Majors and Minors

Elementary Licensure

A student seeking licensure as an elementary teacher (grades K-6) must complete the Interdisciplinary Studies/Liberal Arts academic major, all other college requirements, and the Elementary Licensure requirements. Students pursuing the Elementary Licensure option must meet all of the requirements for admission to the Teacher Education Program.

Students must complete all course work required within the academic major prior to beginning the year of education course work and complementary internship or have  documented content and education advisor permission.

The internship experience begins each fall, and students may be placed in more than one K-6 classroom for one full year. Students have in-state or out-of-state placement options. The year-long internship experience begins each August with EDUC 404 Creating Positive Learning Environments, taught five days on the Western campus. After completing this course, students will follow the K-6 school year calendar for the school in which they have accepted placement, not the Western State College of Colorado calendar (i.e., begin the year on the day that new teachers report to work, take K-6 school holidays, participate in K-6 school professional opportunities, end the last day that teachers are required to report for work for the school year, etc). This schedule extends from approximately the first of August through the first part of June.

Master mentor teachers are selected carefully to ensure that Western interns have strong role models. The potential mentor teacher will self-assess his or her knowledge of the standards and standard elements. Students accepting internship placements are expected to successfully complete the year-long internship. Students who do not successfully complete the internship will be withdrawn from the Teacher Education Program and must appeal to the Selection and Retention Committee for readmittance.

The other education courses in the program are offered online throughout the year. The internship is in K-6 classrooms a minimum of 24 hours per week with experienced mentor teachers. During this year-long internship, the intern is applying and extending the pedagogical knowledge that he or she is learning in the Education courses.

To be recommended for elementary licensure, the student intern must perform at “3, Proficiency” level in all relevant standard/standard elements in the elementary (K-6) classroom and earn a score of “3, Proficiency” on each standard element in the licensure electronic work sample. Student interns must demonstrate the ability to apply the standard/standard element in an elementary classroom setting, assess K-6 student learning, and evaluate their own teaching performance. “3, Proficiency” is the level expected of well prepared, first-year teachers.

The Elementary Licensure Program requires 30 credits of education course work:
EDUC 000  Education Gateway Course  0 cr
EDUC 340  Brain-based Learning Motivation and Achievement 3 cr 
EDUC 400  Foundations for Literacy: Phonology and Linguistics 3 cr
EDUC 401  Assessment for Prevention and Intervention 3 cr
EDUC 402  Reading Comprehension, Vocabulary, and Fluency  3 cr
EDUC 404  Creating Positive Learning Environments 3 cr
EDUC 405  Data-driven Instructional Practices 3 cr
EDUC 408  Teaching Writing with the Brain in Mind 3 cr
EDUC 413  Mathematical Investigations 3 cr
EDUC 459  Elementary Student Teaching 1-6 cr

Secondary and K-12 Licensure

A student seeking licensure as a secondary teacher (grades 7-12) or K-12 teacher must complete an appropriate academic major, all other college requirements, and the Secondary/K-12 Licensure requirements. The secondary academic major may be: Biology, Chemistry, Economics, English, Geology, Politics and Government, History, or Mathematics. The K-12 academic major may be: Art, Exercise and Sport Science, Music, or Spanish. Students pursuing the secondary or K-12 Licensure option must meet all of the requirements for admission to the Teacher Education Program.

Students must complete all course work required within the academic major prior to beginning the year of education course work and complementary internship or have content advisor and education advisor permission.  For students taking content courses during the year of education course work and complementary internship, the Teacher Education Internship Coordinator is responsible for meeting with content area faculty members to ensure that all requirements and expectations are met during this year. The internship experience begins each fall, and students are placed in more than one K-12 classroom for one full year. Students have in-state or out-of-state placement options. The year-long internship experience begins each August with EDUC 480 Curriculum, Assessment, Technologies, and Pedagogies, a five-day course taught on the Western campus.  After completing this course, students follow the K-12 school year calendar for the school in which they have been placed, not the Western State College of Colorado calendar (i.e., begin the year on the day that new teachers report to work, take K-12 school holidays, participate in K-12 school professional opportunities, end the last day that teachers are required to report for work for the school year, etc).  This schedule extends from approximately the first of August through the first part of June.

Master mentor teachers are selected carefully to ensure that Western interns have strong role models. The potential mentor teachers self-assess their knowledge of the standards and standard elements. The principal of the host school completes a checklist documenting criteria for selection of mentor teachers before a student is placed at the host school. Upon receiving an internship placement and prior to accepting the placement, a student is expected to arrange for, and have an interview with, the mentor teachers and observe in their classrooms. Students accepting an internship placement will be expected to successfully complete the year-long internship. Students who do not successfully complete the internship will be withdrawn from the Teacher Education Program and must appeal to the Selection and Retention Committee for readmittance.

The other education courses in the program are offered online throughout the year. The internship is in K-12 classrooms and requires a minimum of 24 hours per week with experienced mentor teachers in the same content area in which the intern is seeking licensure. During this year-long internship, the intern is applying and extending the pedagogical knowledge that he or she is learning in the Education courses.
To be recommended for secondary or K-12 licensure in a content area, the student/intern must perform at “3, Proficiency” level in all relevant standard/standard elements in the secondary or K-12 classroom and earn a score of “3, Proficiency” on each standard element in the licensure electronic work sample. The student-intern must demonstrate the ability to apply each standard and standard element in a secondary or K-12 classroom setting, assess secondary or K-12 student learning, and evaluate his/her own teaching performance. “3, Proficiency” is the level expected of well-prepared, first-year teachers.

The Secondary (with the exception of students seeking Secondary English Licensure) and K-12 Licensure Program requires 27 credits of education course work:
EDUC 000  Education Gateway Course 0 cr
EDUC 340  Brain-Based Learning Motivation and Achievement 3 cr
EDUC 403  Instruction and Assessment in the Content Area 3 cr
EDUC 404  Creating Positive Learning Environments 3 cr
EDUC 405  Data-driven Instructional Practices 3 cr
EDUC 406  Content Area Literacy 3 cr
EDUC 407  Technology Integration for Student Growth 3 cr
EDUC 408  Teaching Writing with the Brain in Mind 3 cr
Appropriate Student Teaching Course:
EDUC 409  Secondary Student Teaching 1-6 cr
EDUC 410  K-12 Student Teaching 1-6 cr

Secondary English Licensure Program requires 30 credits of education course work:
EDUC 000  Education Gateway Course 0 cr
EDUC 340  Brain-based Learning Motivation and Achievement 3 cr
EDUC 401  Assessment for Prevention and Intervention 3 cr
EDUC 402  Reading Comprehension, Vocabulary and Fluency 3 cr
EDUC 403 Instruction and Assessment in the Content Area 3 cr
EDUC 404  Creating Positive Learning Environments 3 cr
EDUC 405  Data-driven Instructional Practices 3 cr
EDUC 407  Technology Integration for Student Growth 3 cr
EDUC 408  Teaching Writing with the Brain in Mind 3 cr
EDUC 409  Secondary Student Teaching 1-6 cr

Added Endorsement

Special Education, Generalist
The program prepares individuals to work with K-12 students who are disabled. It is designed for individuals holding a current teaching license.

Courses focus on a variety of educational methodologies as well as the legal and historical implications related to special education. Students who complete this endorsement program are able to design and implement programs that target the Colorado Special Education Generalist Standards for K-12 Students. Prior to enrolling in the program, students must pass all components of the Elementary Licensure Exam.

Individuals holding a current teaching license must provide the following information as part of admission to the Special Education endorsement program: 1) copy of current teaching license, and 2) official transcripts showing completion of a bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited institution of higher education.

To be recommended for Special Education, Generalist licensure the student intern must:  1) pass the state Generalist Exam; 2) perform at “3, Proficiency” level in all relevant    standard/standard elements in the K-12 classroom; and 3) earn a score of “3, Proficiency” on each standard element in the licensure electronic work sample. The student intern must demonstrate the ability to apply each standard and standard element in a field K-12 classroom setting, assess K-12 student learning, and evaluate his or her own teaching  performance. “3, Proficiency” is the level expected of well-prepared first-year teachers.

The Special Education Generalist Licensure Program requires 20-27 credits of education course work:
EDUC 400  Foundations for Literacy: Phonology and Linguistics 3 cr
EDUC 401  Assessment for Prevention and Intervention 3 cr
EDUC 402  Reading Comprehension, Vocabulary, and Fluency  3 cr
EDUC 411  Differentiating Instruction for Learners with Diverse Needs 3 cr
EDUC 412  Affective and Behavioral Needs 3 cr
EDUC 413  Mathematical Investigations  3 cr
EDUC 414  Assessment, Curriculum, Collaboration and Transitions 3 cr
EDUC 415  Special Education Student Teaching 1-6 cr

Licensed teachers adding this endorsement do not have to complete EDUC 415 Special Education Student Teaching, if they have been special education teachers of record for one year.

Student Disposition and Performance Assessment. During the semester in which     students are enrolled in EDUC 000 Education Gateway Course, EDUC 340 Brain Based Learning Motivation and Achievement, and the internship, students are evaluated by the Teacher Education faculty and K-12 teacher mentor(s) in terms of their potential for becoming effective teachers. This process of evaluating professional teaching dispositions is used for screening Teacher Education students for support needs and/or continuation in the Teacher Education Program.

Recommendation for Initial Licensure. Students must meet the following requirements during the last semester of their internship year:
    1.  successfully complete all responsibilities of an intern;
    2.  perform at least at a “3, Proficiency” on each relevant standard element as evaluated by mentor teachers, supervisors of the internship, and/or course professors;
     3.  submit a complete work sample to the Teacher Education office for final approval, as stipulated in the work sample requirements handout, and earn a score of no less than “3, Proficiency” on each standard element of the licensure work sample; and
     4.  apply for licensure from the Colorado Department of Education within the five years immediately following program completion.

Teacher Education Program Selection and Retention Process. Throughout the Teacher Education Program, students are systematically assessed by the Selection and Retention Committee from the Teacher Education Program with respect to performance, disposition, motivation, and demonstrated potential as a teacher. The Selection and Retention process has three purposes: 1) to act as a screening and counseling review, 2) to resolve a problematic situation, and 3) to provide an opportunity for faculty and students to develop a professional growth plan.
Evidence of unsatisfactory performance, disposition, motivation, or demonstrated potential results in withdrawal from the program. A student who does not pass each education course in the Teacher Education Program with at least a “C-” has one semester (or until the next time the semester course is offered) to remove the “D” or “F” with a grade of “C-” or above; or be withdrawn from the Program. Before admission to the Teacher Education Program, students must complete the prerequisite education course (EDUC 340 Brain Based Learning Motivation and Achievement) with a “C-“or above, and have an overall GPA of 2.75 or above. Anyone who fails two or more courses in the Teacher Education Program is withdrawn from the Program.

In considering transfer credit for required education courses, the Selection and Retention Committee considers the transfer of courses that were taken no more than 10 years prior to admission to the Teacher Education Program based on current state licensure requirements. Copies of official transcripts, course descriptions, and/or course syllabi must be submitted to the Teacher Education Program for a determination of transfer credit.
Selection and Retention Procedures. Students who appeal Program policy and procedures must abide by the selection and retention procedures process. This process involves submitting materials to the Teacher Education Selection and Retention Committee for  review. These materials include:
    1. a letter describing admission requirements that have been met, a statement of the problem, and a plan for correcting the problem;
    2. a copy of the student’s transcript(s) and current course schedule; and
    3.  additional materials supporting the student’s appeal.

Teach Now Online Teacher Licensure Programs

This online teacher licensure program provides two uniquely different routes for candidates seeking elementary, secondary, K-12, special education, or linguistically diverse education licensure.

Both Teach Now Program routes are 12 months in length and provide on-the-job teacher preparation for second-career professionals. School districts are invited to collaborate with the College in the implementation of these post-baccalaureate teacher licensure program routes.

Route 1: Teach Now Alternative Licensure
This program is designed for candidates who have a full-time teaching position in an accredited Colorado school. The alternative licensure candidate must be teaching in the content area for which he or she is seeking licensure.
Admission. To apply, students must:
    1.  hold a minimum of a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution;
    2.  complete the Teach Now Program application;
    3.  complete the Colorado Department of Education (CDE) application, including transcript review for content knowledge;
    4.  pass the appropriate state content exam (PLACE or Praxis II);
    5.  secure a full-time teaching contract with an accredited Colorado school; and,
    6.  attend the Teach Now Program orientation during the summer.

Program Design and Support. Teach Now interns:
    1.  complete 24-27 Teach Now undergraduate college credits throughout the school year;
    2.  receive ongoing support from a master-level mentor teacher in the content area in which the candidate is seeking licensure; and,
    3.  receive support team assistance from a school administrator, mentor teacher and the Teach Now regional coordinator

Cost. Fees remitted by the candidate cover the cost of delivering the training program, providing mentoring and school support, professional development, and 24-27 semester credits. Additional fees for which the candidate is responsible include: Colorado Department of Education (CDE) application fees, transcript evaluation fees, lodging and travel costs, and textbooks associated with the Program.
Route 2: Teach Now Internship
Candidates receive intensive licensure training in K-12 classrooms within their local communities. During the internship, candidates work with master teachers in the same content area in which they are seeking licensure.
Admission. To apply, students must:
    1.  hold a minimum of a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution;
    2.  complete the Teach Now Program application;
    3.  undergo transcript review for content knowledge and degree verification;
    4.  pass the appropriate state content exam (PLACE or Praxis II);
    5.  pass Professional Disposition Screening prior to placement and after first class;
    6.  accept internship placements approved by Teach Now Program faculty and local school personnel; and,
    7.  attend the Teach Now Program orientation during the summer.

Program Design and Support. Teach Now interns:
    1.  co-teach with master teachers equivalent to three full school days per week for the entire school year;
    2.  complete 24-27 Teach Now undergraduate semester credits throughout the school year;
    3.  receive ongoing support from a master level mentor teacher in the content area in which the candidate is seeking licensure; and,
    4.  receive support team assistance from a school administrator, mentor teacher and the Teach Now regional coordinator

Cost. Fees remitted by the candidate cover the cost of delivering the training program, providing mentoring and school support, professional development, and 24-27 semester credits. Additional fees for which the candidate is responsible include: transcript evaluation fees, lodging and travel costs, and textbooks associated with the program.

Teach Now Course Work

The Elementary Licensure Program requires 27 credits of education course work:
EDUC 400  Foundations for Literacy: Phonology and Linguistics 3 cr
EDUC 401  Assessment for Prevention and Intervention 3 cr
EDUC 402  Reading Comprehension, Vocabulary, and Fluency 3 cr
EDUC 404  Creating Positive Learning Environments 3 cr
EDUC 405  Data-driven Instructional Practices 3 cr
EDUC 408  Teaching Writing with the Brain in Mind 3 cr
EDUC 413  Mathmatical Investigations 3 cr
EDUC 459  Elementary Student Teaching 1-6 cr

The Secondary (with the exception of Secondary English Licensure) and K-12 Licensure Program requires 24 credits of education course work:
EDUC 403  Instruction and Assessment in the Content Area 3 cr
EDUC 404  Creating Positive Learning Environments 3 cr
EDUC 405  Data-driven Instructional Practices 3 cr
EDUC 406  Content Area Literacy 3 cr
EDUC 407  Technology Integration for Student Growth 3 cr
EDUC 408  Teaching Writing with the Brain in Mind 3 cr
Appropriate Student Teaching course:
EDUC 409  Secondary Student Teaching 1-6 cr
EDUC 410  K-12 Student Teaching 1-6 cr

The Secondary English Licensure Program requires 27 credits of education course work:
EDUC 401  Assessment for Prevention and Intervention 3 cr
EDUC 402  Reading Comprehension, Vocabulary, and Fluency 3 cr
EDUC 403  Instruction and Assessment in the Content Area 3 cr
EDUC 404  Creating Positive Learning Environments 3 cr
EDUC 405  Data-driven Instructional Practices 3 cr
EDUC 407  Technology Integration for Student Growth 3 cr
EDUC 408  Teaching Writing with the Brain in Mind 3 cr
EDUC 409  Secondary Student Teaching 1-6 cr

The Special Education Generalist Licensure Program requires 27 credits of education course work:
EDUC 400  Foundations for Literacy: Phonology and Linguistics 3 cr
EDUC 401  Assessment for Prevention and Intervention 3 cr
EDUC 402  Reading Comprehension, Vocabulary, and Fluency 3 cr
EDUC 411  Differentiating Instruction for Learners with Diverse Needs 3 cr
EDUC 412  Affective and Behavioral Needs 3 cr
EDUC 413  Mathmatical Investigations 3 cr
EDUC 414  Assessment, Curriculum, Collaboration and Transitions 3 cr
EDUC 415  Special Education Student Teaching 1-6 cr

The Linguistically Diverse Education Licensure Program requires 27 credits of education course work:
EDUC 400  Foundations for Literacy: Phonology and Linguistics 3 cr
EDUC 401  Assessment for Prevention and Intervention 3 cr
EDUC 402  Reading Comprehension, Vocabulary, and Fluency 3 cr
EDUC 404  Creating Positive Learning Environments 3 cr
EDUC 413  Mathmatical Investigations 3 cr
EDUC 416  Language Acquisition for Linguistically Diverse Students 3 cr
EDUC 417  Cognitive Academic Language Proficiency in the Content Area 3 cr
EDUC 418  Linguistically Diverse Student Teaching  3 cr

Teach Now Online Administrator Licensure Program
This program is designed for candidates who have full-time administrative positions in the state of Colorado. The online administrative licensure program can be completed in twelve months and provides on-the-job administrator preparation for second-career professionals. School districts are invited to collaborate with the College in the implementation of this post-baccalaureate program.

Admission. To apply, the student must: 
    1.  show completion of a teacher or special services provider preparation program, from an accepted institution of higher education, demonstrate eligibility for or hold a valid Colorado teacher or special services provider license, and provide documented evidence of three or more years of full-time successful experience; or 

     2.  provide documented evidence of three or more years of full-time successful experience as a teacher or special services provider in a non-public elementary or secondary school in this or another state; or 

    3.  provide documented evidence of three or more years of full-time successful management experience; and
be employed pursuant to the provisions of section 22-32-110.4 by a school district under an individualized alternative principal program, if the program is approved by the state board as provided in this subsection. A school district may employ a person who holds a principal authorization to perform the duties of a principal or a vice principal in a school, as long as the person who holds the authorization is under the supervision of a professional principal licensee. (Note: This experience could be in business and/or in government.  The candidate could also have served as a principal or

4.  administrator in a non-public school but without having acquired a teaching license or three-years or more of teaching experience.)

Administrative Licensure Program requires 28 credits of education course work:
EDUC 470  Studies in Leadership 4 cr
EDUC 471  Supervision of Student Conduct 2 cr
EDUC 472  Management, Evaluation, and Personnel Supervision 3 cr
EDUC 473  School Site Safety and Maintenance 2 cr
EDUC 474  Parent and Community Involvement 2 cr
EDUC 475  Planning and Organization 3 cr
EDUC 476  Individualized Instruction 2 cr
EDUC 477  Resource Management 1 cr
EDUC 478  Internship 1-6 cr
EDUC 479  Capstone 3 cr