Alternative Certification Program
Alternative Certification Program
You likely remember a teacher who believed in you. They saw your potential and even helped shape your future. Maybe you’ve spent years building a career or raising a family, and now you’re ready to be that teacher for the next generation, making a lasting impact on future world changers.
A&M-Texarkana’s Alternative Certification Program (ACP) offers you a direct pathway into the classroom, where the coursework and real-world experience come together to build a strong foundation for student success.
As you work toward your Texas teacher certification, you’ll also learn how to prepare students for life, guiding them, challenging them, and championing them as they discover their own potential. With a flexible pathway and individualized support, you’ll be ready to pursue certification and confidently shape the future, one classroom at a time.
Program Information
Degree Name: Alternative Certification Program
Degree Type: Graduate Certification Program
Format: 100% online *In-State Clinical Experience Required
Credit Hours: 24
Catalog: Program Requirements
Questions: 903-223-3000
Apply to A&M-Texarkana Today! | Request More Information | Visit Us
Why A&M-Texarkana?
Guide. Teach. Transform.
At A&M-Texarkana, you’ll encounter passionate instructors who truly care about you and the success of your future students. Even in an online environment, you’ll feel their support and encouragement every step of the way.
The ACP is designed for working professionals like you, ready for a career change that makes a lasting impact. Maybe you already earned a degree in another field and need your teacher certification to step into the classroom. A&M-Texarkana offers a pathway towards Texas teacher certification in a wide range of content areas from A to T (Art to Theatre) and many in between. Whether you feel called to teach foundational skills to young learners or help older students understand how the past shapes the future, A&M-Texarkana offers the pathway aligned with your goals.
With flexible online coursework, you can pursue your calling without pressing pause on life. As part of the program, your internship is built into the coursework, giving you valuable, hands-on classroom experience before you lead your own.
Program Highlights
Fast-Track to the Classroom
If you already hold a bachelor’s degree, the ACP offers you a streamlined pathway to becoming a certified teacher. Focus on the skills and requirements needed to step confidently into your own classroom.
Real Classroom Experience Built In
Your internship is built directly into the coursework, giving you hands-on teaching experience while you learn. Apply real strategies in a real school environment, building your confidence and teacher toolkit before leading in your own classroom.
Connected to Classrooms Across the Region
A&M-Texarkana Education Faculty have strong partnerships with regional school districts, opening doors for internship opportunities and professional connections. In the ACP, you’re not just completing course requirements. You’re building valuable relationships within the education community that will support your career from day one.
Interested in earning your master’s degree in teaching?
If you already hold a bachelor’s degree in any field, you can pursue the ACP. However, if you’re interested in earning a master’s degree that leads to initial teacher certification, A&M-Texarkana offers a Master of Education in Teaching. As a graduate degree seeking student, you’re also eligible for scholarships and financial aid!
Master of Education in Teaching Information
Alternative Certification Program FAQs
What if my degree is in a different field from what I plan to teach?
The ACP is designed for students who hold a bachelor’s degree in any field and desire to enter the teaching profession.
What exams are required for receiving Texas teacher certification?
You will complete the TExES content area exam in the content area you’re pursuing and the TExES Science of Teaching Reading certification exam ONLY if you plan to teach Early Childhood-Grade 6 or English/Language Arts/Reading and/or Social Studies in grades 4-8.
What teaching certification areas are available to me through the ACP?
A&M-Texarkana’s ACP offers many certification areas. For a full listing, you can visit the certification page.
I have a bachelor’s degree, but not a master’s degree. Can I still apply to the ACP?
Yes, you can! However, if you’re interested in earning a master’s degree that leads to your initial teacher certification, A&M-Texarkana offers a Master of Education in Teaching. Graduate degree seeking students are eligible for scholarships and financial aid opportunities as well.
Can I complete the internship at a school near me?
The school where you plan to complete your internship must be in the state of Texas and within a 100-mile radius of the University.
A&M-Texarkana Division of Education has great connections with area schools and will work with you through the process.
What are the admissions requirements for the ACP?
Get started by exploring the Alternative Certification Program admission requirements and see if you’re ready to apply.
What is the cost of the ACP?
You can review the cost of tuition and required fees on the Texas A&M Texarkana Tuition Calculator.
Although there are no scholarships available for non-degree seeking students, there are scholarship opportunities for graduate, degree-seeking students. For just two additional courses, you can earn a master's degree in teaching and be eligible for scholarships.