Education Degree Programs
Many of our students know they have a passion for teaching, and whether you want to teach young children or high school students, Central has a program for you. Our programs offer experiential learning and engaged faculty who are experienced former teachers. Explore the various certification programs listed below and let us know how we can help you be a part of the next generation of Missouri teachers.
As a CMU Education major, you will have opportunities to:
- build an in-demand skill set while taking classes that prepare you to be an engaged educator
- develop workplace skills that allow you to naturally analyze information, answer questions, communicate effectively, develop ideas, hold an audience’s attention, and encourage others to grow and learn
- participate in hands-on learning through projects, observational and field experiences, and internships
- become a candidate for employment who is highly desired for your creativity, leadership skills, and teaching abilities
- receive the preparation needed to earn certification and/or an advanced degree
Certification Areas Available
- Early Childhood Education
- Elementary Education
- Middle School Education
- Music Education
- Physical Education
- Secondary Education
- Special Education
- Technology & Engineering Education
Alternative Routes to Certification
Other Routes to MO Teaching Certification
- Certification Only
- Provisional Certification
- Temporary Authorization Certification (TAC)
Certification Only
For students who already have a bachelor’s degree, they might choose to earn certification by taking only those courses needed for certification rather than earning another degree. The certification path will look different for each student depending on the undergraduate courses they have taken as well as the certification area they are pursuing. Contact the Division of Education to have a plan created for you.
Provisional Certification
When students are within 15 hours of earning their certification (through a traditional degree program or certification only) and are hired by a school in a position that is the same as their chosen certification program (e.g. Elementary, Middle School Language Arts, etc.), they may apply for a provisional certificate. This option is generally for students who have completed their programs but haven’t passed the state qualifying assessment, or students who are finishing their programs and have 15 or fewer hours remaining. If you or your hiring district believe you qualify for a provisional certificate, contact the Division of Education for more information.
TAC
The Temporary Authorization Certificate (TAC) is an alternative certification option through the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) for individuals who wish to teach while pursuing teacher certification. The TAC is issued as a one-year, renewable certificate, and the teacher must teach under the TAC for a minimum of 2 years. To apply for a TAC, you must first be hired by a school district. That school district will then assist you in getting your TAC directly through the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE). Requirements for the Temporary Authorization Certificate can be found on the DESE website under Temporary Authorization Certificate Requirements.
Central Methodist offers coursework that meets the requirements for middle school, secondary and K-12 education programs. At CMU, we also offer advisor support through each step of the TAC plan. The TAC agreement is between the teacher, the hiring district/school, and DESE. Contact the Division of Education for more information.
