Bethel University’s One-Year Transition to Teaching Program Now Available Fully Online

by | Aug 11, 2023

Bethel University is excited to offer its unique Transition to Teaching program fully online, in addition to its existing on-campus option. This will allow aspiring educators the opportunity to complete their course of study from where they live, culminating in a teacher’s license. Graduates will be prepared, not only as effective teachers, but as ethical school leaders.

“We’re excited to move forward with an online option for our Transition to Teaching program,” says Jim Bennett, Ed.D., Program Director and Department Chair for Education. “This will help busy working professionals considering the teaching profession and the needs of our community. All school districts are seeking highly qualified teachers, and this online option is another way Bethel can help meet the demands of our school partners.”

The Transition to Teaching program enables students with a bachelor’s degree in a different discipline to transition into a teaching career in just one year. Students who complete the Transition to Teaching program will also have gained over half of the credits needed for the Master of Arts in Teaching degree, also offered at Bethel.

“Offering the Transition to Teaching program online allows us to reach more students, where they are,” says Luke Caldwell, Executive Director of Online, Adult and Graduate Studies. “It also provides the flexibility for busy adults to complete their coursework on their time.”

The program requires 24 credit hours for those seeking a career in elementary education (grades K-6) and 18 credit hours for those seeking a career in secondary education (grades 5-12). In addition to coursework, the program requires 15 weeks of student teaching.

“Through Canvas, an online learning management system, students will participate in active discussions, connect with instructor videos, collaborate on projects, and receive personalized feedback from experienced instructors,” says Caldwell. “The online format also fosters networking opportunities with peers from diverse backgrounds, enriching the learning experience and broadening perspectives.”

Bethel’s education programs are fully accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation and the Higher Learning Commission, and instructors bring real-world classroom experience into their classes. Request information and learn more.