How Do I Become a Teacher?
West Texas A&M University offers a traditional undergraduate program with teacher certification, a graduate program with teacher certification, or an alternative teacher certification program for those who already have a bachelor's degree. All programs are accredited by the Texas Education Agency (TEA) and include course work and training, field-based experiences, certification testing, and supervised teaching experience.
Step 1: Choose the grade level and content area you want to teach.
- Teaching certification areas are available based upon state standards and the content area and grade levels you wish to teach.
Grade Levels and Content Areas:
- Core Subjects with Bilingual Preparation
- Core Subjects with ESL Preparation
- Core Subjects
- English Language Arts & Reading
- English Language Arts & Reading/Social Studies
- Mathematics
- Mathematics/Science
- Science
- Social Studies
- Agriculture Science & Technology 6-12
- Business Education 6-12
- Computer Science 8-12
- Dance 6-12
- English Language Arts & Reading 7-12
- History 7-12
- Journalism 8-12
- Life Science 7-12 (Biology major)
- Mathematics 7-12
- Physical Science 6-12 (Chemistry major)
- Science 7-12
- Social Studies 7-12
- Speech 7-12
- Art
- LOTE-Spanish
- Music
- Physical Education (SES major)
- Special Education
- Theatre Arts
Step 2: Select the appropriate teacher preparation program.
Teacher Preparation with a Bachelor's Degree
This traditional undergraduate program is for students seeking a bachelor’s degree along with their teacher certification. Students will take the university core curriculum, plus content hours in their teaching field, as well as professional education course work.
Teacher Preparation with a Master's Degree
The Master of Arts in Teaching is a graduate level program for individuals who have earned a bachelor's degree and wish to enter the teaching profession.
Post-baccalaureate Teacher Certification
The Panhandle Alternative Certification for Educators (PACE) program is an online, university-based teacher certification program for individuals with a bachelor's degree who want to make a career transition into the teaching profession. The program, which ultimately culminates in Texas educator certification, begins with testing, early field-based experiences, and online graduate course work. An eligible candidate may be employed as a Texas teacher or may complete clinical teaching under the supervision of an experienced teacher.
Contact Us
Questions? We're here to help!
Old Main 413 and 415
- Dr. Russell F. Miller, Executive Director of Educator Preparation/Certification Officer, (806) 651-2609
- Gilbert Antunez, Assistant Director of Educator Preparation and Director of Field Experience and Placement, (806) 651-2908
- Dr. Crystal Hughes, Director of Candidate Performance, (806) 651-2605
- Robin Johnson, Lead Undergraduate Education Advisor, (806) 651-2610
- Pyxa Sovilay, PACE Coordinator, (806) 651-2613
- Ray Rigoni, Certificate Support & Academic Advisor, (806) 651-2642
- Heidi Brooks, Administrative Associate, (806) 651-2668
- Office of Educator Certification Main Number, (806) 651-2668