Center for Teacher Preparation: Mesa State Application Requirements

Your first Mesa State course (Program Year 3) is EDUC 211/Introduction to Teaching.

Before you enroll in this course, you must provide unofficial transcripts (copies) from all colleges and universities attended to date.

Evidence is sought for the students having taken the gateway courses (or their equivalents) with a grade of B or better (these are required before registering for EDUC 211).

A fingerprint card and complete background clearance through the Colorado and Federal Bureaus of Investigation (approximately cost $36). This process must be completed through the Colorado Department of Education, not other district or governmental agencies.

Mesa State Department of Teacher Education Requirements

After you attend EDUC 211, your professor/advisor will guide you through the following additional steps for formal application and admission to the Mesa State Department of Teacher Education:

A written statement of your beliefs about and philosophy of education. This statement is based on studies and discussions in EDUC 211.

Submission of three letters of recommendation from individuals who believe in the students potential as an educator. Generally, two academic references and one character reference are required; for extenuating circumstances, please speak with the professor of EDUC 211.

Validated evidence of 100 hours of supervised experience with children or youth, the majority of which is at the age level that licensure is sought. This experience may include coaching, community groups, church groups, clubs and organizations for pay or as a volunteer. These hours must have been completed within the past five years, or may be completed during EDUC 211.

During EDUC 211, all students are evaluated for their competency in English and Mathematics.

General Requirements to Complete the Program

To complete the program, you must meet with your Education and academic advisors each semester. It is also your responsibility to be familiar with all policies and procedures of the Department of Teacher Education, and to submit required paperwork by the established departmental deadlines.

Colorado State Teaching Licensure Requirements

Licensure programs at Mesa State College require proficiency in all of the State of Colorado Performance-Based and Model Content Standards, with special emphasis on literacy competence, communication skills, and professional disposition. The introductory and core courses provide a theoretical framework of reading, writing, critical thinking and analysis. These courses are followed by teaching methods and the final internship. Throughout the teacher preparation program, field experiences give you the opportunity to apply educational theory in practical teaching situations.

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