Explore Education

Criteria for admission to the Teacher Licensure program:

• Have taken the EDUC 000 Education Gateway Course
• Have logged 15 hours of observational field experience
• Cumulative GPA of 2.75
• For elementary education candidates, successfully complete all relevant Praxis exams
• For secondary/K-12 candidates: Have a 3.0 GPA in the relevant subject area or have successfully passed the relevant content area Praxis exam
• Have submitted fingerprints to the Colorado Department of Education and received clearance

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For undergraduates, the year-long residency occurs in your senior year. For graduate licensure tracks, placements are embedded within the program schedule.

Yes, many licensure and endorsement pathways allow for multiple endorsements, depending on the number of credits and state requirements.

We work with regional school districts and partner with local schools in Gunnison, the Western Slope, and throughout Colorado to place students as close as possible.

You have mentor teachers, Western faculty supervision, regular check-ins, and professional development support to guide your transition to full teaching.

It depends on the track (K-12, Special Ed, Principal). Some licensure programs can be completed in one year (e.g. Principal Licensure) with additional credits for a full MA.