
6
After Graduating
- Work with Farrington College of Education & Human Development to apply for CT teaching licensure
- If you intend to move to another state, meet with Farrington College of Education & Human Development faculty to understand the process to transfer a teaching license to your future home state.
- Explore career opportunities within education, including SHU’s advanced certifications and special endorsements.