Undergraduates

Alternative Certification Program

Want to turn your bachelor's degree into a rewarding teaching career?

    Certification in 12-18 months

    Total cost: $5995

    12 graduate credit hours

Learn more

What Do You Want to Teach?

Undergraduate students who want to become a teacher will major in education. Your degree plan will be designed based on the grade level and the content area you wish to teach. Those planning to become a high school teacher will double major in their content area and education. Candidates may also choose a bilingual or special education certification track.


How to Apply

SHSU keeps the application process as simple as possible by using the ApplyTexas application for beginning freshmen, former/returning students, transfer students, graduate students, and international students. The application fee is $50 ($90 for international students). Learn more about the SHSU application and admission process.

Our partners at TEACH for Houston will help you apply with confidence. By signing up for a TEACH for Houston account before you apply to SHSU you will benefit from:

  • $100 towards program application expenses
  • 1-on-1 career coaching from local teachers
  • Applications Made Easy how-to guides
  • $1,000 scholarships to fund your education

Student Teaching/Yearlong Residency

We use a yearlong student teaching model, called Yearlong Residency, for all PK-3, EC-6, 4-8 and secondary teacher candidates. The Yearlong Residency program provides opportunities for our students to apply for a paid residency position. Many of our partner school districts pay approximately $20,000 for residency.

Students will also want to check out our accelerated advanced degree program, 4+1 TEACH.

Teacher candidates currently working in a partner ISD as a paraprofessional will want to explore our EdAide program.

Contact the Educator Preparation Program office for additional information.


The SHSU College of Education educator preparation programs are accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP).