Teacher Development Center
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Left to Right: Keely Wallace, Michelle Gonzalez, Ricky Jolly, Jubille Uzoma and Sean Rothberg
Teacher Certification
The UT Dallas Teacher Development Center (TDC) is located in the School of Interdisciplinary Studies and offers all professional preparation courses required for teacher certification. The TDC focuses on providing Texas public schools with skilled teachers ready to shape the future of Texas. Since 1975, the University’s teacher certification program has prepared thousands of individuals for the teaching profession.
The TDC’s teacher certification programs provides students rigorous, university-based course work with extensive field experience with a paid, two-semester residency program including clinical teaching or a supervised post-baccalaureate internship. We have one of the few paid residency programs for undergraduates in the area. The TDC staff and highly qualified senior lecturers possess the academic and career credentials that will prepare students for successful teaching and administrative careers.
All Academic Degrees
The TDC serves all academic schools at UT Dallas. An undergraduate student from any academic area who plans their course schedule carefully can complete both an academic degree and teacher certification in a timely manner. Students who already have a bachelor’s or graduate degree can also earn their certification through the TDC in as little as 3 semesters.
Preparation is Key
All preparation courses required for teacher certification are offered, including curriculum and instruction, classroom management, methods courses, clinical teaching and a residency program. Students receive high-quality content in their teaching fields and practical classes in pedagogy, English as second language, concepts and educational technology.
Program Performance
- All teacher candidates pass their TExES exams prior to clinical teaching.
- We have 100% TExES exam passing rate with the state of Texas.
- Since 1983, the TDC has recommended nearly 9,000 students for teacher certification.
- Our teacher certification program is accredited by the Texas Education Agency.
- The TDC has a paid year long (two semester) Residency Program so our students are first day classroom ready when they begin start their first teaching position.
- UT Dallas teacher graduates are highly sought after by ISD’s and many are offered multiple job opportunities.
Many of our graduates have continued on to become principals, executive directors, and superintendents. Our graduates include a Teacher of the Year in Garland ISD, Teacher of the Year in Plano ISD, Milken Educator Award winner and Superintendent Service Award winner.
Military Statement
TDC welcomes and encourages students with military backgrounds wanting to earn their Texas teacher certification to meet with our advisors. Former military service members may have military and educational backgrounds that may qualify for credits(s) toward the certification they seek. Please see 19 TAC §228.35(a)(5) (A)-(B). TDC does not offer career and technical certifications (CTE) but you are welcome to discuss your training history and educational background. Each prospective candidate is considered on the basis of their own personal training and educational history. All veterans are required to take state certification exams.
Non-Military Statement
TDC welcomes and encourages students who are wanting to earn their Texas teacher certification to meet with our advisors. Students may have backgrounds, training and/or educational that may qualify for credit(s) toward the certification they seek. Please see 19 TAC §228.35(a)(5) (A)-(B). TDC does not offer technical certifications (CTE) but you are welcome to discuss your training history and educational background. Each prospective candidate is considered on the basis of their own personal training and educational history.
Criminal Background Check
A criminal background check will be required to complete your field hours and clinical teaching to receive a certificate. A full background check with fingerprinting will be required before clinical teaching. If you cannot successfully complete a criminal background check, you will not be able to certify or to gain a job as a teacher in the state of Texas. You have the right to review the results of this check. Conviction of an offense can make you ineligible for the issuance of a certificate on completion of the certification program.
For more detailed information, see Texas Education Code (TEC), §227.1
Why Become a Teacher?
- College Degree, certified teachers starting salary is $60,000+
- Incredible benefits including insurance and retirement
- Continually growing demand for teachers…job availability
- Job security
- Teachers are off during the summers and holidays…family friendly schedule
- Career growth opportunities into administration, principals and other leaders
- Joy of impacting the next generation and working with children
- Teach what you love!
- Every day is a unique and fun experience
For more information
If you would like more information on becoming a Texas certified teacher or to schedule an appointment, call 972-883-2730 or email amy.crowell@utdallas.edu
Why is a University Based Educator Preparation Program your BEST choice?
Pinning Ceremony
Teacher Pinning Ceremony for Graduates
Saturday, December 14, 2024, 10am-11:30am, Hoblitzelle Hall Lobby