Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and Special Education

Domains

Development, Learning, and Motivation- Candidates design and implement developmentally appropriate learning experiences and inclusive learning environments that enable each learner to meet high standards, are based on how students grow and develop, and recognize that patterns of learning and development vary individually within and across cognitive, linguistic, social, emotional, and physical areas. (InTASC 1, 2)
- Apply knowledge of students' developmental level, prior experiences, interests, and culture to design appropriate and engaging instruction. [MC2, MC5]
- Establish and maintain clear expectations for inclusive physical and digital learning environments that promote positive, safe relationships, high expectations, and equity for all students. [MC1]
- Collaborate with learners, families, communities, colleagues, and other professionals to establish a positive and supportive learning environment and promote learner growth and development. [MC1, MC4]
- Identify culturally responsive instructional strategies to motivate, engage, and meet the specific learning needs of students. [MC3]
- Create real-world connections that motivate students, promote cross-curricular skills and inquiry, and extend learning locally and globally. [MC2, MC5]
- Design and modify instruction applying the major concepts, principles, theories, and research related to the cognitive, linguistic, social, emotional, and physical development of children and young adolescents. [MC2]
- Identify typical and atypical human growth when developing a comprehensive learner profile that can be used to address the needs of students with exceptionalities. [MC2, MC5]
- Create developmentally appropriate learning environments, including effective routines and procedures, to support the individual learning needs of students with exceptionalities, including when using technology. [MC2]
- Identify a range of research-based preventive and responsive practices to support individuals’ social, emotional, and educational well-being.
Curriculum Content- Candidates apply the central concepts, tools of inquiry, and structures of the disciplines they teach to engage students in critical thinking, creativity and collaborative problem-solving, making the content accessible and meaningful to assure mastery. (InTASC 4, 5)
- Modify the general education curriculum to address skills and strategies that students with disabilities need to access the core curriculum, meet individualized learning goals, and function successfully within a variety of contexts. [MC3, MC5]
- Apply knowledge of content area standards and learning progressions to develop cross-disciplinary and real-world learning experiences. [MC2, MC5]
- Collaborate with colleagues to effectively develop rigorous learning experiences that promote creativity, critical analysis, and multiple perspectives. [MC1]
- Develop digital literacy by using technology to support learning and as tools of inquiry to engage students. [MC2]
- Create opportunities for students to collaboratively practice academic language and literacy across subject areas. [MC1]
- Apply knowledge of academic subject matter content of the general curriculum to inform programmatic and instructional decisions for individuals with exceptionalities. [MC2]
- Identify the differences between differentiation, modifications, and accommodations and how each is used to support student learning.
- Differentiate the general education curriculum to address skills and strategies that students need to access the core curriculum, meet individualized learning needs, and function successfully within a variety of contexts. [MC3, MC5]
- Accommodate the general education curriculum to address skills and strategies that students with exceptionalities need to access the core curriculum, meet individualized learning needs, and function successfully within a variety of contexts. [MC3, MC5]
Instruction- Candidates plan and implement instruction using a variety of instructional strategies that support every student in meeting rigorous learning goals by drawing upon knowledge of content areas, cross-disciplinary skills, and pedagogy, as well as knowledge of learners and the community context. (InTASC 3, 7, 8)
- Identify the strengths and needs of individuals when planning instruction and appropriate sequencing of learning that will lead to students meeting short and long-term goals. [MC2]
- Design explicit, systematic instruction that provides students with exceptionalities multiple ways to demonstrate their knowledge and skills. [MC2]
- Plan specially designed instruction (SDI) to meet the individual learning needs of students with exceptionalities. [MC2, MC3, MC5]
- Plan instruction and assessments using various assistive technologies to support the communication and learning of individuals with exceptionalities. [MC2, MC3, MC5]
- Collaborate with all stakeholders when designing instruction that meets specific learner needs and engages students in meaningful tasks. [MC1, MC2]
- Identify learning theories and evidence-based instructional strategies, resources, and technology to effectively engage learners and meet diverse learning needs. [MC2, MC5]
- Expand students' ability to collaborate and communicate through multiple modes and forms of communication. [MC2]
- Design learning experiences that engage students in collaborative and self-directed learning in virtual and in-person environments. [MC1]
- Apply findings from multiple assessments to identify students’ prior knowledge and skills and plan instruction that meets individual needs. [MC2, MC5]
- Create developmentally appropriate and meaningful learning experiences that address the individual strengths, needs, and interests of students with exceptionalities. [MC5]
- Identify instructional strategies, tools, and resources, including technology, based on student interest to increase motivation for learning and promote active student engagement. [MC2]
- Select instructional strategies, tools, and resources, including technology, that develop higher-order skills while meeting the diverse needs of learners. [MC2, MC5]
Assessment- Candidates understand and use multiple methods of assessment to engage learners in their own growth, to monitor learner progress, and to guide the teacher's and learner's decision making. (InTASC 6)
- Identify a variety of assessments and their purposes in supporting and demonstrating learning.
- Identify strategies to support learners in reflecting on progress, setting goals for learning, and identifying quality work. [MC1, MC4]
- Identify culturally and linguistically appropriate measures and procedures that contribute to eligibility determination for special education services. [MC3, MC5]
- Develop formal and informal assessments that ethically and equitably measure student growth and needs, including when using technology. [MC3, MC5]
- Communicate student progress towards measurable outcomes and goals with all stakeholders. [MC1]
- Analyze multiple measures of student learning and behaviors to evaluate and support classroom and school-based systems of intervention for students with and without exceptionalities. [MC2, MC5]
- Analyze data independently and collaboratively to assess student needs, provide feedback on learning, and inform planning. [MC1, MC2, MC4]
- Analyze data from a variety of sources to identify the purpose or function served by interfering behavior. [MC2]
- Evaluate data-based behavioral interventions to create behavior management plans for students with exceptionalities. [MC2, MC5]
Professionalism- Candidates engage in ongoing professional learning and use evidence to continually evaluate and improve their practice, as well as seek appropriate leadership roles and opportunities to take responsibility for student learning, to collaborate with learners, families, colleagues, other school professionals, and community members to ensure learner growth, and to advance the profession. (InTASC 9, 10)
- Reflect on personal values and biases and how they may affect teaching and learning. [MC3, MC4]
- Reflect on teaching practices using a variety of data, including current research, to inform instruction and improve student learning. [MC2, MC4]
- Collaborate effectively with learner, families, colleagues, and members of the community to support learner development, achievement, and well-being. [MC2]
- Advocate for students, families, schools, and the community to strengthen the learning environment, promote student success, and demonstrate leadership. [MC4]
- Demonstrate high expectations of the profession including communication, technology, codes of ethics, professional standards practice, and relevant law and policy. [MC3, MC5]
- Establish professional learning goals and engage in meaningful experiences within the professional learning community, including professional development. [MC4]
- Apply ethical guidelines and legal policies and procedures. [MC2, MC5]
- Model effective practice for colleagues, including in a virtual environment. [MC1, MC4]
- Advocate for the profession. [MC1, MC3, MC4]
Collaboration- Candidates collaborate with families, other educators, related service providers, individuals with exceptionalities, and personnel from community agencies in culturally responsive ways to address the needs of individuals with exceptionalities across a range of learning experiences.
- Utilize communication, group facilitation, and problem–solving and conflict resolution strategies to collaborate with all stakeholders in a culturally responsive manner and build effective partnerships. [MC1, MC3, MC4]
- Collaborate with, mentor, and manage paraprofessionals and other stakeholders in their role of supporting the education of individuals with exceptionalities and their families. [MC1, MC4]
- Collaborate with general education teachers to meet the needs of students in the inclusive classroom. [MC1, MC3, MC5]
- Collaborate with all stakeholders to support the student's needs when developing an Individualized Education Program (IEP). [MC1]

Faculty

Our faculty are committed to bringing their abundant knowledge, enthusiasm, and experience to GCU and its students every day.

Program Faculty

Disclosure Categories Related to Professional Licensure

Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and Special Education

for residents of AL , AK , AS , AZ , AR , CA , CO , CT , DE , DC , FM , FL , GA , GU , HI , ID , IL , IN , IA , KS , KY , LA , ME , MH , MD , MA , MI , MN , MS , MO , MT , NE , NV , NH , NJ , NM , NY , NC , ND , MP , OH , OK , OR , PA , PR , PW , RI , SC , SD , TN , TX , UT , VT , VI , VA , WA , WV , WI , WY ,

Alabama (AL)

Alabama

Professional Licensure Disclaimer

The information below pertains to individuals intending to obtain a Class B: Bachelor's Level Certificate from Alabama. It will inform you of whether or not this program meets the educational requirements for this license in this state. This does not pertain to any other license issued by the state. Please be advised that state regulations and processes can change at any time, individuals are encouraged to monitor the state requirements for licensure throughout their education to ensure that the program will meet their intended career goals.

Arizona State Board/Department of Education Approval

Please be advised that Grand Canyon University’s Initial Teacher Licensure programs are approved by the Arizona State Board of Education and the Arizona Department of Education. These programs are not approved by any other state licensing board. Students must acknowledge and understand that state regulations and processes can change at any time. Individuals are encouraged to monitor the state requirements for licensure throughout their education to ensure that the program will meet their intended career goals. For the most current information contact the state agency or visit gcu.edu and review the state licensure disclosures for programs in your state.

Meets - Apply to state with valid AZ license

Based upon a review of the state’s regulations on 05/29/2024, this program appears to meet the educational requirements in this state. Graduates from this program are eligible to obtain a credential in this state if they have first obtained a credential from the professional licensing agency in Arizona. Graduates in these states will be required to provide an Arizona credential that is free of deficiencies to this state licensing board as part of the application process. To do so, graduates will have to meet all Arizona requirements for licensure prior to seeking licensure in this state.

Educator Content Exam Requirements

The state of Alabama requires one or more content exams for teacher licensure. A content exam assesses a student's knowledge of the subject they will be teaching. Per the policy in the GCU University Policy Handbook, students must pass their state-mandated basic skills and content area exams prior to applying for the clinical practice/student teaching experience. At the time of licensure, verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Educator Basic Skills Exam Requirements

The state of Alabama does not require a basic skills exam.

Educator Professional Knowledge Exam Requirements

When certifying through Arizona first, a professional knowledge exam is required for teacher licensure. A professional knowledge exam assesses a student's pedagogical knowledge for the certificate they are seeking. Verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown by the time of application for licensure. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

edTPA Requirements

The edTPA is not required for out-of-state program completers in this state.

Alaska (AK)

Alaska

Professional Licensure Disclaimer

The information below pertains to individuals intending to obtain a Initial Teacher Certificate from Alaska. It will inform you of whether or not this program meets the educational requirements for this license in this state. This does not pertain to any other license issued by the state. Please be advised that state regulations and processes can change at any time, individuals are encouraged to monitor the state requirements for licensure throughout their education to ensure that the program will meet their intended career goals.

Arizona State Board/Department of Education Approval

Licensure with Deficiencies

Based upon a review of the regulations on 03/25/2024, graduates from this program may obtain a license in the state. This state allows graduates from this program to obtain a license with specific deficiencies. The license provided will include additional conditions which the state requires the applicant to meet to maintain licensure. Individuals with specific questions about this state’s process or regulations are advised to contact the state board to determine if the program will meet the individual’s needs. The state contact information and any known additional coursework and/or training which will be required after licensure are outlined below.

Additional Coursework Requirements

The Alaska Department of Education and Early Development requires applicants to complete two additional courses in addition to the program at GCU. The student will be required to complete:

- 3 semester hours of approved Alaska Studies
- 3 semester hours of approved Alaska Multicultural Coursework

To find approved courses go to https://education.alaska.gov/teachercertification/culture#

Whether applying for licensure directly or applying for licensure through reciprocity, verification of completion of the above courses must be submitted to Alaska DEED before the expiration of initial licensure. It is the student's responsibility to be aware of and meet the educational requirements for the state in which they are applying for licensure.

Additional Training Requirements

The Alaska Department of Education and Early Development require applicants who direct certify to complete four mandatory trainings. Applicants who apply for teacher certification through reciprocity are exempt from the mandatory trainings.

Mandatory Trainings:
* Sexual abuse awareness and prevention
* Alcohol or drug related disabilities
* Dating violence awareness and prevention
* Suicide awareness and prevention

Only trainings approved by an Alaska public school district or the Department of Education & Early Development (DEED) will satisfy this requirement. Trainings offered by universities and other organizations must be approved by DEED. The following documents may be submitted as evidence of completion of the approved trainings:
*A record of training with signature of district superintendent or appointed designee or a dean of an accredited school of education;
*A certificate of completion from a training program approved by DEED (See eLearning courses below); or
*An official transcript showing the completion of a training course approved by DEED.

More information can be found at: https://education.alaska.gov/teachercertification/mandatorytraining

Field Placement Requirements

In the state of Alaska, before student teaching can begin, students must receive a Student Teacher Authorization. Student Teacher Authorization applications may take up to four months to be processed. To apply for a Student Teacher Authorization, the student must submit all necessary items in a single packet. The packet must include:

1. A completed Student Teacher Authorization Packet
2. FBI applicant fingerprint card (FD258) or previous background clearance
3. Verification of passing scores on an approved Basic Competency Exam (BCE)
4. A completed Student Teacher Program Enrollment Form
5. Online payment receipt, money order or cashier's check

The application and supporting documents must be mailed to the Teacher Certification office at:
Department of Education and Early Development
Teacher Certification
PO Box 110500
Juneau, AK 99811-0500

Photocopies, scanned or faxed applications will not be accepted.

Students will need to complete two student teaching placements as a programmatic requirement. One student teaching placement will need to be in 1st-8th grade Elementary classroom and one student teaching placement will need to be in Kindergarten-12th grade Special Education classroom.

Educator Content Exam Requirements

The state of Alaska state requires one or more content exams for teacher licensure. A content exam assesses a student's knowledge of the subject they will be teaching. Per the policy in the GCU University Policy Handbook, students must pass Alaska's state-mandated basic skills and content area exams prior to applying for the clinical practice/student teaching experience. At the time of licensure, verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Educator Basic Skills Exam Requirements

The state of Alaska requires a basic skills exam for teacher licensure. The basic skills exam is one assessment broken up into three to four subtests; one for each content area. Verification of a passing score on this exam, all subtests, will need to be shown prior to student teaching. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

There are alternative options that have been approved for satisfying the basic competency requirements. Please see the following link for more information on the approved alternative basic skills competency requirement:
https://education.alaska.gov/teachercertification/praxis

Educator Professional Knowledge Exam Requirements

The state of Alaska requires out of state program completers meet the requirements for certification in the state the program is approved in. Arizona requires a professional knowledge exam for certification. A professional knowledge exam assesses a student's pedagogical knowledge for the certificate they are seeking. Verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown by the time of application for licensure. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

edTPA Requirements

The edTPA is not required for out-of-state program completers in this state.

American Samoa (AS)

American Samoa

Professional Licensure Disclaimer

The information below pertains to individuals intending to obtain a License/Certificate from American Samoa. It will inform you of whether or not this program meets the educational requirements for this license in this state. This does not pertain to any other license issued by the state. Please be advised that state regulations and processes can change at any time, individuals are encouraged to monitor the state requirements for licensure throughout their education to ensure that the program will meet their intended career goals.

Arizona State Board/Department of Education Approval

Unable to Determine

Based upon a review of the state’s regulations on 09/25/2023, Grand Canyon University is unable to determine if completion of this program meets educational requirements for licensure in American Samoa. Additionally, GCU is unaware of whether additional trainings, exams, or professional experience are required to obtain professional licensure in this location. Applicants are advised to seek additional information from the relevant professional licensing agency in the location which they seek employment.

Arizona (AZ)

Arizona

Professional Licensure Disclaimer

The information below pertains to individuals intending to obtain a Standard Professional Teaching Certificate from Arizona. It will inform you of whether or not this program meets the educational requirements for this license in this state. This does not pertain to any other license issued by the state. Please be advised that state regulations and processes can change at any time, individuals are encouraged to monitor the state requirements for licensure throughout their education to ensure that the program will meet their intended career goals.

Arizona State Board/Department of Education Approval

Meets - Approved by the State

Based upon a review of the state’s regulations on 04/04/2024, this program meets the educational requirements for licensure in this state.

Agency Approval Granted

The Grand Canyon University College of Education is approved by the Arizona State Board of Education to offer Institutional Recommendations for Initial Teacher Licensure of early childhood, early childhood special education, elementary, secondary, special education teachers, principals and school counselors only. Programs that lead to licensure contain a student teaching or internship component.

Field Placement Requirements

Students will need to complete two student teaching placements as a programmatic requirement. One student teaching placement will need to be in a Kindergarten-8th grade Elementary classroom and one student teaching placement will need to be in a Kindergarten-12th grade Special Education classroom.

Educator Content Exam Requirements

The state of Arizona requires one or more content exams for teacher licensure. A content exam assesses a student's knowledge of the subject they will be teaching. Per the policy in the GCU University Policy Handbook, students must pass their state-mandated basic skills and content area exams prior to applying for the clinical practice/student teaching experience. At the time of licensure, verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Educator Basic Skills Exam Requirements

The state of Arizona does not require a basic skills exam.

Educator Professional Knowledge Exam Requirements

The state of Arizona requires a professional knowledge exam for teacher licensure. A professional knowledge exam assesses a student's pedagogical knowledge for the certificate they are seeking. Verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown by the time of application for licensure. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

edTPA Requirements

The edTPA is not required for teacher, principal or school counselor licensure in Arizona.

Arkansas (AR)

Arkansas

Professional Licensure Disclaimer

The information below pertains to individuals intending to obtain a Provisional License from Arkansas. It will inform you of whether or not this program meets the educational requirements for this license in this state. This does not pertain to any other license issued by the state. Please be advised that state regulations and processes can change at any time, individuals are encouraged to monitor the state requirements for licensure throughout their education to ensure that the program will meet their intended career goals.

Arizona State Board/Department of Education Approval

Meets - Apply to state with valid AZ license

Based upon a review of the state’s regulations on 06/05/2024, this program appears to meet the educational requirements in this state. Graduates from this program are eligible to obtain a credential in this state if they have first obtained a credential from the professional licensing agency in Arizona. Graduates in these states will be required to provide an Arizona credential that is free of deficiencies to this state licensing board as part of the application process. To do so, graduates will have to meet all Arizona requirements for licensure prior to seeking licensure in this state.

Additional Coursework Requirements

The Arkansas Department of Education requires applicants seeking licensure in Early Childhood (P-4), Elementary Education (K-6), Middle Childhood Social Studies (4-8), or Secondary Social Studies (7-12) to provide documentation of the successful completion of:

-Three (3) college credit-hours in Arkansas History at an accredited institution of higher education or;
-Forty-five (45) hour professional development piece in Arkansas History through ArkansasIDEAS

Individuals applying for licensure through reciprocity may qualify for a one-year Provisional License if the Arkansas history requirement has not been met upon initial application. The applicant must show verification of having completed the requirement prior to expiration of the Provisional License.

Additional Training Requirements

The Arkansas Department of Education requires applicants to show documentation of completion of the following professional developments:

1. Family and Community Engagement;
2. Child Maltreatment training;
3. Teen Suicide Awareness and Prevention;
4. Bullying prevention;
5. Human trafficking awareness; and
6. Code of Ethics.

These professional developments may be attained on ArkansasIDEAS, from the applicant’s teacher education program, or by another method of delivery approved by the Department under the Rules Governing Professional Development. ArkansasIDEAS professional developments can be found at: https://ideas.myarkansaspbs.org/training. When applying for licensure, documentation of course completion must be presented. A Provisional License may be issued to applicants who have not completed the professional developments prior to initial application.

Field Placement Requirements

Arkansas requires a state-specific clearance that is composed of three separate background checks. The state-specific clearance must be completed before student teaching begins. The steps to complete the required state-specific background checks are:
1. Complete the Online Background Check Consent Form
- When filling out this form, select Teacher (pre-service) as the reason for background check
AR Department of Ed consent form: https://aels.ade.arkansas.gov/AELS/Consent/Consent1.aspx
2. Submit the background check payment
3. Applicants must complete the fingerprinting process by going to their nearest Approved Live Scan Location
- Bring a photo ID, copy of consent form, and a copy of payment receipt with Transaction ID
4. Complete the Arkansas Child Maltreatment Central Registry Check
- This background check can be completed by completing the form, having it notarized and mailing the form along with payment to the Arkansas Child Maltreatment Central
Registry.
5. Complete the Employability Status
- This can be completed online and can take up to four weeks to be determined.

Students will need to complete two student teaching placements as a programmatic requirement. One student teaching placement will need to be in a Kindergarten-6th grade Elementary and one student teaching placement will need to be in a Kindergarten-12th grade Special Education classroom.

Educator Content Exam Requirements

The state of Arkansas requires one or more content exams for teacher licensure. A content exam assesses a student's knowledge of the subject they will be teaching. Per the policy in the GCU University Policy Handbook, students must pass their state-mandated basic skills and content area exams prior to applying for the clinical practice/student teaching experience. At the time of licensure, verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Educator Basic Skills Exam Requirements

The state of Arkansas does not require a basic skills exam.

Educator Professional Knowledge Exam Requirements

The state of Arkansas requires a professional knowledge exam for teacher licensure. A professional knowledge exam assesses a student's pedagogical knowledge for the certificate they are seeking. Verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown by the time of application for licensure. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

edTPA Requirements

The edTPA is not required for out-of-state program completers in this state.

California (CA)

California

Professional Licensure Disclaimer

The information below pertains to individuals intending to obtain a Preliminary Teaching Credential from California. It will inform you of whether or not this program meets the educational requirements for this license in this state. This does not pertain to any other license issued by the state. Please be advised that state regulations and processes can change at any time, individuals are encouraged to monitor the state requirements for licensure throughout their education to ensure that the program will meet their intended career goals.

Arizona State Board/Department of Education Approval

Meets - Apply to state with valid AZ license

Based upon a review of the state’s regulations on 04/02/2024, this program appears to meet the educational requirements in this state. Graduates from this program are eligible to obtain a credential in this state if they have first obtained a credential from the professional licensing agency in Arizona. Graduates in these states will be required to provide an Arizona credential that is free of deficiencies to this state licensing board as part of the application process. To do so, graduates will have to meet all Arizona requirements for licensure prior to seeking licensure in this state.

Additional Coursework Requirements

California's Commission on Teacher Credentialing requires individuals who complete a teacher preparation program and receive a five-year preliminary credential to earn a clear credential. To earn a clear credential, applicants would complete a commission-approved teacher induction program. This cannot be completed during a GCU initial teacher licensure program and is met once a Preliminary credential is issued.

In addition, California's Commission on Teacher Credentialing offers English Language Development (ELD) and Specially Designed Academic Instruction delivered in English (SDAIE) permits. GCU's education programs do not include coursework that can be used to qualify for the English Language Development (ELD) and Specially Designed Academic Instruction delivered in English (SDAIE). This requirement will need to be completed during the Preliminary Credential time frame of five years. It is the student's responsibility to be aware of and meet the educational course requirements for the state in which they are applying for licensure.

Field Placement Requirements

Educator Content Exam Requirements

The state of California requires one or more content exams for teacher licensure. A content exam assesses a student's knowledge of the subject they will be teaching. Per the policy in the GCU University Policy Handbook, students must pass their state-mandated basic skills and content area exams prior to applying for the clinical practice/student teaching experience. At the time of licensure, verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Educator Basic Skills Exam Requirements

The state of California requires a basic skills exam for teacher licensure. The basic skills exam is one assessment broken up into three to four subtests; one for each content area. Verification of a passing score on this exam, all subtests, will need to be shown prior to student teaching. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Educator Professional Knowledge Exam Requirements

edTPA Requirements

The edTPA is not required for out-of-state program completers in this state

Colorado (CO)

Colorado

Professional Licensure Disclaimer

The information below pertains to individuals intending to obtain a Initial Teacher License from Colorado. It will inform you of whether or not this program meets the educational requirements for this license in this state. This does not pertain to any other license issued by the state. Please be advised that state regulations and processes can change at any time, individuals are encouraged to monitor the state requirements for licensure throughout their education to ensure that the program will meet their intended career goals.

Arizona State Board/Department of Education Approval

Meets - May directly certify

Based upon a review of the state’s regulations on 04/17/2024, this program appears to meet the educational requirements to directly certify for licensure in this state.

Educator Content Exam Requirements

The state of Colorado requires one or more content exams for teacher licensure. A content exam assesses a student's knowledge of the subject they will be teaching. Per the policy in the GCU University Policy Handbook, students must pass their state-mandated basic skills and content area exams prior to applying for the clinical practice/student teaching experience. At the time of licensure, verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Educator Basic Skills Exam Requirements

The state of Colorado does not require a basic skills exam.

Educator Professional Knowledge Exam Requirements

edTPA Requirements

The edTPA is not required for out-of-state program completers in this state.

Connecticut (CT)

Connecticut

Professional Licensure Disclaimer

The information below pertains to individuals intending to obtain a Initial Certificate from Connecticut. It will inform you of whether or not this program meets the educational requirements for this license in this state. This does not pertain to any other license issued by the state. Please be advised that state regulations and processes can change at any time, individuals are encouraged to monitor the state requirements for licensure throughout their education to ensure that the program will meet their intended career goals.

Arizona State Board/Department of Education Approval

Meets - May directly certify

Based upon a review of the state’s regulations on 09/08/2023, this program appears to meet the educational requirements to directly certify for licensure in this state.

Educator Content Exam Requirements

The state of Connecticut requires one or more content exams for teacher licensure. A content exam assesses a student's knowledge of the subject they will be teaching. Per the policy in the GCU University Policy Handbook, students must pass their state-mandated basic skills and content area exams prior to applying for the clinical practice/student teaching experience. At the time of licensure, verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Educator Basic Skills Exam Requirements

The state of Connecticut does not require a basic skills exam.

Educator Professional Knowledge Exam Requirements

The state of Connecticut does not require a professional knowledge exam.

edTPA Requirements

The edTPA is not required for out-of-state program completers in this state.

Delaware (DE)

Delaware

Professional Licensure Disclaimer

The information below pertains to individuals intending to obtain a Initial Certificate from Delaware. It will inform you of whether or not this program meets the educational requirements for this license in this state. This does not pertain to any other license issued by the state. Please be advised that state regulations and processes can change at any time, individuals are encouraged to monitor the state requirements for licensure throughout their education to ensure that the program will meet their intended career goals.

Arizona State Board/Department of Education Approval

Meets - Apply to state with valid AZ license

Based upon a review of the state’s regulations on 05/24/2024, this program appears to meet the educational requirements in this state. Graduates from this program are eligible to obtain a credential in this state if they have first obtained a credential from the professional licensing agency in Arizona. Graduates in these states will be required to provide an Arizona credential that is free of deficiencies to this state licensing board as part of the application process. To do so, graduates will have to meet all Arizona requirements for licensure prior to seeking licensure in this state.

Professional Experience Requirements

In order to be eligible for a certificate in Special Education by the Delaware Department of Education, applicants must already hold an Elementary or Secondary certificate prior to applying for a Special Education certificate. It is the student’s responsibility to be aware of and meet the requirements for a certificate in Special Education. More information can be found at the Delaware Department of Education website at: http://www.doe.k12.de.us/.

Educator Content Exam Requirements

Delaware requires one or more content exams for teacher licensure. A content exam assesses a student's knowledge of the subject they will be teaching. Per the policy in the GCU University Policy Handbook, students must pass their state-mandated basic skills and content area exams prior to applying for the clinical practice/student teaching experience. At the time of licensure, verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Educator Basic Skills Exam Requirements

Delaware does not require a basic skills exam.

Educator Professional Knowledge Exam Requirements

edTPA Requirements

The edTPA is not required for out-of-state program completers in this state.

District of Columbia (DC)

District of Columbia

Professional Licensure Disclaimer

The information below pertains to individuals intending to obtain a Standard Credential from District of Columbia. It will inform you of whether or not this program meets the educational requirements for this license in this state. This does not pertain to any other license issued by the state. Please be advised that state regulations and processes can change at any time, individuals are encouraged to monitor the state requirements for licensure throughout their education to ensure that the program will meet their intended career goals.

Arizona State Board/Department of Education Approval

Meets - May directly certify

Based upon a review of the state’s regulations on 10/13/2023, this program appears to meet the educational requirements to directly certify for licensure in this state.

Educator Content Exam Requirements

The District of Columbia requires one or more content exams for teacher licensure. A content exam assesses a student's knowledge of the subject they will be teaching. Per the policy in the GCU University Policy Handbook, students must pass their state-mandated basic skills and content area exams prior to applying for the clinical practice/student teaching experience. At the time of licensure, verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Educator Basic Skills Exam Requirements

The District of Columbia requires a basic skills exam for teacher licensure. The basic skills exam is one assessment broken up into three to four sub-tests; one for each content area. Verification of a passing score on this exam, all sub-tests, will need to be shown prior to student teaching. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Educator Professional Knowledge Exam Requirements

The District of Columbia requires a professional knowledge exam for teacher licensure. A professional knowledge exam assesses a student's pedagogical knowledge for the certificate they are seeking. Verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown by the time of application for licensure. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

edTPA Requirements

The edTPA is not required for out-of-state program completers in this state.

Federated States of Micronesia (FM)

Federated States of Micronesia

Professional Licensure Disclaimer

The information below pertains to individuals intending to obtain a from Federated States of Micronesia. It will inform you of whether or not this program meets the educational requirements for this license in this state. This does not pertain to any other license issued by the state. Please be advised that state regulations and processes can change at any time, individuals are encouraged to monitor the state requirements for licensure throughout their education to ensure that the program will meet their intended career goals.

Arizona State Board/Department of Education Approval

Unable to Determine

Based upon a review of the state’s regulations on 04/19/2024, Grand Canyon University is unable to determine if completion of this program meets educational requirements for licensure in Federated States of Micronesia. Additionally, GCU is unaware of whether additional trainings, exams, or professional experience are required to obtain professional licensure in this location. Applicants are advised to seek additional information from the relevant professional licensing agency in the location which they seek employment.

Florida (FL)

Florida

Professional Licensure Disclaimer

The information below pertains to individuals intending to obtain a Professional Certificate from Florida. It will inform you of whether or not this program meets the educational requirements for this license in this state. This does not pertain to any other license issued by the state. Please be advised that state regulations and processes can change at any time, individuals are encouraged to monitor the state requirements for licensure throughout their education to ensure that the program will meet their intended career goals.

Arizona State Board/Department of Education Approval

Meets - May directly certify

Based upon a review of the state’s regulations on 06/07/2024, this program appears to meet the educational requirements to directly certify for licensure in this state.

Educator Content Exam Requirements

One or more content exams is required for teacher licensure. A content exam assesses a student's knowledge of the subject they will be teaching. Per the policy in the GCU University Policy Handbook, students must pass their state-mandated basic skills and content area exams prior to applying for the clinical practice/student teaching experience. At the time of licensure, verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Educator Basic Skills Exam Requirements

A basic skills exam for teacher licensure. The basic skills exam is one assessment broken up into three to four sub-tests; one for each content area. Verification of a passing score on this exam, all sub-tests, will need to be shown prior to student teaching. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Educator Professional Knowledge Exam Requirements

Florida requires a professional knowledge exam for teacher licensure. A professional knowledge exam assesses a student's pedagogical knowledge for the certificate they are seeking. Verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown by the time of application for licensure. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

edTPA Requirements

The edTPA is not required for out-of-state program completers in this state.

Georgia (GA)

Georgia

Professional Licensure Disclaimer

The information below pertains to individuals intending to obtain a Induction Certificate from Georgia. It will inform you of whether or not this program meets the educational requirements for this license in this state. This does not pertain to any other license issued by the state. Please be advised that state regulations and processes can change at any time, individuals are encouraged to monitor the state requirements for licensure throughout their education to ensure that the program will meet their intended career goals.

Arizona State Board/Department of Education Approval

Meets - May directly certify

Based upon a review of the state’s regulations on 06/07/2024, this program appears to meet the educational requirements to directly certify for licensure in this state.

Field Placement Requirements

The Georgia Professional Standards Commission requires candidates obtain a Pre-Service Certificate in order to complete practicum, internship, or student teaching hours in a Georgia school. Candidates are required to complete a successful Georgia Crime Information Center (GCIC) criminal record check as well as the Georgia Educator Ethics-Program Entry Assessment in order to qualify for a Pre-Service Teaching Certificate. Students will need to complete an Elementary student teaching placement in grades Kindergarten-5th as well as a Special Education student teaching placement in grades K-12 to meet the state's grade level requirements.

Educator Content Exam Requirements

Georgia requires one or more content exams for teacher licensure. A content exam assesses a student's knowledge of the subject they will be teaching. Per the policy in the GCU University Policy Handbook, students must pass their state-mandated basic skills and content area exams prior to applying for the clinical practice/student teaching experience. At the time of licensure, verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Educator Basic Skills Exam Requirements

Georgia does not require a basic skills exam.

Educator Professional Knowledge Exam Requirements

Georgia does not require a professional knowledge exam.

edTPA Requirements

The edTPA is not required for out-of-state program completers in this state.

Guam, US Territory (GU)

Guam, US Territory

Professional Licensure Disclaimer

The information below pertains to individuals intending to obtain a Initial Educator Certificate from Guam, US Territory. It will inform you of whether or not this program meets the educational requirements for this license in this state. This does not pertain to any other license issued by the state. Please be advised that state regulations and processes can change at any time, individuals are encouraged to monitor the state requirements for licensure throughout their education to ensure that the program will meet their intended career goals.

Arizona State Board/Department of Education Approval

Licensure with Deficiencies

Based upon a review of the regulations on 05/23/2024, graduates from this program may obtain a license in the state. This state allows graduates from this program to obtain a license with specific deficiencies. The license provided will include additional conditions which the state requires the applicant to meet to maintain licensure. Individuals with specific questions about this state’s process or regulations are advised to contact the state board to determine if the program will meet the individual’s needs. The state contact information and any known additional coursework and/or training which will be required after licensure are outlined below.

Additional Coursework Requirements

There are no coursework deficiencies for licensure in this state.

Educator Content Exam Requirements

Guam requires one or more content exams for teacher licensure. A content exam assesses a student's knowledge of the subject they will be teaching. Per the policy in the GCU University Policy Handbook, students must pass their state-mandated basic skills and content area exams prior to applying for the clinical practice/student teaching experience. At the time of licensure, verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Educator Basic Skills Exam Requirements

Guam requires a basic skills exam for teacher licensure. The basic skills exam is one assessment broken up into three to four subtests; one for each content area. Verification of a passing score on this exam, all subtests, will need to be shown prior to student teaching. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Educator Professional Knowledge Exam Requirements

Guam requires a professional knowledge exam for teacher licensure. A professional knowledge exam assesses a student's pedagogical knowledge for the certificate they are seeking. Verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown by the time of application for licensure. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

edTPA Requirements

The edTPA is not required for out-of-state program completers in this state.

Hawaii (HI)

Hawaii

Professional Licensure Disclaimer

The information below pertains to individuals intending to obtain a Provisional License from Hawaii. It will inform you of whether or not this program meets the educational requirements for this license in this state. This does not pertain to any other license issued by the state. Please be advised that state regulations and processes can change at any time, individuals are encouraged to monitor the state requirements for licensure throughout their education to ensure that the program will meet their intended career goals.

Arizona State Board/Department of Education Approval

Meets - May directly certify

Based upon a review of the state’s regulations on 04/30/2024, this program appears to meet the educational requirements to directly certify for licensure in this state.

Field Placement Requirements

Educator Content Exam Requirements

The state of Hawaii requires one or more content exams for teacher licensure. A content exam assesses a student's knowledge of the subject they will be teaching. Per the policy in the GCU University Policy Handbook, students must pass their state-mandated basic skills and content area exams prior to applying for the clinical practice/student teaching experience. At the time of licensure, verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Educator Basic Skills Exam Requirements

The state of Hawaii requires the completion of the basic skills exam for individuals who complete a state-approved teacher education program outside of Hawaii. The basic skills exam one assessment broken up into three sub-tests; one for each content area. Verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown prior to student teaching. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Educator Professional Knowledge Exam Requirements

The state of Hawaii requires a professional knowledge exam for teacher licensure. A professional knowledge exam assesses a student's pedagogical knowledge for the certificate they are seeking. Verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown by the time of application for licensure. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

edTPA Requirements

The edTPA is not required for out-of-state program completers in this state.

Idaho (ID)

Idaho

Professional Licensure Disclaimer

The information below pertains to individuals intending to obtain a Interim Certificate from Idaho. It will inform you of whether or not this program meets the educational requirements for this license in this state. This does not pertain to any other license issued by the state. Please be advised that state regulations and processes can change at any time, individuals are encouraged to monitor the state requirements for licensure throughout their education to ensure that the program will meet their intended career goals.

Arizona State Board/Department of Education Approval

Meets - Apply to state with valid AZ license

Based upon a review of the state’s regulations on 03/20/2024, this program appears to meet the educational requirements in this state. Graduates from this program are eligible to obtain a credential in this state if they have first obtained a credential from the professional licensing agency in Arizona. Graduates in these states will be required to provide an Arizona credential that is free of deficiencies to this state licensing board as part of the application process. To do so, graduates will have to meet all Arizona requirements for licensure prior to seeking licensure in this state.

Additional Coursework Requirements

The Idaho Department of Education will issue a three-year, non-renewable interim certificate to those who qualify under reciprocity. The following state-specific coursework requirements will need to be met prior to the expiration of the interim certificate. The IDDOE requires all Idaho teachers working on interim certificates to complete a state board approved Idaho Comprehensive Literacy course or assessment to meet a one-time requirement for full certification.

In addition, the Idaho Department of Education requires all Idaho teachers or administrators working on interim certificates, with an All Subjects (K-8) endorsement, any mathematics endorsement, Exceptional Child Generalist endorsement, Blended Early Childhood/Early Childhood Special Education endorsement, or Administrator certificate, must complete a state board approved Mathematical Thinking for Instruction, or another State Department of Education approved alternative course, as a one-time requirement for full certification.

In addition, the Idaho Department of Education requires out-of-state applicants to be reviewed by the hiring district for technology deficiencies and may be required to take technology courses to improve their technology skills. It is the student's responsibility to be aware of and meet the educational course requirements for the state in which they are applying for licensure.

Field Placement Requirements

The Idaho State Department of Education requires student teachers or any postsecondary candidates who have unsupervised contact with students in a public K-12 setting, complete a background check. This background check needs to be completed before student teaching can begin. The steps to applying for an Idaho background check are:
1. Request a fingerprint card, either via e-mail or picking one up from the Idaho State Department of Education.
2. Once the fingerprint packet is received, take the fingerprint card to the local police department or sheriff’s office to have prints rolled.
3. Then, submit the fingerprint packet with the following information to the Idaho Department of Education:
a. Background Investigation Check Form
b. State Department of Education Fingerprint Card
c. Fingerprint Processing fee
d. Initialed Instructions for Handling Fingerprint Cards form
e. Signed Noncriminal Justice Applicant Privacy Statement form

Students will need to complete two student teaching placements as a programmatic requirement. One student teaching placement will need to be in a Kindergarten-8th grade Elementary classroom and one student teaching placement will need to be in a Kindergarten-12th grade Special Education classroom.

Educator Content Exam Requirements

The state of Idaho requires one or more content exams for teacher licensure. A content exam assesses a student's knowledge of the subject they will be teaching. Per the policy in the GCU University Policy Handbook, students must pass their state-mandated basic skills and content area exams prior to applying for the clinical practice/student teaching experience. At the time of licensure, verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Educator Basic Skills Exam Requirements

The state of Idaho does not require a basic skills exam.

Educator Professional Knowledge Exam Requirements

edTPA Requirements

The edTPA is not required for out-of-state program completers in this state.

Illinois (IL)

Illinois

Professional Licensure Disclaimer

The information below pertains to individuals intending to obtain a Professional Educator License from Illinois. It will inform you of whether or not this program meets the educational requirements for this license in this state. This does not pertain to any other license issued by the state. Please be advised that state regulations and processes can change at any time, individuals are encouraged to monitor the state requirements for licensure throughout their education to ensure that the program will meet their intended career goals.

Arizona State Board/Department of Education Approval

Meets - Apply to state with valid AZ license

Based upon a review of the state’s regulations on 04/24/2024, this program appears to meet the educational requirements in this state. Graduates from this program are eligible to obtain a credential in this state if they have first obtained a credential from the professional licensing agency in Arizona. Graduates in these states will be required to provide an Arizona credential that is free of deficiencies to this state licensing board as part of the application process. To do so, graduates will have to meet all Arizona requirements for licensure prior to seeking licensure in this state.

Field Placement Requirements

The Illinois State Board of Education requires candidates who will be completing student teaching in the state of Illinois to authorize a fingerprint-based criminal history records check and checks of the Statewide Sex Offender Database and Statewide Child Murderer and Violent Offender Against Youth Database prior to participating in any field experiences in the public schools. Authorization for and payment of the costs of the checks must be furnished by the student teacher. Results of the checks must be furnished to the higher education institution where the student teacher is enrolled and the superintendent of the school district where the student is assigned.

Students will need to complete an Elementary student teaching placement in grades 1-6 as well as a Special Education student teaching placement in grades K-12 to meet the state's grade level requirements.

Educator Content Exam Requirements

Illinois requires one or more content exams for teacher licensure. A content exam assesses a student's knowledge of the subject they will be teaching. Per the policy in the GCU University Policy Handbook, students must pass their state-mandated basic skills and content area exams prior to applying for the clinical practice/student teaching experience. At the time of licensure, verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Educator Basic Skills Exam Requirements

Illinois does not have a basic skills exam requirement.

Educator Professional Knowledge Exam Requirements

edTPA Requirements

Illinois no longer requires the completion of the edTPA for applicants who apply directly to the Illinois State Board of Education. Candidates applying directly to ISBE need to have a valid AZ license and then apply via reciprocity to ISBE for the comparable Illinois license. The edTPA is a performance assessment that is comprised of artifacts and video submissions. The edTPA is worked on throughout student teaching with its submission being at the end of student teaching. The edTPA allows teacher candidates to demonstrate what they can and will do on the job through the ability to demonstrate effective teaching in all subject areas.

Indiana (IN)

Indiana

Professional Licensure Disclaimer

The information below pertains to individuals intending to obtain a Original Instructional License Out-of-State from Indiana. It will inform you of whether or not this program meets the educational requirements for this license in this state. This does not pertain to any other license issued by the state. Please be advised that state regulations and processes can change at any time, individuals are encouraged to monitor the state requirements for licensure throughout their education to ensure that the program will meet their intended career goals.

Arizona State Board/Department of Education Approval

Meets - May directly certify

Based upon a review of the state’s regulations on 05/01/2024, this program appears to meet the educational requirements to directly certify for licensure in this state.

Additional Training Requirements

The Indiana Department of Education requires an individual to complete education and training on the prevention of child suicide and the recognition of signs that a individual may be considering suicide. An initial teaching license (includes instructional, individual services and administrative licenses) will not be issued unless this requirement is met. The Indiana Department of Education also requires completion of CPR/AED/Heimlich certification within one (1) year of receiving an Indiana license. CPR-Heimlich Maneuver training may be delivered primarily online, but it must include a "hands-on" training/demonstration component with a mannequin.

Educator Content Exam Requirements

The state of Indiana requires one or more content exams for teacher licensure. A content exam assesses a student's knowledge of the subject they will be teaching. Per the policy in the GCU University Policy Handbook, students must pass their state-mandated basic skills and content area exams prior to applying for the clinical practice/student teaching experience. At the time of licensure, verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Educator Basic Skills Exam Requirements

The state of Indiana does not require a basic skills exam.

Educator Professional Knowledge Exam Requirements

The state of Indiana requires a professional knowledge exam for teacher licensure. A professional knowledge exam assesses a student's pedagogical knowledge for the certificate they are seeking. Verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown by the time of application for licensure. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

edTPA Requirements

The edTPA is not required for out-of-state program completers in this state.

Iowa (IA)

Iowa

Professional Licensure Disclaimer

The information below pertains to individuals intending to obtain a Regional Exchange License from Iowa. It will inform you of whether or not this program meets the educational requirements for this license in this state. This does not pertain to any other license issued by the state. Please be advised that state regulations and processes can change at any time, individuals are encouraged to monitor the state requirements for licensure throughout their education to ensure that the program will meet their intended career goals.

Arizona State Board/Department of Education Approval

Does Not Meet

Based upon a review of the state’s regulations on 05/09/2024, this program content does not meet the educational requirements for licensure in this state. Individuals may enroll in this program for general interest, however, the program will not lead to professional licensure in the state.

Additional Coursework Requirements

The Iowa Board of Educational Examiners requires an Elementary Education program to include specific coursework. Deficiencies for an Elementary Education Regional Exchange license will be identified by the Iowa Board of Educational Examiners upon an individual transcript review.

Depending upon coursework completed at any accredited college or university, students may also be deficient in the following content areas:

1) Six (6) semester hours of literacy including children's literature and literacy teaching methods

2) At least nine (9) semester hours of science including physical science, earth/space science, and life science

3) At least nine (9) semester hours of social science including history, geography, political science/civic literacy, economics, and behavioral sciences

4) Three (3) semester hours of mathematics in algebra/number patterns

Some of the credits listed above may be obtained through general education coursework or other previous college coursework. Only the Iowa Board of Educational Examiners can determine what meets the requirements.

Individuals can take this program for general interest.

Additional Training Requirements

The Iowa Board of Educational Examiners requires applicants to complete Mandatory Child and Dependent Adult Abuse Reporter Training. This training is not included in the GCU program of study. Verification of the completed training must be presented when applying for licensure . The mandatory training is offered for free online at the following website: https://educate.iowa.gov/educator-licensure/mandatory-reporter-training.

It is the student’s responsibility to be aware of and meet the training requirements for their state.

Field Placement Requirements

Students will need to complete at least two student teaching placements as a programmatic requirement. One student teaching placement will need to be in a Kindergarten-6th grade Elementary classroom. The second placement will depend on the grade range desired for Special Education licensure. Students wanting licensure in K-8 Special Education will need to complete their second student teaching placement in a K-8 Special Education classroom that represents 3 of 5 major disability areas. Students wanting licensure in K-8 and 5-12 Special Education, will need to complete their second student teaching placement in a K-8 Special Education classroom that represents 3 of 5 major disability areas. These students will also need to complete a third student teaching placement, that will take place outside of their program of study and will need to be in a 9-12 Special Education classroom that represents 3 of 5 major disability areas.

Professional Experience Requirements

In order to be eligible for an Instructional Strategist I endorsement through the Iowa Board of Educational Examiners, applicants must hold an initial teacher endorsement in either Elementary Education, Secondary Education, or Instructional Strategist II. More information can be found on the Iowa Board of Educational Examiners website at http://www.boee.iowa.gov/.

Educator Content Exam Requirements

The state of Iowa requires one or more content exams for teacher licensure. A content exam assesses a student's knowledge of the subject they will be teaching. Per the policy in the GCU University Policy Handbook, students must pass their state-mandated basic skills and content area exams prior to applying for the clinical practice/student teaching experience. At the time of licensure, verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Educator Basic Skills Exam Requirements

The state of Iowa does not require a basic skills exam.

Educator Professional Knowledge Exam Requirements

The state of Iowa requires a professional knowledge exam for teacher licensure. A professional knowledge exam assesses a student's pedagogical knowledge for the certificate they are seeking. Verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown by the time of application for licensure. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

edTPA Requirements

The edTPA is not required for out-of-state program completers in this state.

Kansas (KS)

Kansas

Professional Licensure Disclaimer

The information below pertains to individuals intending to obtain a Initial Teaching License from Kansas. It will inform you of whether or not this program meets the educational requirements for this license in this state. This does not pertain to any other license issued by the state. Please be advised that state regulations and processes can change at any time, individuals are encouraged to monitor the state requirements for licensure throughout their education to ensure that the program will meet their intended career goals.

Arizona State Board/Department of Education Approval

Meets - Apply to state with valid AZ license

Based upon a review of the state’s regulations on 03/19/2024, this program appears to meet the educational requirements in this state. Graduates from this program are eligible to obtain a credential in this state if they have first obtained a credential from the professional licensing agency in Arizona. Graduates in these states will be required to provide an Arizona credential that is free of deficiencies to this state licensing board as part of the application process. To do so, graduates will have to meet all Arizona requirements for licensure prior to seeking licensure in this state.

Field Placement Requirements

The Kansas Department of Education requires each individual that is serving as a student teacher in an accredited or approved teacher educational agency in Kansas to hold a valid student-teacher certificate. The student teaching certificate can be obtained from the college or university the student is completing a teacher preparation program. The student must be recommended to student teach by completing all requirements put forth by their college or university. The student should file a valid student-teacher certificate with their college or university that will be returned to them upon completion of student teaching. The copy of the student-teacher certificate shall be filed with the state board of education and with the teacher education institution.

Students will need to complete two student teaching placements as a programmatic requirement. One student teaching placement will need to be in a Kindergarten-6th grade Elementary classroom and one student teaching placement will need to be in a Kindergarten-12th grade Special Education classroom.

Educator Content Exam Requirements

The state of Kansas requires one or more content exams for teacher licensure. A content exam assesses a student's knowledge of the subject they will be teaching. Per the policy in the GCU University Policy Handbook, students must pass their state-mandated basic skills and content area exams prior to applying for the clinical practice/student teaching experience. At the time of licensure, verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Educator Basic Skills Exam Requirements

The state of Kansas does not require a basic skills exam.

Educator Professional Knowledge Exam Requirements

The state of Kansas NO LONGER requires a professional knowledge exam for teacher licensure. Kansas program completers and out-of-state program completers won’t be required to take the PLT pedagogy exam to qualify for a standard initial teaching license.

edTPA Requirements

The edTPA is not required for out-of-state program completers in this state.

Kentucky (KY)

Kentucky

Professional Licensure Disclaimer

The information below pertains to individuals intending to obtain a Statement of Eligibility from Kentucky. It will inform you of whether or not this program meets the educational requirements for this license in this state. This does not pertain to any other license issued by the state. Please be advised that state regulations and processes can change at any time, individuals are encouraged to monitor the state requirements for licensure throughout their education to ensure that the program will meet their intended career goals.

Arizona State Board/Department of Education Approval

Meets - Apply to state with valid AZ license

Based upon a review of the state’s regulations on 05/23/2024, this program appears to meet the educational requirements in this state. Graduates from this program are eligible to obtain a credential in this state if they have first obtained a credential from the professional licensing agency in Arizona. Graduates in these states will be required to provide an Arizona credential that is free of deficiencies to this state licensing board as part of the application process. To do so, graduates will have to meet all Arizona requirements for licensure prior to seeking licensure in this state.

Educator Content Exam Requirements

The state of Kentucky requires one or more content exams for teacher licensure. A content exam assesses a student's knowledge of the subject they will be teaching. Per the policy in the GCU University Policy Handbook, students must pass their state-mandated basic skills and content area exams prior to applying for the clinical practice/student teaching experience. At the time of licensure, verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Educator Basic Skills Exam Requirements

Kentucky does not require a basic skills exam for teacher licensure.

Educator Professional Knowledge Exam Requirements

Kentucky requires a professional knowledge exam for teacher licensure. A professional knowledge exam assess a students pedagogical knowledge for the certificate they are seeking. Verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown by the time of application for licensure. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

edTPA Requirements

The edTPA is not required for out-of-state program completers in this state.

State Agency Contact Disclosure

Licensure and certification requirements vary by state and may differ based upon the prior education and experience of the individual. Students are advised to contact the agency in the state in which they intend to pursue licensure to determine/confirm whether the course or program meets requirements for professional licensure in that state. If you wish to review your state’s licensure and certification requirements, the agency contact in your current location is:

Kentucky Education Professional Standards Board
300 Sower Blvd
Frankfort, KY, 40601
502-564-5846
http://www.epsb.ky.gov/

Louisiana (LA)

Louisiana

Professional Licensure Disclaimer

The information below pertains to individuals intending to obtain a Out-of-State Certificate from Louisiana. It will inform you of whether or not this program meets the educational requirements for this license in this state. This does not pertain to any other license issued by the state. Please be advised that state regulations and processes can change at any time, individuals are encouraged to monitor the state requirements for licensure throughout their education to ensure that the program will meet their intended career goals.

Arizona State Board/Department of Education Approval

Meets - May directly certify

Based upon a review of the state’s regulations on 05/29/2024, this program appears to meet the educational requirements to directly certify for licensure in this state.

Field Placement Requirements

Students will need to complete two student teaching placements as a programmatic requirement. One student teaching placement will need to be in a 1st-5th grade Elementary classroom and one student teaching placement will need to be in a 1st - 5th; 4th - 8th; or 6th - 12th grade Special Education classroom.

Educator Content Exam Requirements

The state of Louisiana does not require a content knowledge exam for initial teacher licensure. This state is testing deferred. Verification of passing scores for the basic skills exam will be needed when transiting to the next stage of licensure. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Educator Basic Skills Exam Requirements

The state of Louisiana does not require a basic skills exam for initial teacher licensure. This state is testing deferred. Verification of passing scores for the basic skills exam will be needed when transiting to the next stage of licensure. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Educator Professional Knowledge Exam Requirements

The state of Louisiana does not require a professional knowledge exam for initial teacher licensure. This state is testing deferred. Verification of passing scores for the basic skills exam will be needed when transiting to the next stage of licensure. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

edTPA Requirements

The edTPA is not required for out-of-state program completers in this state.

Maine (ME)

Maine

Professional Licensure Disclaimer

The information below pertains to individuals intending to obtain a Professional Teacher Certificate from Maine. It will inform you of whether or not this program meets the educational requirements for this license in this state. This does not pertain to any other license issued by the state. Please be advised that state regulations and processes can change at any time, individuals are encouraged to monitor the state requirements for licensure throughout their education to ensure that the program will meet their intended career goals.

Arizona State Board/Department of Education Approval

Meets - May directly certify

Based upon a review of the state’s regulations on 05/23/2024, this program appears to meet the educational requirements to directly certify for licensure in this state.

Educator Content Exam Requirements

Maine requires one or more content exams for teacher licensure. A content exam assesses a student's knowledge of the subject they will be teaching. Per the policy in the GCU University Policy Handbook, students must pass their state-mandated basic skills and content area exams prior to applying for the clinical practice/student teaching experience. At the time of licensure, verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Educator Basic Skills Exam Requirements

The state of Maine requires a basic skills exam for teacher licensure. The basic skills exam is one assessment broken up into three to four sub-tests; one for each content area. Verification of a passing score on this exam, all sub-tests, will need to be shown prior to student teaching. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Educator Professional Knowledge Exam Requirements

The state of Maine does not require a Professional Knowledge exam.

edTPA Requirements

The edTPA is not required for out-of-state program completers in this state.

Marshall Islands (MH)

Marshall Islands

Professional Licensure Disclaimer

The information below pertains to individuals intending to obtain a License/Certificate from Marshall Islands. It will inform you of whether or not this program meets the educational requirements for this license in this state. This does not pertain to any other license issued by the state. Please be advised that state regulations and processes can change at any time, individuals are encouraged to monitor the state requirements for licensure throughout their education to ensure that the program will meet their intended career goals.

Arizona State Board/Department of Education Approval

Unable to Determine

Based upon a review of the state’s regulations on 05/03/2024, Grand Canyon University is unable to determine if completion of this program meets educational requirements for licensure in Marshall Islands. Additionally, GCU is unaware of whether additional trainings, exams, or professional experience are required to obtain professional licensure in this location. Applicants are advised to seek additional information from the relevant professional licensing agency in the location which they seek employment.

Maryland (MD)

Maryland

Professional Licensure Disclaimer

The information below pertains to individuals intending to obtain a Standard Professional Certificate (SPC I), from Maryland. It will inform you of whether or not this program meets the educational requirements for this license in this state. This does not pertain to any other license issued by the state. Please be advised that state regulations and processes can change at any time, individuals are encouraged to monitor the state requirements for licensure throughout their education to ensure that the program will meet their intended career goals.

Arizona State Board/Department of Education Approval

Meets - May directly certify

Based upon a review of the state’s regulations on 09/21/2023, this program appears to meet the educational requirements to directly certify for licensure in this state.

Educator Content Exam Requirements

Maryland requires one or more content exams for teacher licensure. A content exam assesses a student's knowledge of the subject they will be teaching. Per the policy in the GCU University Policy Handbook, students must pass their state-mandated basic skills and content area exams prior to applying for the clinical practice/student teaching experience. At the time of licensure, verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Educator Basic Skills Exam Requirements

Maryland requires a basic skills exam for teacher licensure. The basic skills exam is one assessment broken up into three to four sub-tests; one for each content area. Verification of a passing score on this exam, all sub-tests, will need to be shown prior to student teaching. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Educator Professional Knowledge Exam Requirements

Maryland requires a professional knowledge exam for teacher licensure. A professional knowledge exam assesses a student's pedagogical knowledge for the certificate they are seeking. Verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown by the time of application for licensure. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

edTPA Requirements

The edTPA is not required for out-of-state program completers in this state.

Massachusetts (MA)

Massachusetts

Professional Licensure Disclaimer

The information below pertains to individuals intending to obtain a Provisional Teacher License from Massachusetts. It will inform you of whether or not this program meets the educational requirements for this license in this state. This does not pertain to any other license issued by the state. Please be advised that state regulations and processes can change at any time, individuals are encouraged to monitor the state requirements for licensure throughout their education to ensure that the program will meet their intended career goals.

Arizona State Board/Department of Education Approval

Licensure with Deficiencies

Based upon a review of the regulations on 10/09/2023, graduates from this program may obtain a license in the state. This state allows graduates from this program to obtain a license with specific deficiencies. The license provided will include additional conditions which the state requires the applicant to meet to maintain licensure. Individuals with specific questions about this state’s process or regulations are advised to contact the state board to determine if the program will meet the individual’s needs. The state contact information and any known additional coursework and/or training which will be required after licensure are outlined below.

Additional Coursework Requirements

Individuals applying for an initial license in Massachusetts must obtain the SEI endorsement. Grand Canyon University’s ESL courses do not align to Massachusetts standards or laws pertaining to English language learners. Individuals may be issued a Provisional license if they have not met the SEI requirement. The SEI requirement can be met through one of the following options: 1) completing a Massachusetts Dept. of Education approved course or 2) passing the MTEL SEI exam. It is the student’s responsibility to contact their state department of education regarding certification requirements in their state.

Educator Content Exam Requirements

The state of Massachusetts requires one or more content exams for teacher licensure. A content exam assesses a student's knowledge of the subject they will be teaching. Per the policy in the GCU University Policy Handbook, students must pass their state-mandated basic skills and content area exams prior to applying for the clinical practice/student teaching experience. At the time of licensure, verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Educator Basic Skills Exam Requirements

The state of Massachusetts requires a basic skills exam for teacher licensure. The basic skills exam is one assessment broken up into three to four subtests; one for each content area. Verification of a passing score on this exam, all subtests, will need to be shown prior to student teaching. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Educator Professional Knowledge Exam Requirements

The state of Massachusetts does not require a Professional Knowledge exam.

edTPA Requirements

The edTPA is not required for out-of-state program completers in this state.

Michigan (MI)

Michigan

Professional Licensure Disclaimer

The information below pertains to individuals intending to obtain a Standard Teaching Certificate from Michigan. It will inform you of whether or not this program meets the educational requirements for this license in this state. This does not pertain to any other license issued by the state. Please be advised that state regulations and processes can change at any time, individuals are encouraged to monitor the state requirements for licensure throughout their education to ensure that the program will meet their intended career goals.

Arizona State Board/Department of Education Approval

Meets - May directly certify

Based upon a review of the state’s regulations on 05/29/2024, this program appears to meet the educational requirements to directly certify for licensure in this state.

Additional Training Requirements

The Michigan Department of Education requires an individual to complete a course approved by the department in first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation, including a test demonstration on a mannequin, and has successfully completed instruction approved by the department in foreign body airway obstruction management, and holds valid certification in these topics issued by the American Red Cross, American Heart Association, or a comparable organization or institution approved by the department. Coursework must include first aid, adult CPR, and child CPR. This coursework may be offered by the American Heart Association (AHA), the American Red Cross (ARC), American Safety and Health Institute (ASHI), the Emergency Care & Safety Institute (ECSI), the Safety Council of Southeast Michigan (SCSM), the Lansing Area Safety Council (LASC), or Medic First Aid (MFA).

Educator Content Exam Requirements

The state of Michigan requires one or more content exams for teacher licensure. A content exam assesses a student's knowledge of the subject they will be teaching. Per the policy in the GCU University Policy Handbook, students must pass their state-mandated basic skills and content area exams prior to applying for the clinical practice/student teaching experience. At the time of licensure, verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Educator Basic Skills Exam Requirements

The state of Michigan does not require a basic skills exam.

Educator Professional Knowledge Exam Requirements

The state of Michigan does not require a professional knowledge exam.

edTPA Requirements

The edTPA is not required for out-of-state program completers in this state.

Minnesota (MN)

Minnesota

Professional Licensure Disclaimer

The information below pertains to individuals intending to obtain a Tier 3 License from Minnesota. It will inform you of whether or not this program meets the educational requirements for this license in this state. This does not pertain to any other license issued by the state. Please be advised that state regulations and processes can change at any time, individuals are encouraged to monitor the state requirements for licensure throughout their education to ensure that the program will meet their intended career goals.

Arizona State Board/Department of Education Approval

Meets - May directly certify

Based upon a review of the state’s regulations on 05/06/2024, this program appears to meet the educational requirements to directly certify for licensure in this state.

Field Placement Requirements

Educator Content Exam Requirements

The state of Minnesota requires one or more content exams for teacher licensure. A content exam assesses a student's knowledge of the subject they will be teaching. Per the policy in the GCU University Policy Handbook, students must pass their state-mandated basic skills and content area exams prior to applying for the clinical practice/student teaching experience. At the time of licensure, verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Educator Basic Skills Exam Requirements

The state of Minnesota does not require a basic skills exam for this level of teacher licensure.

Educator Professional Knowledge Exam Requirements

The state of Minnesota requires a professional knowledge exam for teacher licensure. A professional knowledge exam assesses a student's pedagogical knowledge for the certificate they are seeking. Verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown by the time of application for licensure. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

edTPA Requirements

The edTPA is not required for out-of-state program completers in this state.

Mississippi (MS)

Mississippi

Professional Licensure Disclaimer

The information below pertains to individuals intending to obtain a Class A License from Mississippi. It will inform you of whether or not this program meets the educational requirements for this license in this state. This does not pertain to any other license issued by the state. Please be advised that state regulations and processes can change at any time, individuals are encouraged to monitor the state requirements for licensure throughout their education to ensure that the program will meet their intended career goals.

Arizona State Board/Department of Education Approval

Meets - Apply to state with valid AZ license

Based upon a review of the state’s regulations on 05/16/2024, this program appears to meet the educational requirements in this state. Graduates from this program are eligible to obtain a credential in this state if they have first obtained a credential from the professional licensing agency in Arizona. Graduates in these states will be required to provide an Arizona credential that is free of deficiencies to this state licensing board as part of the application process. To do so, graduates will have to meet all Arizona requirements for licensure prior to seeking licensure in this state.

Educator Content Exam Requirements

Mississippi requires one or more content exams for teacher licensure. A content exam assesses a student's knowledge of the subject they will be teaching. Per the policy in the GCU University Policy Handbook, students must pass their state-mandated basic skills and content area exams prior to applying for the clinical practice/student teaching experience. At the time of licensure, verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Educator Basic Skills Exam Requirements

The state of Mississippi does not require a basic skills exam when certifying through Arizona first.

Educator Professional Knowledge Exam Requirements

Missouri (MO)

Missouri

Professional Licensure Disclaimer

The information below pertains to individuals intending to obtain a Initial Teacher Certificate from Missouri. It will inform you of whether or not this program meets the educational requirements for this license in this state. This does not pertain to any other license issued by the state. Please be advised that state regulations and processes can change at any time, individuals are encouraged to monitor the state requirements for licensure throughout their education to ensure that the program will meet their intended career goals.

Arizona State Board/Department of Education Approval

Meets - Apply to state with valid AZ license

Based upon a review of the state’s regulations on 04/18/2024, this program appears to meet the educational requirements in this state. Graduates from this program are eligible to obtain a credential in this state if they have first obtained a credential from the professional licensing agency in Arizona. Graduates in these states will be required to provide an Arizona credential that is free of deficiencies to this state licensing board as part of the application process. To do so, graduates will have to meet all Arizona requirements for licensure prior to seeking licensure in this state.

Field Placement Requirements

Students will need to complete two student teaching placements as a programmatic requirement. One student teaching placement will need to be in a 1st-6th grade Elementary classroom and one student teaching placement will need to be in a Kindergarten-12th grade Special Education classroom.

Educator Content Exam Requirements

The state of Missouri requires one or more content exams for teacher licensure. A content exam assesses a student's knowledge of the subject they will be teaching. Per the policy in the GCU University Policy Handbook, students must pass their state-mandated basic skills and content area exams prior to applying for the clinical practice/student teaching experience. At the time of licensure, verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Educator Basic Skills Exam Requirements

The state of Missouri does not require a basic skills exam.

Educator Professional Knowledge Exam Requirements

edTPA Requirements

The edTPA is not required for out-of-state program completers in this state.

Montana (MT)

Montana

Professional Licensure Disclaimer

The information below pertains to individuals intending to obtain a Class 5 Provisional Teacher License from Montana. It will inform you of whether or not this program meets the educational requirements for this license in this state. This does not pertain to any other license issued by the state. Please be advised that state regulations and processes can change at any time, individuals are encouraged to monitor the state requirements for licensure throughout their education to ensure that the program will meet their intended career goals.

Arizona State Board/Department of Education Approval

Meets - May directly certify

Based upon a review of the state’s regulations on 05/14/2024, this program appears to meet the educational requirements to directly certify for licensure in this state.

Additional Training Requirements

No additional training is needed to meet the requirements for licensure in this state.

Field Placement Requirements

Educator Content Exam Requirements

The state of Montana does not require a content knowledge exam for initial teacher licensure. This state is testing deferred. Verification of passing scores for the basic skills exam will be needed when transiting to the next stage of licensure. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Educator Basic Skills Exam Requirements

The state of Montana does not require a basic skills exam.

Educator Professional Knowledge Exam Requirements

The state of Montana does not require a professional knowledge exam.

Nebraska (NE)

Nebraska

Professional Licensure Disclaimer

The information below pertains to individuals intending to obtain a Initial Teaching Certificate from Nebraska. It will inform you of whether or not this program meets the educational requirements for this license in this state. This does not pertain to any other license issued by the state. Please be advised that state regulations and processes can change at any time, individuals are encouraged to monitor the state requirements for licensure throughout their education to ensure that the program will meet their intended career goals.

Arizona State Board/Department of Education Approval

Transcript Review Required

Based upon a review of the state’s regulations on 03/12/2024, an individual applicant’s transcripts are reviewed by the licensure agency in Nebraska to determine if the educational requirements for licensure have been met. In addition to educational attainment, the professional licensing agency may consider the applicant’s professional experience, level of educational attainment, background, criminal record, exam scores, etc., to determine if the individual applying for licensure meets the state requirements. Therefore, only the state can determine if the individual graduate meets the requirements for licensure. As a result, GCU cannot make that determination for the state. Individuals with specific questions about this state’s process or regulations are advised to contact the state board to determine if the program will meet the individual’s needs.

Additional Coursework Requirements

The Nebraska Department of Education requires applicants of an Elementary Education Endorsement to have 40 semester hours in prescribed coursework to include such content as child growth and development and instructional strategies. Students may need to take additional coursework outside of GCU's program. Licensure applicants who have completed an approved out-of-state program will go through a transcript analysis upon initial application. The Nebraska Department of Education will identify any coursework deficiencies during the transcript analysis.

The Nebraska Department of Education requires a Special Education Generalist K-12 endorsement applicant to have 51 semester hours of coursework. Of those 51 semester hours, 36 semester hours must be Special Education content coursework. Students may need to take additional coursework outside of GCU's program. Licensure applicants who have completed an approved out-of-state program will go through a transcript analysis upon initial application. The Nebraska Department of Education will identify any coursework deficiencies during the transcript analysis.

In addition, the Nebraska Department of Education requires Human Relations Training and a Special Education requirement for any person seeking certification in Nebraska

The Human Relations Training Requirements can be met in any of the following ways:

1. Take one of the pre-approved courses,
2. Take an educational course dealing with diversity in the classroom from a state approved teacher education institution and the course does not appear on the list of pre-approved courses, OR
3. Employment experience(s) with school age children which provided an opportunity to acquire the six skills to meet the Human Relations Training requirement and can verify acceptable employment experiences by writing a narrative that addresses each of the six skills.

A Temporary Permit, valid for six months, may be issued if the Human Relations Training Requirement is not met.

The Special Education Requirement can be met in any of the following ways:

1. Complete a special education course at an approved teacher education institution that addressed exceptional child in the classroom,
2. Employment experiences which provided an opportunity to acquire the five skills required and can verify acceptable employment experiences in which the required five skills were obtained and write a narrative that addresses each of the five skills, OR
3. Applicant has not met this requirement and may be eligible for a Provisional permit.

Educator Content Exam Requirements

The state of Nebraska requires one or more content exams for teacher licensure. A content exam assesses a student's knowledge of the subject they will be teaching. Per the policy in the GCU University Policy Handbook, students must pass their state-mandated basic skills and content area exams prior to applying for the clinical practice/student teaching experience. At the time of licensure, verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Educator Basic Skills Exam Requirements

The state of Nebraska does not require a basic skills exam to add this supplemental endorsement.

Educator Professional Knowledge Exam Requirements

The state of Nebraska does not require a professional knowledge exam.

Nevada (NV)

Nevada

Professional Licensure Disclaimer

The information below pertains to individuals intending to obtain a Initial Teacher Licensure from Nevada. It will inform you of whether or not this program meets the educational requirements for this license in this state. This does not pertain to any other license issued by the state. Please be advised that state regulations and processes can change at any time, individuals are encouraged to monitor the state requirements for licensure throughout their education to ensure that the program will meet their intended career goals.

Arizona State Board/Department of Education Approval

Meets - Apply to state with valid AZ license

Additional Coursework Requirements

The Nevada Department of Education requires the following courses in order to meet the requirements for a Special Education K-12 certificate:

-Educational psychology;
-Human Growth and Development

GCU's Bachelors of Science In Elementary and Special Education program does not include the above courses. Additional courses may need to be taken outside of the student's program. It is the student's responsibility to be aware of and meet the educational course requirements for their state.

Field Placement Requirements

Educator Content Exam Requirements

The state of Nevada requires one or more content exams for teacher licensure. A content exam assesses a student's knowledge of the subject they will be teaching. Per the policy in the GCU University Policy Handbook, students must pass their state-mandated basic skills and content area exams prior to applying for the clinical practice/student teaching experience. At the time of licensure, verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Educator Basic Skills Exam Requirements

The state of Nevada does not require a basic skills exam when certifying through Arizona first.

Educator Professional Knowledge Exam Requirements

New Hampshire (NH)

New Hampshire

Professional Licensure Disclaimer

The information below pertains to individuals intending to obtain a Beginning Educator Certificate from New Hampshire. It will inform you of whether or not this program meets the educational requirements for this license in this state. This does not pertain to any other license issued by the state. Please be advised that state regulations and processes can change at any time, individuals are encouraged to monitor the state requirements for licensure throughout their education to ensure that the program will meet their intended career goals.

Arizona State Board/Department of Education Approval

Meets - May directly certify

Based upon a review of the state’s regulations on 05/07/2024, this program appears to meet the educational requirements to directly certify for licensure in this state.

Professional Experience Requirements

In order to be eligible for a certificate in Special Education by the New Hampshire Department of Education, applicants must already be certified as an elementary/secondary general special education teacher for children age 5 up to age 21. It is the student’s responsibility to be aware of and meet the requirements for a certificate in Special Education.

Educator Content Exam Requirements

The state of New Hampshire requires one or more content exams for teacher licensure. A content exam assesses a student's knowledge of the subject they will be teaching. Per the policy in the GCU University Policy Handbook, students must pass their state-mandated basic skills and content area exams prior to applying for the clinical practice/student teaching experience. At the time of licensure, verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Educator Basic Skills Exam Requirements

The state of New Hampshire requires a basic skills exam for teacher licensure. The basic skills exam is one assessment broken up into three to four subtests; one for each content area. Verification of a passing score on this exam, all subtests, will need to be shown prior to student teaching. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Educator Professional Knowledge Exam Requirements

The state of New Hampshire does not require a professional knowledge exam.

New Jersey (NJ)

New Jersey

Professional Licensure Disclaimer

The information below pertains to individuals intending to obtain a Certificates of Eligibility with Advanced Standing (CEAS) Certificate from New Jersey. It will inform you of whether or not this program meets the educational requirements for this license in this state. This does not pertain to any other license issued by the state. Please be advised that state regulations and processes can change at any time, individuals are encouraged to monitor the state requirements for licensure throughout their education to ensure that the program will meet their intended career goals.

Arizona State Board/Department of Education Approval

Meets - Apply to state with valid AZ license

Based upon a review of the state’s regulations on 04/22/2024, this program appears to meet the educational requirements in this state. Graduates from this program are eligible to obtain a credential in this state if they have first obtained a credential from the professional licensing agency in Arizona. Graduates in these states will be required to provide an Arizona credential that is free of deficiencies to this state licensing board as part of the application process. To do so, graduates will have to meet all Arizona requirements for licensure prior to seeking licensure in this state.

Additional Training Requirements

The New Jersey Department of Education requires an examination in physiology, hygiene and substance abuse issues. This requirement may be completed by presenting evidence of basic military training; OR by completing a course such as biology, health or nutrition that appears on a regionally accredited two- or four-year college or university transcript; OR by completing a 35-question true/false test administered in the county office of education. Individuals must meet this requirement prior to applying for certification.

Educator Content Exam Requirements

The state of New Jersey requires one or more content exams for teacher licensure. A content exam assesses a student's knowledge of the subject they will be teaching. Per the policy in the GCU University Policy Handbook, students must pass their state-mandated basic skills and content area exams prior to applying for the clinical practice/student teaching experience. At the time of licensure, verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Educator Basic Skills Exam Requirements

The state of New Jersey requires a basic skills exam for teacher licensure. The basic skills exam is one assessment broken up into three to four subtests; one for each content area. Verification of a passing score on this exam, all subtests, will need to be shown prior to student teaching. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Educator Professional Knowledge Exam Requirements

The state of New Jersey does not require a professional knowledge exam.

New Mexico (NM)

New Mexico

Professional Licensure Disclaimer

The information below pertains to individuals intending to obtain a Out of State (1CS) License from New Mexico. It will inform you of whether or not this program meets the educational requirements for this license in this state. This does not pertain to any other license issued by the state. Please be advised that state regulations and processes can change at any time, individuals are encouraged to monitor the state requirements for licensure throughout their education to ensure that the program will meet their intended career goals.

Arizona State Board/Department of Education Approval

Meets - Apply to state with valid AZ license

Based upon a review of the state’s regulations on 05/14/2024, this program appears to meet the educational requirements in this state. Graduates from this program are eligible to obtain a credential in this state if they have first obtained a credential from the professional licensing agency in Arizona. Graduates in these states will be required to provide an Arizona credential that is free of deficiencies to this state licensing board as part of the application process. To do so, graduates will have to meet all Arizona requirements for licensure prior to seeking licensure in this state.

Field Placement Requirements

Educator Content Exam Requirements

The state of New Mexico does not require a content exam when applicants are applying via reciprocity.

Educator Basic Skills Exam Requirements

The state of New Mexico does not require a basic skills exam when applicants are applying via reciprocity.

Educator Professional Knowledge Exam Requirements

The state of New Mexico does not require a professional knowledge exam when applicants are applying via reciprocity.

New York (NY)

New York

Professional Licensure Disclaimer

The information below pertains to individuals intending to obtain a Initial Certificate from New York. It will inform you of whether or not this program meets the educational requirements for this license in this state. This does not pertain to any other license issued by the state. Please be advised that state regulations and processes can change at any time, individuals are encouraged to monitor the state requirements for licensure throughout their education to ensure that the program will meet their intended career goals.

Arizona State Board/Department of Education Approval

Transcript Review Required

Based upon a review of the state’s regulations on 06/05/2024, an individual applicant’s transcripts are reviewed by the licensure agency in New York to determine if the educational requirements for licensure have been met. In addition to educational attainment, the professional licensing agency may consider the applicant’s professional experience, level of educational attainment, background, criminal record, exam scores, etc., to determine if the individual applying for licensure meets the state requirements. Therefore, only the state can determine if the individual graduate meets the requirements for licensure. As a result, GCU cannot make that determination for the state. Individuals with specific questions about this state’s process or regulations are advised to contact the state board to determine if the program will meet the individual’s needs.

Availability of Equivalent Credential

The New York State Education Department will determine if GCU's program is equivalent to a certificate in this state once a transcript evaluation is completed.

Additional Coursework Requirements

No additional coursework is needed to meet the requirements for licensure in this state.

** PER NYSED if the candidate completed a comparable, approved educator preparation program in the same subject in another state, they should be selecting the “Completion of a Comparable Educator Program in Another U.S. State” pathway. They should not be selecting the Individual Evaluation pathway. **

Additional Training Requirements

The New York State Education Department requires completion of the following:
- Workshop - Child Abuse Identification
- Workshop - School Violence Intervention and Prevention
- Workshop - Autism
- Workshop - Dignity For All Students Act

The training outlined above must be completed prior to applying for certification in New York.

Educator Content Exam Requirements

The state of New York requires one or more content exams for teacher licensure. A content exam assesses a student's knowledge of the subject they will be teaching. Per the policy in the GCU University Policy Handbook, students must pass their state-mandated basic skills and content area exams prior to applying for the clinical practice/student teaching experience. At the time of licensure, verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Educator Basic Skills Exam Requirements

The state of New York does not require a basic skills exam.

Educator Professional Knowledge Exam Requirements

The state of New York requires a professional knowledge exam for teacher licensure. A professional knowledge exam assesses a student's pedagogical knowledge for the certificate they are seeking. Verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown by the time of application for licensure. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

North Carolina (NC)

North Carolina

Professional Licensure Disclaimer

The information below pertains to individuals intending to obtain a Initial Professional License from North Carolina. It will inform you of whether or not this program meets the educational requirements for this license in this state. This does not pertain to any other license issued by the state. Please be advised that state regulations and processes can change at any time, individuals are encouraged to monitor the state requirements for licensure throughout their education to ensure that the program will meet their intended career goals.

Arizona State Board/Department of Education Approval

Meets - May directly certify

Based upon a review of the state’s regulations on 05/02/2024, this program appears to meet the educational requirements to directly certify for licensure in this state.

Educator Content Exam Requirements

The North Carolina Department of Public Instruction requires one or more content exams for teacher licensure. A content exam assesses a student's knowledge of the subject they will be teaching. Per the policy in the GCU University Policy Handbook, students must pass their state-mandated basic skills and content area exams prior to applying for the clinical practice/student teaching experience. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Educator Basic Skills Exam Requirements

The state of North Carolina does not require a basic skills exam for students prepared in programs outside of North Carolina.

Educator Professional Knowledge Exam Requirements

The state of North Carolina does not require a professional knowledge exam.

North Dakota (ND)

North Dakota

Professional Licensure Disclaimer

The information below pertains to individuals intending to obtain a Other State Educator License (OSEL) from North Dakota. It will inform you of whether or not this program meets the educational requirements for this license in this state. This does not pertain to any other license issued by the state. Please be advised that state regulations and processes can change at any time, individuals are encouraged to monitor the state requirements for licensure throughout their education to ensure that the program will meet their intended career goals.

Arizona State Board/Department of Education Approval

Meets - Apply to state with valid AZ license

Based upon a review of the state’s regulations on 03/13/2024, this program appears to meet the educational requirements in this state. Graduates from this program are eligible to obtain a credential in this state if they have first obtained a credential from the professional licensing agency in Arizona. Graduates in these states will be required to provide an Arizona credential that is free of deficiencies to this state licensing board as part of the application process. To do so, graduates will have to meet all Arizona requirements for licensure prior to seeking licensure in this state.

Field Placement Requirements

Students will need to complete two student teaching placements as a programmatic requirement. One student teaching placement will need to be in a 1st-8th grade Elementary classroom and one student teaching placement will need to be in a Kindergarten-12th grade Special Education classroom.

Educator Content Exam Requirements

The state of North Dakota requires one or more content exams for teacher licensure. A content exam assesses a student's knowledge of the subject they will be teaching. Per the policy in the GCU University Policy Handbook, students must pass their state-mandated basic skills and content area exams prior to applying for the clinical practice/student teaching experience. At the time of licensure, verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Educator Basic Skills Exam Requirements

North Dakota Licensure for all areas requires:

Core Academic Skills for Educators: Reading #5713
Minimum Passing Score: 156*

Core Academic Skills for Educators: Writing #5723
Minimum Passing Score: 160*

Core Academic Skills for Educators: Mathematics #5733
Minimum Passing Score: 150*

Core Academic Skills: Applicants must meet individual qualifying scores in Reading (156), Writing (160, and Math (150) OR meet a composite score of 466 with no score being below the minimum set for teach test.

Core Academic Skills for Educators: Reading — minimum score 149
Core Academic Skills for Educators: Writing — minimum score 153
Core Academic Skills for Educators: Mathematics — minimum score 143

All test takers who have passed the Praxis Core prior to September 1, 2018, will be considered "passed" and do not need to retake the test.

Educator Professional Knowledge Exam Requirements

The state of North Dakota requires a professional knowledge exam for teacher licensure. A professional knowledge exam assesses a student's pedagogical knowledge for the certificate they are seeking. Verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown by the time of application for licensure. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Northern Mariana Islands (MP)

Northern Mariana Islands

Professional Licensure Disclaimer

The information below pertains to individuals intending to obtain a Basic I Teacher License from Northern Mariana Islands. It will inform you of whether or not this program meets the educational requirements for this license in this state. This does not pertain to any other license issued by the state. Please be advised that state regulations and processes can change at any time, individuals are encouraged to monitor the state requirements for licensure throughout their education to ensure that the program will meet their intended career goals.

Arizona State Board/Department of Education Approval

Meets - May directly certify

Based upon a review of the state’s regulations on 06/04/2024, this program appears to meet the educational requirements to directly certify for licensure in this state.

Additional Coursework Requirements

The Northern Marianas Department of Education CNMI Public School System requires applicants of the Classroom Teacher Basic I certificate to have completed a bachelor’s degree or higher. GCU’s College of Education initial teacher licensure programs meets this requirement.

The Northern Marianas Department of Education CNMI Public School System requires applicants of the next levels of licensure, Classroom Teacher Basic II and Classroom Teacher Standard certificates, to have completed prescribed coursework. The required coursework will be determined on a case-by-case basis after a transcript review has been completed. Coursework requirements may have been met in students’ undergraduate programs. Students may need to take additional coursework outside of GCU's program to meet the requirements for the next level of licensure.

Educator Content Exam Requirements

The Northern Mariana Islands requires one or more content exams for teacher licensure. A content exam assesses a student's knowledge of the subject they will be teaching. Per the policy in the GCU University Policy Handbook, students must pass their state-mandated basic skills and content area exams prior to applying for the clinical practice/student teaching experience. At the time of licensure, verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Educator Basic Skills Exam Requirements

The Northern Mariana Islands requires a basic skills exam for teacher licensure. The basic skills exam is one assessment broken up into three to four subtests; one for each content area. Verification of a passing score on this exam, all subtests, will need to be shown prior to student teaching. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Educator Professional Knowledge Exam Requirements

This Northern Mariana Islands a professional knowledge exam for teacher licensure. A professional knowledge exam assesses a student's pedagogical knowledge for the certificate they are seeking. Verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown by the time of application for licensure. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Ohio (OH)

Ohio

Professional Licensure Disclaimer

The information below pertains to individuals intending to obtain a 2-Year Resident Educator License from Ohio. It will inform you of whether or not this program meets the educational requirements for this license in this state. This does not pertain to any other license issued by the state. Please be advised that state regulations and processes can change at any time, individuals are encouraged to monitor the state requirements for licensure throughout their education to ensure that the program will meet their intended career goals.

Arizona State Board/Department of Education Approval

Does Not Meet

Based upon a review of the state’s regulations on 06/06/2024, this program content does not meet the educational requirements for licensure in this state. Individuals may enroll in this program for general interest, however, the program will not lead to professional licensure in the state.

Additional Coursework Requirements

The Ohio Department of Education requires a minimum of 12 credits (9 reading credits/3 phonics credits) to qualify for a Standard teaching license. A Resident Educator License may be issued by the Ohio Department of Education to applicants who have a minimum of 6 credits in reading. This program only contains 3 credits of reading coursework. Individuals will need to take an additional 3 credits outside of this program to obtain the Resident Educator License.

Educator Content Exam Requirements

The state of Ohio requires one or more content exams for teacher licensure. A content exam assesses a student's knowledge of the subject they will be teaching. Per the policy in the GCU University Policy Handbook, students must pass their state-mandated basic skills and content area exams prior to applying for the clinical practice/student teaching experience. At the time of licensure, verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown.

Educator Basic Skills Exam Requirements

The state of Ohio does not require a basic skills exam.

Educator Professional Knowledge Exam Requirements

The state of Ohio requires a professional knowledge exam for teacher licensure. A professional knowledge exam assesses a student's pedagogical knowledge for the certificate they are seeking. Verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown by the time of application for licensure. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Oklahoma (OK)

Oklahoma

Professional Licensure Disclaimer

The information below pertains to individuals intending to obtain a Standard Teaching Certificate from Oklahoma. It will inform you of whether or not this program meets the educational requirements for this license in this state. This does not pertain to any other license issued by the state. Please be advised that state regulations and processes can change at any time, individuals are encouraged to monitor the state requirements for licensure throughout their education to ensure that the program will meet their intended career goals.

Arizona State Board/Department of Education Approval

Meets - Apply to state with valid AZ license

Based upon a review of the state’s regulations on 05/13/2024, this program appears to meet the educational requirements in this state. Graduates from this program are eligible to obtain a credential in this state if they have first obtained a credential from the professional licensing agency in Arizona. Graduates in these states will be required to provide an Arizona credential that is free of deficiencies to this state licensing board as part of the application process. To do so, graduates will have to meet all Arizona requirements for licensure prior to seeking licensure in this state.

Field Placement Requirements

Students will need to complete two student teaching placements as a programmatic requirement. One student teaching placement will need to be in a 1st-8th Elementary classroom and one student teaching placement will need to be in a Kindergarten-12th grade Special Education classroom.

Educator Content Exam Requirements

The state of Oklahoma requires one or more content exams for teacher licensure. A content exam assesses a student's knowledge of the subject they will be teaching. Per the policy in the GCU University Policy Handbook, students must pass their state-mandated basic skills and content area exams prior to applying for the clinical practice/student teaching experience. At the time of licensure, verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Educator Basic Skills Exam Requirements

The state of Oklahoma does not require a basic skills exam.

Educator Professional Knowledge Exam Requirements

Oregon (OR)

Oregon

Professional Licensure Disclaimer

The information below pertains to individuals intending to obtain a Reciprocal Teaching License from Oregon. It will inform you of whether or not this program meets the educational requirements for this license in this state. This does not pertain to any other license issued by the state. Please be advised that state regulations and processes can change at any time, individuals are encouraged to monitor the state requirements for licensure throughout their education to ensure that the program will meet their intended career goals.

Arizona State Board/Department of Education Approval

Meets - Apply to state with valid AZ license

Based upon a review of the state’s regulations on 05/15/2024, this program appears to meet the educational requirements in this state. Graduates from this program are eligible to obtain a credential in this state if they have first obtained a credential from the professional licensing agency in Arizona. Graduates in these states will be required to provide an Arizona credential that is free of deficiencies to this state licensing board as part of the application process. To do so, graduates will have to meet all Arizona requirements for licensure prior to seeking licensure in this state.

Additional Training Requirements

The Oregon Teacher Standards and Practices Commission requires all applicants to take and pass the exam "Protecting Student and Civil Rights in the Educational Environment". When applying to the Oregon Department of Education via reciprocity, the student may receive a Reciprocal Teaching License valid for one year from the date of issue. Students must show verification a passing score on the above exam before the expiration of the Reciprocal Teaching License.

Field Placement Requirements

An Oregon fingerprint clearance/background check needs to be completed before practicum can begin. Oregon law requires student teachers, educators, school nurses and out-of-state student teachers in Oregon schools to be fingerprinted. Fingerprinting includes both an Oregon State Police (OSP) and FBI background check. Background checks take place once fingerprints have been taken at a Fieldprint office. Fingerprints are valid for 3 years from the fingerprint clearance date.

1. Enroll on Fieldprint’s website
2. Enter the information required by the state of Oregon onto Fieldprint’s website.
- Entering this information upon enrollment means this information will not need to be collected again at the time of fingerprinting.
3. Schedule an appointment online by choosing the date, time and nearest Fieldprint location
4. When arriving for the appointment bring:
a. The appointment number
b. Two forms of ID such as a driver’s license or passport
5. Fingerprints are collected electronically
6. Fingerprints are submitted to the state by FieldPrint

Students will need to complete two student teaching placements as a programmatic requirement. One student teaching placement will need to be in a Kindergarten-8th grade Elementary classroom and one student teaching placement will need to be in a Kindergarten-12th grade Special Education classroom.

Educator Content Exam Requirements

The state of Oregon requires one or more content exams for teacher licensure. A content exam assesses a student's knowledge of the subject they will be teaching. Per the policy in the GCU University Policy Handbook, students must pass their state-mandated basic skills and content area exams prior to applying for the clinical practice/student teaching experience. At the time of licensure, verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Educator Basic Skills Exam Requirements

The state of Oregon does not require a basic skills exam.

Educator Professional Knowledge Exam Requirements

Pennsylvania (PA)

Pennsylvania

Professional Licensure Disclaimer

The information below pertains to individuals intending to obtain a Instructional Certificate from Pennsylvania. It will inform you of whether or not this program meets the educational requirements for this license in this state. This does not pertain to any other license issued by the state. Please be advised that state regulations and processes can change at any time, individuals are encouraged to monitor the state requirements for licensure throughout their education to ensure that the program will meet their intended career goals.

Arizona State Board/Department of Education Approval

Meets - May directly certify

Based upon a review of the state’s regulations on 09/07/2023, this program appears to meet the educational requirements to directly certify for licensure in this state.

Field Placement Requirements

Pennsylvania School Law requires all applicants of employment in Pennsylvania public and private schools, student teacher candidates, and employees of independent contractors seeking business with public and private schools to undergo background checks if the person will have direct contact with students. Pennsylvania background checks are composed of three different background checks. All three checks are needed to meet this requirement.
1.) Department of Human Services Child Abuse History Clearance
2.) Pennsylvania State Police Request for Criminal Records Check
3.) Federal Criminal History Record Information (CHRI)

Students will need to complete an Elementary student teaching placement in grades K-4 or 4-8 as well as a Special Education student teaching placement in grades K-12 to meet the state's grade level requirements.

Educator Content Exam Requirements

The state of Pennsylvania requires one or more content exams for teacher licensure. A content exam assesses a student's knowledge of the subject they will be teaching. Per the policy in the GCU University Policy Handbook, students must pass their state-mandated basic skills and content area exams prior to applying for the clinical practice/student teaching experience. At the time of licensure, verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Educator Basic Skills Exam Requirements

The state of Pennsylvania has temporarily waived the basic skills exam requirement.

Educator Professional Knowledge Exam Requirements

The state of Pennsylvania does not require a professional knowledge exam.

Puerto Rico (PR)

Puerto Rico

Professional Licensure Disclaimer

The information below pertains to individuals intending to obtain a Regular Certificate from Puerto Rico. It will inform you of whether or not this program meets the educational requirements for this license in this state. This does not pertain to any other license issued by the state. Please be advised that state regulations and processes can change at any time, individuals are encouraged to monitor the state requirements for licensure throughout their education to ensure that the program will meet their intended career goals.

Arizona State Board/Department of Education Approval

Does Not Meet

Based upon a review of the state’s regulations on 05/28/2024, this program content does not meet the educational requirements for licensure in this state. Individuals may enroll in this program for general interest, however, the program will not lead to professional licensure in the state.

Additional Coursework Requirements

The Puerto Rico Department of Education requires that individuals seeking a Certificate complete specific courses. GCU's program does not meet the educational requirements to fulfill Puerto Rico's requirements.

Republic of Palau (PW)

Republic of Palau

Professional Licensure Disclaimer

The information below pertains to individuals intending to obtain a License/Credential from Republic of Palau. It will inform you of whether or not this program meets the educational requirements for this license in this state. This does not pertain to any other license issued by the state. Please be advised that state regulations and processes can change at any time, individuals are encouraged to monitor the state requirements for licensure throughout their education to ensure that the program will meet their intended career goals.

Arizona State Board/Department of Education Approval

Unable to Determine

Based upon a review of the state’s regulations on 04/19/2024, Grand Canyon University is unable to determine if completion of this program meets educational requirements for licensure in Republic of Palau. Additionally, GCU is unaware of whether additional trainings, exams, or professional experience are required to obtain professional licensure in this location. Applicants are advised to seek additional information from the relevant professional licensing agency in the location which they seek employment.

Rhode Island (RI)

Rhode Island

Professional Licensure Disclaimer

The information below pertains to individuals intending to obtain a Initial Educator Certificate from Rhode Island. It will inform you of whether or not this program meets the educational requirements for this license in this state. This does not pertain to any other license issued by the state. Please be advised that state regulations and processes can change at any time, individuals are encouraged to monitor the state requirements for licensure throughout their education to ensure that the program will meet their intended career goals.

Arizona State Board/Department of Education Approval

Meets - May directly certify

Based upon a review of the state’s regulations on 04/26/2024, this program appears to meet the educational requirements to directly certify for licensure in this state.

Field Placement Requirements

Rhode Island requires a Student Teaching permit. This permit is required prior to being placed for student teaching. Please contact your Field Experience Counselor for further information. Students will need to complete an Elementary student teaching placement in grades 1-6 as well as a Special Education student teaching placement in grades 1-6 or grades 7-12 to meet the state's grade level requirements.

Professional Experience Requirements

RI Special Education RequirementEffective January 1, 2015 for Special Education Certification, a new applicant who seeks Special Education certification must hold a General Education certification at a specific grade level to receive a corresponding Special Education certification (e.g. Elementary Education to receive Elementary Special Education, Secondary Education to receive Secondary Special Education). More information can be found at the Rhode Island Department of Elementary and Secondary Education website at http://www.ride.ri.gov/.

Educator Content Exam Requirements

The state of Rhode Island requires one or more content exams for teacher licensure. A content exam assesses a student's knowledge of the subject they will be teaching. Per the policy in the GCU University Policy Handbook, students must pass their state-mandated basic skills and content area exams prior to applying for the clinical practice/student teaching experience. At the time of licensure, verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Educator Basic Skills Exam Requirements

The state of Rhode Island does not require a basic skills exam.

Educator Professional Knowledge Exam Requirements

The state of Rhode Island does not require a professional knowledge exam.

South Carolina (SC)

South Carolina

Professional Licensure Disclaimer

The information below pertains to individuals intending to obtain a Initial Certificate from South Carolina. It will inform you of whether or not this program meets the educational requirements for this license in this state. This does not pertain to any other license issued by the state. Please be advised that state regulations and processes can change at any time, individuals are encouraged to monitor the state requirements for licensure throughout their education to ensure that the program will meet their intended career goals.

Arizona State Board/Department of Education Approval

Meets - May directly certify

Based upon a review of the state’s regulations on 09/26/2023, this program appears to meet the educational requirements to directly certify for licensure in this state.

Field Placement Requirements

Students will need to complete an Elementary student teaching placement in grades 2-6 as well as a Special Education student teaching placement in grades K-12 to meet the state's grade level requirements.

GCU students will also need to apply for a Student Teaching or Clinical Experience Clearance. The steps to apply for a Student Teaching or Clinical Experience Clearance are:

1. Review the required timelines for the application process. All required application materials must be on file with SCDE not late than:
a. February 15 for student teaching and clinical experiences beginning in the fall semester of that calendar year.
b. June 15 for student teaching and clinical experiences beginning in the spring semester of the next calendar year.
1. Create a use account through the SCDE Educator Portal using a personal email address.
2. Complete the Application for Student Teaching Clearance in the Educator Portal.
3. Submit the non-refundable $105 Processing Fee online through the Educator Portal.
4. Complete the Fingerprinting Process and Criminal Records Review.

If enrolled in an online program offered by an out-of-state institution of higher education, applicants must submit a program description attached to a Request for Change/Action Form to be evaluated for program pre-approval. Please reach out to your Field Experience Counselor (FEC) to request an OAR credential review document.

Educator Content Exam Requirements

The state of South Carolina requires one or more content exams for teacher licensure. A content exam assesses a student's knowledge of the subject they will be teaching. Per the policy in the GCU University Policy Handbook, students must pass their state-mandated basic skills and content area exams prior to applying for the clinical practice/student teaching experience. At the time of licensure, verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Educator Basic Skills Exam Requirements

The state of South Carolina does not require a basic skills exam.

Educator Professional Knowledge Exam Requirements

The state of South Carolina requires a professional knowledge exam for teacher licensure. A professional knowledge exam assesses a student's pedagogical knowledge for the certificate they are seeking. Verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown by the time of application for licensure. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

South Dakota (SD)

South Dakota

Professional Licensure Disclaimer

The information below pertains to individuals intending to obtain a Provisional Teacher License from South Dakota. It will inform you of whether or not this program meets the educational requirements for this license in this state. This does not pertain to any other license issued by the state. Please be advised that state regulations and processes can change at any time, individuals are encouraged to monitor the state requirements for licensure throughout their education to ensure that the program will meet their intended career goals.

Arizona State Board/Department of Education Approval

Meets - Apply to state with valid AZ license

Based upon a review of the state’s regulations on 05/06/2024, this program appears to meet the educational requirements in this state. Graduates from this program are eligible to obtain a credential in this state if they have first obtained a credential from the professional licensing agency in Arizona. Graduates in these states will be required to provide an Arizona credential that is free of deficiencies to this state licensing board as part of the application process. To do so, graduates will have to meet all Arizona requirements for licensure prior to seeking licensure in this state.

Additional Coursework Requirements

The South Dakota Department of Education requires all applicants show verification of successful completion of an approved three-credit South Dakota Indian studies course. Students applying to the South Dakota Department of Education via reciprocity will be given a one year Provisional Certificate. The student is expected to complete the South Dakota Indian studies course before the expiration of the Provisional Certificate. For students applying directly to South Dakota Department of Education, all content exams as well as the South Indian Studies course will need to be completed before applying for certification. Students will need to take additional coursework outside of GCU's program in order to meet this requirement. It is the student's responsibility to be aware of and meet the educational requirements for their state.

Additional Training Requirements

The South Dakota Department of Education requires all applicants to show verification of successful completion of one clock hour of approved Suicide Awareness and Prevention Training. This training needs to be complete before applying for certification. Information on approved online Suicide Awareness and Prevention Training can be found on the SDDOE website at https://doe.sd.gov/suicideprevention/. It is the student’s responsibility to be aware of and meet the training requirements for their state.

Field Placement Requirements

Educator Content Exam Requirements

The state of South Dakota requires one or more content exams for teacher licensure. A content exam assesses a student's knowledge of the subject they will be teaching. Per the policy in the GCU University Policy Handbook, students must pass their state-mandated basic skills and content area exams prior to applying for the clinical practice/student teaching experience. At the time of licensure, verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Educator Basic Skills Exam Requirements

The state of South Dakota does not require a basic skills exam.

Educator Professional Knowledge Exam Requirements

The state of South Dakota requires a professional knowledge exam for teacher licensure. A professional knowledge exam assesses a student's pedagogical knowledge for the certificate they are seeking. Verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown by the time of application for licensure. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Tennessee (TN)

Tennessee

Professional Licensure Disclaimer

The information below pertains to individuals intending to obtain a Practitioner License from Tennessee. It will inform you of whether or not this program meets the educational requirements for this license in this state. This does not pertain to any other license issued by the state. Please be advised that state regulations and processes can change at any time, individuals are encouraged to monitor the state requirements for licensure throughout their education to ensure that the program will meet their intended career goals.

Arizona State Board/Department of Education Approval

Meets - May directly certify

Based upon a review of the state’s regulations on 05/13/2024, this program appears to meet the educational requirements to directly certify for licensure in this state.

Educator Content Exam Requirements

Tennessee requires one or more content exams for teacher licensure. A content exam assesses a student's knowledge of the subject they will be teaching. Per the policy in the GCU University Policy Handbook, students must pass their state-mandated basic skills and content area exams prior to applying for the clinical practice/student teaching experience. At the time of licensure, verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Educator Basic Skills Exam Requirements

The state of Tennessee does not require a basic skills exam.

Educator Professional Knowledge Exam Requirements

Tennessee requires a professional knowledge exam for teacher licensure. A professional knowledge exam assesses a student's pedagogical knowledge for the certificate they are seeking. Verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown by the time of application for licensure. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Texas (TX)

Texas

Professional Licensure Disclaimer

The information below pertains to individuals intending to obtain a Standard Teaching Certificate from Texas. It will inform you of whether or not this program meets the educational requirements for this license in this state. This does not pertain to any other license issued by the state. Please be advised that state regulations and processes can change at any time, individuals are encouraged to monitor the state requirements for licensure throughout their education to ensure that the program will meet their intended career goals.

Arizona State Board/Department of Education Approval

Meets - Apply to state with valid AZ license

Based upon a review of the state’s regulations on 04/16/2024, this program appears to meet the educational requirements in this state. Graduates from this program are eligible to obtain a credential in this state if they have first obtained a credential from the professional licensing agency in Arizona. Graduates in these states will be required to provide an Arizona credential that is free of deficiencies to this state licensing board as part of the application process. To do so, graduates will have to meet all Arizona requirements for licensure prior to seeking licensure in this state.

Additional Training Requirements

The Texas Education Agency requires all educators to complete Suicide Prevention Training. Training for educators is funded by the State of Texas. Training may be completed by the school or district of hire. It is the student’s responsibility to be aware of and meet the training requirements for their state.

Field Placement Requirements

Educator Content Exam Requirements

The state of Texas requires one or more content exams for teacher licensure. A content exam assesses a student's knowledge of the subject they will be teaching. Per the policy in the GCU University Policy Handbook, students must pass their state-mandated basic skills and content area exams prior to applying for the clinical practice/student teaching experience. At the time of licensure, verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Educator Basic Skills Exam Requirements

The state of Texas does not require a basic skills exam.

Educator Professional Knowledge Exam Requirements

The state of Texas requires a professional knowledge exam for teacher licensure. A professional knowledge exam assesses a student's pedagogical knowledge for the certificate they are seeking. Verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown by the time of application for licensure. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Utah (UT)

Utah

Professional Licensure Disclaimer

The information below pertains to individuals intending to obtain a Professional Educator License from Utah. It will inform you of whether or not this program meets the educational requirements for this license in this state. This does not pertain to any other license issued by the state. Please be advised that state regulations and processes can change at any time, individuals are encouraged to monitor the state requirements for licensure throughout their education to ensure that the program will meet their intended career goals.

Arizona State Board/Department of Education Approval

Transcript Review Required

Based upon a review of the state’s regulations on 05/27/2024, an individual applicant’s transcripts are reviewed by the licensure agency in Utah to determine if the educational requirements for licensure have been met. In addition to educational attainment, the professional licensing agency may consider the applicant’s professional experience, level of educational attainment, background, criminal record, exam scores, etc., to determine if the individual applying for licensure meets the state requirements. Therefore, only the state can determine if the individual graduate meets the requirements for licensure. As a result, GCU cannot make that determination for the state. Individuals with specific questions about this state’s process or regulations are advised to contact the state board to determine if the program will meet the individual’s needs.

Additional Coursework Requirements

The Utah State Board of Education requires the following courses in order to meet the requirements for a Special Education: Mild to Moderate K-12 certificate:

-Mathematics Instruction (Secondary)
-School to Post-School Transition Planning

GCU's Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and Special Education program does not include the above courses. Students will need to take courses outside of their program to meet this requirement. It is the student's responsibility to be aware of and meet the educational course requirements for their state.

Educator Content Exam Requirements

The state of Utah requires one or more content exams for teacher licensure. A content exam assesses a student's knowledge of the subject they will be teaching. Per the policy in the GCU University Policy Handbook, students must pass their state-mandated basic skills and content area exams prior to applying for the clinical practice/student teaching experience. At the time of licensure, verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Educator Basic Skills Exam Requirements

The state of Utah does not require a basic skills exam.

Educator Professional Knowledge Exam Requirements

The state of Utah requires a professional knowledge exam for teacher licensure. A professional knowledge exam assesses a student's pedagogical knowledge for the certificate they are seeking. Verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown by the time of application for licensure. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

If students have not taught for a year in Arizona under their professional Arizona license, they will need to have passed an approved pedagogical performance assessment (i.e. PPAT or edTPA). Special Education, Early Childhood, and Elementary candidates will also need to have passed the Foundations of Reading exam. Utah’s passing score for these assessments can be found on the UTSBE website.

Vermont (VT)

Vermont

Professional Licensure Disclaimer

The information below pertains to individuals intending to obtain a Professional License from Vermont. It will inform you of whether or not this program meets the educational requirements for this license in this state. This does not pertain to any other license issued by the state. Please be advised that state regulations and processes can change at any time, individuals are encouraged to monitor the state requirements for licensure throughout their education to ensure that the program will meet their intended career goals.

Arizona State Board/Department of Education Approval

Meets - May directly certify

Based upon a review of the state’s regulations on 10/13/2023, this program appears to meet the educational requirements to directly certify for licensure in this state.

Educator Content Exam Requirements

The state of Vermont requires content exams for teacher licensure. A content exam assesses students' knowledge of the subject they will be teaching. Per the GCU University Policy Handbook policy, students must pass their state-mandated basic skills and content area exams before applying for the clinical practice/student teaching experience. At the time of licensure, verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or Field Experience Counselor.

Educator Basic Skills Exam Requirements

The state of Vermont requires a basic skills exam for teacher licensure. The basic skills exam is one assessment broken up into three to four subtests; one for each content area. Verification of a passing score on this exam, all subtests, will need to be shown prior to student teaching. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Educator Professional Knowledge Exam Requirements

The state of Vermont does not require a professional knowledge exam. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Virgin Islands (VI)

Virgin Islands

Professional Licensure Disclaimer

The information below pertains to individuals intending to obtain a Professional Educator Class I Certificate from Virgin Islands. It will inform you of whether or not this program meets the educational requirements for this license in this state. This does not pertain to any other license issued by the state. Please be advised that state regulations and processes can change at any time, individuals are encouraged to monitor the state requirements for licensure throughout their education to ensure that the program will meet their intended career goals.

Arizona State Board/Department of Education Approval

Transcript Review Required

Based upon a review of the state’s regulations on 04/22/2024, an individual applicant’s transcripts are reviewed by the licensure agency in Virgin Islands to determine if the educational requirements for licensure have been met. In addition to educational attainment, the professional licensing agency may consider the applicant’s professional experience, level of educational attainment, background, criminal record, exam scores, etc., to determine if the individual applying for licensure meets the state requirements. Therefore, only the state can determine if the individual graduate meets the requirements for licensure. As a result, GCU cannot make that determination for the state. Individuals with specific questions about this state’s process or regulations are advised to contact the state board to determine if the program will meet the individual’s needs.

Availability of Equivalent Credential

The U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Education will determine if GCU's program is equivalent to a certificate in this territory once a transcript evaluation is completed.

Additional Coursework Requirements

The U.S. Virgin Islands requires a minimum of 42 semester credit hours in five of the six general academic areas: English, natural science, mathematics, social studies, foreign language and fine arts as well as an Educational Technology or other comparable computer course. If an individual does not have forty-two (42) semester hours of coursework in five of the six areas listed above the individual is expected to take any coursework they are lacking in the areas listed above prior to applying for certification in the U.S. Virgin Islands. The individual understands the deficient coursework will be taken outside their program of study.In addition, individuals must complete a course in Virgin Islands history within the first year of employment.

Educator Content Exam Requirements

The U.S. Virgin Islands requires one or more content exams for teacher licensure. A content exam assesses a student's knowledge of the subject they will be teaching. Per the policy in the GCU University Policy Handbook, students must pass their state-mandated basic skills and content area exams prior to applying for the clinical practice/student teaching experience. At the time of licensure, verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown.

Educator Basic Skills Exam Requirements

The U.S. Virgin Islands requires a basic skills exam for teacher licensure. The basic skills exam is one assessment broken up into three to four subtests; one for each content area. Verification of a passing score on this exam, all subtests, will need to be shown prior to student teaching.

Educator Professional Knowledge Exam Requirements

The U.S. Virgin Islands requires a professional knowledge exam for teacher licensure. A professional knowledge exam assesses a student's pedagogical knowledge for the certificate they are seeking. Verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown by the time of application for licensure. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Virginia (VA)

Virginia

Professional Licensure Disclaimer

The information below pertains to individuals intending to obtain a Collegiate Professional License from Virginia. It will inform you of whether or not this program meets the educational requirements for this license in this state. This does not pertain to any other license issued by the state. Please be advised that state regulations and processes can change at any time, individuals are encouraged to monitor the state requirements for licensure throughout their education to ensure that the program will meet their intended career goals.

Arizona State Board/Department of Education Approval

Meets - May directly certify

Based upon a review of the state’s regulations on 03/28/2024, this program appears to meet the educational requirements to directly certify for licensure in this state.

Additional Training Requirements

The Virginia Department of Education requires individuals seeking initial teacher licensure to complete the following trainings:

- Child Abuse and Neglect Recognition and Intervention Training,
- Emergency First Aid, CPR & AED Certification or Training,
- Dyslexia Awareness Training, and
- Behavior Intervention and Support Training.
- **Effective July 1, 2023: Cultural Competency Training**

The certification or training program must be based on the current national evidence-based emergency cardiovascular care guidelines for cardiopulmonary resuscitation and the use of an automated external defibrillator, such as a program developed by the American Heart Association or the American Red Cross.

Educator Content Exam Requirements

Virginia requires one or more content exams for teacher licensure. A content exam assesses a student's knowledge of the subject they will be teaching. Per the policy in the GCU University Policy Handbook, students must pass their state-mandated basic skills and content area exams prior to applying for the clinical practice/student teaching experience. At the time of licensure, verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Educator Basic Skills Exam Requirements

Virginia requires a basic skills exam for teacher licensure. A basic skills exam assesses a student's knowledge of the subject they will be teaching. Per the policy in the GCU University Policy Handbook, students must pass their state-mandated basic skills and content area exams prior to applying for the clinical practice/student teaching experience. At the time of licensure, verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

*Update as of March 2024*
The required licensure exams for candidates seeking full, initial licensure are no longer being deferred in Virginia. For candidates seeking full, initial licenses (with the exception of Technical Professional Licenses, International Educator Licenses, School Manager Licenses, and Pupil Personnel Licenses), all testing must now be completed prior to applying for certification. Score reports for the Virginia licensure assessments taken must be included within the candidate’s license application packet.

Educator Professional Knowledge Exam Requirements

The state of Virginia does not require a professional knowledge exam.

Washington (WA)

Washington

Professional Licensure Disclaimer

The information below pertains to individuals intending to obtain a Residency Teacher Certificate from Washington. It will inform you of whether or not this program meets the educational requirements for this license in this state. This does not pertain to any other license issued by the state. Please be advised that state regulations and processes can change at any time, individuals are encouraged to monitor the state requirements for licensure throughout their education to ensure that the program will meet their intended career goals.

Arizona State Board/Department of Education Approval

Meets - May directly certify

Based upon a review of the state’s regulations on 03/14/2024, this program appears to meet the educational requirements to directly certify for licensure in this state.

Field Placement Requirements

Before student teaching can begin in Washington, students must apply for pre-residency clearance. Pre-residency clearance consists of program approval and submission of fingerprints for a background check. Two items will need to be requested from the university: verification of teacher program enrollment and an unofficial copy of transcripts. It may take up to a month to receive Pre-Residency Certification Clearance. There are two options for fingerprinting; fingerprint at an Educational Service District (ESD) or fingerprint at a law enforcement agency or private fingerprinting service.

Fingerprinting at an Educational Service District steps
1. Go to the Educational Service District and complete the electronic live scan fingerprint process.
2. Pay the fee.
3. The Educational Service District submits the fingerprints to the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction.

Fingerprinting at a law enforcement agency or a private fingerprinting service steps
1. Request a fingerprint card from oppfp@k12.wa.us or ESD.
2. Once a fingerprint card is received in a mail, bring the card to a private fingerprinting agency or law enforcement agency to be fingerprinted.
3. Mail the completed fingerprint card and the fee to:
OSPI
Attn: Fiscal Office
PO Box 47200
Olympia, WA 98504-7200
4. The Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction scans the card and submits it to the Washington State Patrol.

Students will need to complete two student teaching placements as a programmatic requirement. One student teaching placement will need to be in a Kindergarten-8th grade Elementary classroom and one student teaching placement will need to be in a Kindergarten-12th grade Special Education classroom.

Educator Content Exam Requirements

The state of Washington does not require a content knowledge exam for initial teacher licensure. This state is testing deferred. Verification of passing scores for the basic skills exam will be needed when transiting to the next stage of licensure. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Educator Basic Skills Exam Requirements

The state of Washington does not require a basic skills exam for initial teacher licensure. This state is testing deferred. Verification of passing scores for the basic skills exam will be needed when transiting to the next stage of licensure. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

ALTERNATIVE BASIC SKILLS TESTS
Individuals who seek admission to teacher preparation programs in Washington may use the basic skills equivalent tests approved by the Board. The following link shows the list for basic skills equivalent tests approved by the Board.
https://www.pesb.wa.gov/preparation-programs/standards/assessments/basic-skills-assessment-west-b/west-b-exemptions/

Educator Professional Knowledge Exam Requirements

The state of Washington does not require a professional knowledge exam.

West Virginia (WV)

West Virginia

Professional Licensure Disclaimer

The information below pertains to individuals intending to obtain a Professional Certificate from West Virginia. It will inform you of whether or not this program meets the educational requirements for this license in this state. This does not pertain to any other license issued by the state. Please be advised that state regulations and processes can change at any time, individuals are encouraged to monitor the state requirements for licensure throughout their education to ensure that the program will meet their intended career goals.

Arizona State Board/Department of Education Approval

Meets - May directly certify

Based upon a review of the state’s regulations on 09/28/2023, this program appears to meet the educational requirements to directly certify for licensure in this state.

Educator Content Exam Requirements

West Virginia requires one or more content exams for teacher licensure. A content exam assesses a student's knowledge of the subject they will be teaching. Per the policy in the GCU University Policy Handbook, students must pass their state-mandated basic skills and content area exams prior to applying for the clinical practice/student teaching experience. At the time of licensure, verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Educator Basic Skills Exam Requirements

West Virginia requires a basic skills exam for teacher licensure. The basic skills exam is one assessment broken up into three to four sub-tests; one for each content area. Verification of a passing score on this exam, all sub-tests, will need to be shown prior to student teaching. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

UPDATE AS OF 1/1/2024:

*** Beginning immediately, July 1, 2023, the Core Academic Skills for Educators (CASE) exam will no longer be required for program admission for candidates completing a traditional teacher preparation program.
***WVDE Alternative Certification Programs must meet the Pre-Professional Skills Test/Basic Skills Test requirements or qualify for an eligible exemption.
***Candidates who are admitted into a teacher preparation program after January 1, 2024, are not required to complete the Basic Skills Exam for certification purposes but must meet one of the exemptions listed here: https://wvde.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/WVLicensureTestingDirectory-effective-January-10-2024.pdf

Educator Professional Knowledge Exam Requirements

West Virginia requires a professional knowledge exam for teacher licensure. A professional knowledge exam assesses a student's pedagogical knowledge for the certificate they are seeking. Verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown by the time of application for licensure. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Wisconsin (WI)

Wisconsin

Professional Licensure Disclaimer

The information below pertains to individuals intending to obtain a License with Stipulations from Wisconsin. It will inform you of whether or not this program meets the educational requirements for this license in this state. This does not pertain to any other license issued by the state. Please be advised that state regulations and processes can change at any time, individuals are encouraged to monitor the state requirements for licensure throughout their education to ensure that the program will meet their intended career goals.

Arizona State Board/Department of Education Approval

Licensure with Deficiencies

Based upon a review of the regulations on 04/26/2024, graduates from this program may obtain a license in the state. This state allows graduates from this program to obtain a license with specific deficiencies. The license provided will include additional conditions which the state requires the applicant to meet to maintain licensure. Individuals with specific questions about this state’s process or regulations are advised to contact the state board to determine if the program will meet the individual’s needs. The state contact information and any known additional coursework and/or training which will be required after licensure are outlined below.

Additional Coursework Requirements

The Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction requires all applicants meet the requirements of Wisconsin Statutes and Administrative Rule. Students who complete a teacher preparation program outside of Wisconsin are not likely to have met them all. The coursework requirements needing to be met are listed below:

1. Minority Group Relations- All
2. Minority Group Relations- Wisconsin American Indian Bands and Tribes
3. Conflict Resolution
4. Environmental Education

Applicants who have not met all requirements will be awarded a License with Stipulations. All stipulations must be satisfied or removed before the expiration date of the license. Students may require additional coursework outside of GCU's program. It is the student's responsibility to be aware of and meet the educational course requirements for their state.

Field Placement Requirements

The Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction requires applicants to complete a full semester of full-time student teaching or 18-weeks. GCU’s teacher preparation programs include 16 weeks of student teaching. When applying for licensure, applicants will be awarded a License with Statutory Stipulations. Applicants can meet this statutory stipulation by completing a verification of employment form confirming 18 weeks of successful full-time teaching experience. Statutory stipulations must be satisfied before the expiration of the License with Statutory Stipulations. It is the student’s responsibility to be aware of and meet the licensure requirements of their state.

Students will need to complete two student teaching placements as a programmatic requirement. One student teaching placement will need to be in a Kindergarten-8th grade Elementary classroom and one student teaching placement will need to be in a Kindergarten-12th grade Special Education classroom.

Educator Content Exam Requirements

The Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (WIDPI), is requesting that Grand Canyon University (GCU) not advise on their state test requirements while students are completing a GCU education program. WIPDI is recommending that GCU ONLY advise students on the GCU requirements that need to be completed to obtain GCU’s endorsement for licensure. If the candidate has questions about WI licensure, please direct these candidates to reach out to the WI DPI, they can submit a Help Desk ticket to inquire.
Help Desk ticket link: https://dpi.wi.gov/support/contact-us

The state of Wisconsin requires one or more content exams for teacher licensure. A content exam assesses a student's knowledge of the subject they will be teaching. Per the policy in the GCU University Policy Handbook, students must pass their state-mandated basic skills and content area exams prior to applying for the clinical practice/student teaching experience. At the time of licensure, verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Educator Basic Skills Exam Requirements

The state of Wisconsin does not require a basic skills exam for students prepared in programs outside of Wisconsin.

The Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (WIDPI), is requesting that Grand Canyon University (GCU) not advise on their state test requirements while students are completing a GCU education program. WIPDI is recommending that GCU ONLY advise students on the GCU requirements that need to be completed to obtain GCU’s endorsement for licensure. If the candidate has questions about WI licensure, please direct these candidates to reach out to the WI DPI, they can submit a Help Desk ticket to inquire.
Help Desk ticket link: https://dpi.wi.gov/support/contact-us

Educator Professional Knowledge Exam Requirements

The Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (WIDPI), is requesting that Grand Canyon University (GCU) not advise on their state test requirements while students are completing a GCU education program. WIPDI is recommending that GCU ONLY advise students on the GCU requirements that need to be completed to obtain GCU’s endorsement for licensure. If the candidate has questions about WI licensure, please direct these candidates to reach out to the WI DPI, they can submit a Help Desk ticket to inquire.
Help Desk ticket link: https://dpi.wi.gov/support/contact-us

The state of Wisconsin requires an Arizona professional knowledge exam for teacher licensure. A professional knowledge exam assesses a student's pedagogical knowledge for the certificate they are seeking. Verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown by the time of application for licensure. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Wyoming (WY)

Wyoming

Professional Licensure Disclaimer

The information below pertains to individuals intending to obtain a Initial Teacher License from Wyoming. It will inform you of whether or not this program meets the educational requirements for this license in this state. This does not pertain to any other license issued by the state. Please be advised that state regulations and processes can change at any time, individuals are encouraged to monitor the state requirements for licensure throughout their education to ensure that the program will meet their intended career goals.

Arizona State Board/Department of Education Approval

Meets - May directly certify

Based upon a review of the state’s regulations on 05/17/2024, this program appears to meet the educational requirements to directly certify for licensure in this state.

Additional Coursework Requirements

The Wyoming Professional Teaching Standards Board (PTSB) requires applicants to demonstrate knowledge of the U.S. and Wyoming Constitutions. This requirement can be met by completing two PTSB approved multiple choice exams. The U.S. and Wyoming Constitution PTSB approved exams may be taken at any Wyoming School district administration office or, at the applicant's request, may be taken digitally with the exam being sent via e-mail.

If the applicant does not want to complete the requirement by demonstrating knowledge through an exam, a course in U.S. History may be taken instead. GCU's programs do not include coursework in U.S. History, therefore, additional coursework will need to be completed outside of the program.

Verification of meeting this requirement, either through exams or coursework, must be shown at the time of initial licensure application. It is the student's responsibility to be aware of and meet the educational course requirements for their state. More information can be found at http://wyomingptsb.com/licensure/us-and-wyoming-constitution/

Field Placement Requirements

Students will need to complete two student teaching placements as a programmatic requirement. One student teaching placement will need to be in a Kindergarten-6th grade Elementary classroom and one student teaching placement will need to be in a Kindergarten-12th grade Special Education classroom. The Wyoming Professional Teaching Standards Board requires applicants of a K-12 Special Education Endorsement to have completed experiences in both the Elementary (K-6) and Secondary (6-12) grade levels. These experiences may be met with two students teaching placements or by students having practicum experiences in a different grade range than student teaching.

Educator Content Exam Requirements

The state of Wyoming requires one or more content exams for teacher licensure. A content exam assesses a student's knowledge of the subject they will be teaching. Per the policy in the GCU University Policy Handbook, students must pass their state-mandated basic skills and content area exams prior to applying for the clinical practice/student teaching experience. At the time of licensure, verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.

Educator Basic Skills Exam Requirements

The state of Wyoming does not require a basic skills exam.

Educator Professional Knowledge Exam Requirements

The state of Wyoming requires an Arizona professional knowledge exam for teacher licensure. A professional knowledge exam assesses a student's pedagogical knowledge for the certificate they are seeking. Verification of a passing score on this exam will need to be shown by the time of application for licensure. For more information on test names, codes, and scores please contact your Student Services Counselor or your Field Experience Counselor.