Considerations When Choosing a Program

According to the American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education and the former ERIC Clearinghouse on Teaching and Teacher Education, there are a number of factors to consider when choosing a program. According to these organizations, these factors include:

Location

Is the program in the state you wish to teach? If not, does that state have reciprocity with the state where the program is located?

Find teaching degree programs by state.

Degree(s) or credits offered

Does the program offer all of the courses that you will need?

Will the teacher education program provide a variety of experiences?

Strong offerings in subject areas, pedagogy, and field experience are good preparation. Linkage between the school of education and the liberal arts departments is important. Learning to work with culturally diverse students and their parents is increasingly critical. Strong collaborative relationships between the university and area schools is an asset, like those found in professional development schools. Exploring new models for teaching, as in site-based school management or comprehensive services with other professionals, can give better preparation for restructured schools. It is useful to find out what kinds of field experience are offered and if there is a mentorship or cooperating teacher program.

Reputation

U.S. News & World Report, in "America's Best Graduate Schools," ranks schools of education according to education specialties. Educational Rankings Annual by Gale Press lists the 10 best universities by reputation as determined by a survey of selected educators. Contacting graduates, talking with school administrators, and consulting current students can provide indicators of quality. General information can be found in Barron's Index to College Majors; The College Blue Book; Degrees Offered by College and Subject; Index of Majors; and Peterson's Guides.

Accreditation

No matter which program you choose, it should have: Accreditation by your state and the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) or the Teacher Education Accreditation Council (TEAC). Meeting rigorous accreditation requirements is an indicator of program quality. Each state department of education can provide information on other accreditation (state, regional, or national) of local institutions.

Career Placement and Professional Development

You might consider the results of follow-up studies on the school's graduates. The percentage of graduates who wanted to teach full-time and successfully found positions can indicate the interest of the institution in the employability of its graduates, the positive attitude of employers, and the condition of the job market locally for new teachers. Career-long professional development is an increasingly important factor for teachers. Check to see what the school offers in continuing education.

Note: this information was taken with permission primarily from the American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education.