Teacher Licensure | Graduate Studies | Fort Lewis College

Earn your Master's in Education Teacher Licensure

Two teachers work on lesson plans

Introduce young people to the joy of discovery. Immerse yourself in their excitement as they unravel the mysteries of the world.

Be a mentor and role model to children and adolescents. Help them succeed in school and life.

Join the many compassionate, energetic, and dedicated stewards of our future.

Cohorts begin every fall semester.

Teacher Licensure program options

Licensure Pathway

Be eligible for a Colorado teaching certificate that leads to licensure in K-12 specialty areas or Secondary Education.

23 credits

Master of Arts in Education

Earn a Master of Arts in Education for K-12 specialty areas or Secondary Education.

30 credits

For licensure in Early Childhood and Elementary Education, check out our Post-Baccalaureate program. We currently do not offer a graduate level program for licensure specifically in Early Childhood or Elementary Education.

Program overview

Our teacher preparation program incorporates 800 hours of school-based experiences required for Colorado teaching licensure in an innovative, immersive, and structured approach. Our 5-semester hybrid program allows you to earn teacher licensure and a Master of Arts in Education.

You will be eligible for a Colorado teaching certificate after the second semester and be able to complete your Master of Arts in Education after two more semesters, likely during your first year of teaching. The course schedule allows for field placement in the schools between 8 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Features of the program include: 

  • Earn your teaching license in K-12 or Secondary areas by the end of your first year in the program
  • Develop mastery of and pedagogical expertise in your field

  • Study and work in schools with highly qualified teachers, guided by experienced college faculty
  • Have full-time placement aligned with your career goals

  • Join a cohort of career changers in the culturally diverse Four Corners region. Participate in an innovative program model
  • Experience diverse student teaching placement settings

Program requirements

Minimum eligibility for Graduate Studies

Bachelor’s degree 

You have earned a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited college or university. 

Grade point average (GPA) of 3.00 or higher 

You need a 3.00 or higher on a 4.00 GPA scale for undergraduate and prior graduate coursework.

*Note: This is true for coursework, even if it did not lead to a degree. We will calculate a cumulative GPA if you have multiple transcripts. 

GPA exceptions 

If your GPA is below 3.0, and you still wish to apply, you can write a letter to the Admission Committee that includes: 

  • Why you did not meet the 3.0 GPA requirements.
  • An action plan addressing those reasons with specific strategies to balance coursework (including class time and homework) and personal commitments. Your strategy may include:
    • Creating and adhering to a schedule
    • Using FLC’s writing support program and other campus resources
    • Setting regular meetings with faculty
    • Following specific study plans 
Requirements for Teacher Licensure program

You must have a bachelor’s degree to begin this program. Associate degrees do not qualify. 

You must pass the PRAXIS test in your licensure area; see CDE Endorsement Requirements for the PRAXIS test for your area. Alternative Certification students may be eligible to submit a transcript demonstrating 24 credits in their content area instead of taking the PRAXIS. 

We currently do not offer a master’s level program for licensure in Early Childhood or Elementary Education. Check out our Post-Baccalaureate program for Early Childhood and Elementary Education. 
 
For detailed information about licensing, consult the Colorado Department of Education Licensing Office. 

Technology requirements

Teacher Education graduate programs require specific computer technology. Graduate students can use a personal device that meets these requirements or have full access to the campus computer labs. 

View the full list of requirements on the Admitted Student Checklist.

Career Possibilities