At the Tulane School of Professional Advancement, we offer a Teacher Preparation and Certification Program (TPCP) that combines industry-relevant coursework and focused field experience. We educate beginning teachers and support experienced teachers.
A strong commitment to learning is a necessary foundation for self-evaluation and continuous professional learning, two hallmarks of education leaders. Tulane SoPA candidates are expected to be catalysts for social change and innovative leadership, teaching and improving the lives of PK-12 students, both in and out of the classroom.
Our Mission: To develop innovative, caring, and knowledgeable educators who use an interdisciplinary approach to meet the needs of diverse learners
Our Vision: An innovative and caring educator in every classroom
Post-Baccalaureate Teacher Certification
The Teacher Preparation and Certification Program (TPCP) is a post-baccalaureate program that offers a pathway to teaching certification in Early Childhood Education (PreK-3) and Secondary Education (6-12) in specific content areas, including English, mathematics, science (biology, chemistry, physics), social studies and foreign language (French, German, Italian, Latin, Spanish) from the Louisiana State Department of Education. We offer post-baccalaureate certificates and teacher certifications in Early Childhood (pre-kindergarten-3rd grade) and Secondary Education (6th-12th grade). We also offer four courses that collectively earn an English as Second Language (ESL) endorsement if you are currently a certified teacher in the state of Louisiana. We also offer courses for a Special Education K-12 add on certification.
If you hold a bachelor’s degree but are not a licensed teacher, you should apply for the PBC in Early Childhood Education (PreK-3) or Secondary Education (6-12).
If you are currently a licensed teacher or are working in a school that does not require licensure, you may apply for the PBC Pathway to Add-on Certification in Mild-to-Moderate K-12 Special Education.
SoPA also offers in-service and pre-service teachers the opportunity to accelerate their academic progress through summer intensive sessions in Theories of Learning and Teaching English as a Second Language.
Teaching, Learning, and Training Minor
We offer a Teaching, Learning, and Training minor that is designed for non-licensure education Tulane SoPA students and Newcomb-Tulane students, who have an interest in education and/or wish to take Education courses in order to better prepare them for future, professional goals. This minor, in conjunction with core courses (which includes a course on learning theories, specifically designed for this minor) and a new capstone course (also specifically designed for this minor), has various service-learning courses (60-70 hours of service learning opportunities embedded within), in which students have an opportunity to work with diverse populations in educational settings.
Summer Institute
Tulane offers two options during the summer to complete 3-credit courses over 3 week intensive sessions. These intensives provide in-service and pre-service teachers the opportunity to accelerate their academic progress. Additionally, the Theories of Learning intensive satisfies the educational psychology requirement required for teacher certification in Louisiana. These learning experiences are designed to meet the needs of teachers and also open to Newcomb-Tulane College students.
Accredited Teacher Certification Program
The Teacher Preparation and Certification Program at Tulane University's School of Professional Advancement was awarded TEAC accreditation by the Inquiry Brief Commission of the Council for the Accreditation of Education Preparation (CAEP). TEAC accreditation is offered to professional education programs that succeed in preparing competent, caring, and qualified professional educators. Tulane students enrolled in a B.A., B.S., or B.F.A. degree at Tulane University may also pursue teacher certification in Early Childhood Education (PreK-3) or Secondary Education (grades 6-12) through the alternative teacher certification approved by the Louisiana State Department of Education.
Flexible Programs Catered to Professionals
Whether you’ve been considering going back to school to advance your current knowledge and professional network, or you are choosing to venture into a new career, we want to put you on a path that will work for you. Our flexible course programs are designed with your working schedule or busy home life in mind.
Education Advisory Board
Advisory boards provide invaluable guidance to the TPCP program. Members offer strategic and programmatic advice and feedback to help ensure that this program directly connects to workforce needs.
Faculty With Field Experience
Our instructors bring extensive backgrounds in education, teaching, and leadership. With small class sizes and collaborative learning opportunities, students are able to build close relationships with both professors and peers, helping to support your success in the classroom and beyond.
Summer Study Abroad
Tulane University has canceled the Summer 2020 coursework in Italy due to COVID-19. Please reach out to your advisor to discuss course options. This page will be updated with information on Summer 2021 as we learn more.
"An Educational Experience Exploring Art, Cultural Development and the Reggio Emilia Approach to Education”
Ferrara, a beautiful city known for its Renaissance palaces and castles and world-famous cuisine, is located in Italy's Emilia-Romagna region. This summer abroad experience also offers a wealth of culture, community, and content.
Students have the option to choose two 3-credit hour courses in Education, Art History, and Psychology. These courses focus on the Reggio Emilia Approach to Education, the growth and development of children and adolescents, and art appreciation in Italy.
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The Four Requirements for Teaching in Louisiana