Alternative Teacher Certification Program Overview

Program Overview

Our online Alternative Teacher Certification Program is designed to put you in the classroom as a paid intern after completing your first semester and position you to obtain your initial Texas Teacher certification within 15 months (three academic semesters).  However, candidates have three years to complete the program. 

HT ATCP uses a student cohort model designed for the adult learner who has earned a bachelor’s degree or higher and needs the flexibility to have a full-time job and complete their requirements for earning an initial teacher certification. All courses are facilitated by highly qualified instructors who meet with the class in a virtual classroom once a week from 6:00 p.m.- 9:00 p.m., Saturday classes and workshops are from 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

The Accountability System for all Educator Preparation Programs at Huston-Tillotson is accredited by the State of Texas.

Pathway To Teacher Certification in Texas

To become a certified teacher in Texas through our Teacher Certification program, an individual must:

Apply and get accepted into the HT Education Preparation Program as an ATCP Candidate.

During your first semester complete Phase I:o

• ATCP 456 Curriculum and Methodology – In this course you will complete the preparation coursework in (a minimum of 150 clock hours)
• Conduct your Field Based Experience Observations (a total of 30 clock hours )
• Pass your content exam(s).

After successfully completing Phase I, complete a paid 1-year internship (consecutive semesters-without interruption and must be in the content

During the second semester and the third semester you will complete Phase II and Phase III:

• Phase II: ATCP: 476A Teaching Intern Seminar I 
• In each course you will complete the coursework in (a minimum of 75 clock hours for each phase).
• During Phase Receive a proficiency rating in all observations and principal’s evaluations.
• Phase III: ATCP476B Teaching Internship Seminar II 
• Phase III: Mid-semester, pass your PPR (Pedagogy and Professional Responsibilities) exam
• Apply to Texas Education Agency (TEA) for your initial standard teacher (educator certification) in your content area.

ATCP Completion Schedule 

ATCP Application, Admission, Registration, Advisory, Customer Service, and Certification services are managed through the Center for Adult and Continuing Education.  

ATCP Online Cost

Financial services are managed through the Business office and Financial Aid office: Office of Financial Aid