Alternative Licensure Program (Certificate)

The Department of Teacher Education is accredited by the New Mexico Public Education Department. These programs of study lead to teacher licensure for individuals who already hold a degree (bachelor’s, master’s, or doctorate) from a regionally accredited college or university. Teacher candidates can choose from one of the following courses of study:

Elementary Education (K-8th grades) work in diverse educational settings in grades kindergarten through eight.

Secondary Education (7th-12th grades) work in diverse educational settings in grades seven through twelve.

Special Education (K-12th grades) work with students with special needs and acquire strategies that are effective for all learners in grades kindergarten through twelve.

Admission to the Alternative Licensure Program (ALP)

In order to be accepted into the ALP Program, the teacher candidate must be admitted to NNMC and have official transcripts from all colleges sent to the Office of Admissions.

Application Process

1. Students must declare a Certificate of Alternative Licensure Program in Elementary, Secondary or Special Education to be officially accepted into a program of study and advised accordingly by the Department of Teacher Education.
2. Complete an ALP Program application which can be found on the Alternative Licensure Program page on our website at www.nnmc.edu.
3. Letter of Intent: a one-page typed letter stating a) your reasons for wanting to become a teacher, b) experience, and c) personal strengths.
4. Personal Philosophy of Education Statement: a one-page typed statement that describes your beliefs about a) education, b) learning, and c) working with students.
5. Evidence of taking the basic assessments required by New Mexico is required
6. Signed Assurance form: obtained at www.nnmc.edu.
7. Copy of transcripts of highest degree conferred.
8. Copy of favorable background check.

Completed application materials will be reviewed by the Department of Teacher Education and teacher candidates will be advised accordingly.

Transfer Credits

Up to 6 credits of professional preparation coursework will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Assessment of Candidate Learning

Teacher candidates must earn a (C-) or better in all courses to remain in good standing in the program. In addition, students’ progress will be evaluated by practicum and student teaching observations, disposition assessments, and self-assessments.