School of Education Prospective Students

Welcome to the School of Education at UTC!

We are excited that you are interested in becoming a Moc and selecting one of our programs! We have programs for individuals who want to be teachers through our many licensure programs and educators in the community with our Child and Family Services program.

Why should you choose UTC's School of Education?

We have alumni all over the state doing amazing work as educators. We are constantly ensuring our programs meet the state standards and meet the needs of our community partners. Under the direction of Dr. Murley, we have implemented the Residency year instead of 1-semester student teaching, so our students are prepared for the first day in their own classroom. We believe that great teachers start with great education, which is what we provide from our faculty and staff. Education is a partnership that we are all a part of. 

Programs leading to licensure

As you explore our programs, please note that all students seeking a teaching license will complete the requirements for the Teacher Education Program (TEP) at UTC. TEP is a set of requirements met throughout programs of study to help students gain licensure and stay on track to graduation.

Initial Licensure Candidates - Undergraduate Students

If you are an undergraduate student, you will be advised by an advisor for the program in which you are enrolled. Those seeking licensure in Early Childhood/Elementary, Special Education, Middle Grades (6-8), STEM Education, Health and Wellness, Related Arts can find detailed information about your program through the Programs Leading to Licensure.

Post-Baccalaureate Students

If you have already obtained a bachelor's degree and intend on pursuing and initial teaching license as a degree-seeking or non-degree seeking student at UTC, you will need to reach out to [email protected] to schedule an inquiry appointment.

If you would like to enroll in a School of Education graduate program to pursue a Master's degree and licensure OR licensure only, programs are available in K-5/ESL, Secondary Education, Special Education Comprehensive and Special Education Interventionist.

For current listing of licensure areas offered at UTC, check the Tennessee Department of Education Office of Teacher Licensing - Educator Preparation website. Please note that as a part of licensure requirements, candidates must submit passing scores on the Praxis Subject exams.

Job-Embedded Practitioner License

UTC participates in Tennessee's Job-Embedded Practitioner license program. This program offers an alternative path to licensure. Entry to this program is contingent on a conferred degree, passing score on the appropriate assessment and an intent to hire as a teacher of record for a school district.

Program Areas of the Job-Embedded program are offered in the following subjects and grade levels:

• K-5 (Elementary Education)/ESL (PreK-12)
• K-5/Elementary Education
• Secondary Education (6-8, 6-12 and for Related Arts subjects K-12)
• Special Education Comprehensive (K-12)
• Special Education Interventionist (K-8 or 6-12)

For further information, please contact [email protected]. 

*If interested in the School Counseling or Social Work programs, please reach out directly to these programs.

Additional Endorsements

Once an individual has received an initial license, he/she can add endorsements for other subjects to the license. The State policy has been updated to state that educators can add every endorsement EXCEPT special education by coursework only or test only. If interested in adding any endorsement except special education by coursework only, please reach out to [email protected] for a transcript analysis.

If interested in a SPED Add-On, please visit our website.

For us to best assist you, please select which category fits you most closely!