Q: How will I fit in the required number of field observation hours while working full time?
A: The Commonwealth of Kentucky requires that each teacher candidate acquire at least 200 field observation hours, roughly 55 a semester,
before they enter into their student teaching/professional semester. Students have been able to make this work by requesting time off from their employers, either a half-day a week, or entire days for a full week. Students report a better experience
when they are able to go to their assigned field placement at least one time per week, but we are flexible in our expectations because we know that many of our students are working full-time to support a family. Our field coordinator will work with
you to ensure you have the necessary number of field hours before your final semester.
Q: What are the requirements for obtaining an alternative certification/temporary credential?
A: Many students are interested in obtaining an alternative certification so they can be hired as a teacher before they complete the full
five semesters of the program. Most often, these positions are only available in high needs areas (Science, Math, English) at the middle and secondary level in public schools. To qualify as an "alt-cert" candidate, you must:
- have completed at least one semester of the program.
- have completed all required content courses.
- have successfully completed your content Praxis exam, and all three sections of the CASE exam.
- have the recommendation of at least one faculty member at Bellarmine.
- meet with our certification officer to complete the necessary paperwork.
It is important to note that moving into an alt cert position without the benefit of the full five semesters of schooling is often very stressful, and is not recommended for all candidates.
Q: Will I get a teaching job when I graduate?
A: It is very likely that you will get a teaching job once you complete our program. 97% of our graduates are successfully employed the year after they graduate.
Q: What does a typical course schedule look like?
A: Our courses are presented in a module format. You will matriculate through five modules. For most of these modules, you will spend one night a week at Bellarmine for a face-to-face
class from 6–8:45 p.m. In addition, you will attend five full-day Saturday sessions throughout the semester from 8 a.m.–4 p.m.. In your first module, you will also take an online course in conjunction with the evening class and the Saturday
class.
Q: Can I work while student teaching?
A: Your final semester is a full-time student teaching experience where you co-teach an entire semester with a mentor teacher. Because this is a full-time job, we recommend that you do not attempt
to juggle an additional job during this semester.