Certification Program FAQs

Certification Program FAQs:

What is the entrance test for certification programs?

You will need to take or waive the PRAXIS 1 PPST Test for admission to a certification program (i.e, those leading to becoming a classroom teacher or a support professional such as a school media specialist, school counselor or school psychologist.) The PPST can be taken in the computerized version or the pencil and paper test version.

The PPST consists of three subtests, in Reading, Mathematics and Writing. The test is required by the state to ensure that all those certified in Connecticut have at least a minimal level of proficiency in these three subjects. The PPST is very much like the SAT and, in fact, if you have overall SAT scores of 1000 with at least a 400 in both the verbal and math sections (taken pre-March 30, 1995) or 1100 with at least a 450 in both the verbal and math sections (taken post-March 30, 1995), then you may be eligible for a waiver of the Praxis I. However, you will need to apply and receive the waiver before formal admission to a program. Waiver applications are available in the Dean's Office.

What coursework will I need to be certified as a classroom teacher?

The coursework required for certification is divided into three general areas:

1. Courses in "general education" - Most student take these as part of their undergraduate program (liberal arts core). Specifically, the state requires coursework in five of these six areas: English, Mathematics, Social Studies, physical sciences, world languages and fine arts. Also, Connecticut requires a survey course in U.S. History (covering at least 50 years -may be taken on the undergraduate or graduate level).
   
2. A major in the subject area of your intended certification - For example, if you want to be a high school biology teacher, you will need an undergraduate biology major.

If you want to be an elementary teacher, you will need an academic subject area major (e.g. mathematics, English, history, politics, etc.). An interdisciplinary major is also acceptable for elementary certification students; this "major" consists of at least 39 credits with at least 18 credits in one area (concentration) and the other credits divided among no more than 3 related subjects.

3. Pedagogy or professional education courses, including student teaching.

What are the grade levels of Connecticut educator (teacher) certification?

What if I want to be a teacher but don't have a college major in the subject I want to teach?

Generally, you will need to have earned (credits posted to a transcript) a minimum of 30 credits of appropriate content in the subject you want to teach plus 9 credits in a related subject. (e.g. if you want to teach biology, then you will need 30 biology credits and could use courses in chemistry and/or physics and/or math as related subjects.

Those interested in elementary education need an academic major (a variety of major are applicable). Those certified a decade or two ago, needed a major in education; however, today, an academic major is required.

I taught in a private school, do I still need to do student teaching?

If you taught K-12 classes in an approved private school for at least one year within the 10 years prior to your formal admission to a certification program, this experience may be used to waiver student teaching. However, the waiver must be approved by your graduate Department and will depend on the type of experience. Paraprofessional or teacher's aid experience will not waive student teaching. The teaching experience must be full-time, at the grade level, and in the intended area of certification. You will also need to submit evaluations from your teaching mentor and any other proof as specified by the Department Chair or Program Director.

How are students placed in student teaching?

Students apply for student teaching in the semester before they go out to practice. The need to make appointment with the Director of Student Teaching Placement. A Guideline Packet is available from the Director. Deadlines for application for student teaching is September 15th for Spring placement and March 1 for Fall placement. A resume, writing sample, and transcript should be submitted to the Director.

Where are students placed for student teaching and/or required practica/internships?

Students are placed in southwestern Connecticut, with sites ranging from Greenwich to New Haven. The Director of Student Teaching Placement or the Clinical Director will meet with students in the semester before practical training takes place to advise on placement sites. All placements are arranged by the University's placement personnel in conjunction with school district facilitators; students are not to make initial contacts for placement. Broad exposure to sites with culturally diverse students is expected.

How long is Student Teaching/Internship?

Ask a question? - contact graded@mail.fairfield.edu or call (203) 254-4250.

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