Transition to Teaching

Who is this program for?

  • Individuals who hold a bachelor’s degree in a field other than education, but have realized they have a passion for education
  • Individuals who have a cumulative 3.0 or above GPA, or who have maintained a GPA between 2.50-2.99 and have 5 years of related work experience (Contact an enrollment counselor for details)
  • There is no GPA requirement if you hold a master’s degree or above

Program Structure

  • The program is 12 months with cohort groups starting May and October
  • Classes meet in the evening from 6 to 10 p.m.
  • During the second semester, there is a fieldwork requirement in addition to the evening classes
  • During the last semester, there is 14-weeks of full-time student teaching
  • The Elementary Education program (K-6) is 24 credits
  • The Secondary Education program (5-12) is 18 credits

Admission Requirements

Please submit the following documents to agsadmission@betheluniversity.edu:

Please note: A copy of your résumé and essay will be sent to schools when securing fieldwork and school teaching placements.

  • Official Undergraduate and, if available, Graduate Transcripts
  • Essay: one page, double-spaced. Include your name and title the essay, “What Makes a Great Teacher”
  • Résumé: a personal or professional resume. References not needed.
  • The State of Indiana requires teacher candidates to demonstrate proficiency in basic academic skills by successfully completing a 3-part test in reading, writing, and math called the Core Academic Skills Assessment (CASA). Details on how to purchase and take these tests, as well as possible exemptions, can be found here: CASA Test Information
  • In order to complete fieldwork and student teaching requirements, a background check is required for each teacher candidate. Details on the cost and procedure for obtaining this check will be given at orientation.
  • Interview with Director of Education, which will be scheduled by Enrollment Counselor.

Program Option

Transition to Teaching can lead to a Master of Arts in Teaching degree

  • Elementary - Additional 12 credits required
  • Secondary - Additional 18 credits required

Required Courses

Tuition and Fees

Graduate Programs
Ministry/Theology = $320 per credit hour
Education = $400 per credit hour
Transition-to-Teaching = $400 per credit hour
Other (MA, MBA, MSN, MAC) = $465 per credit hour

Service Assessment (per semester) for all programs:

  • Full-time undergraduate nontraditional students: $185
  • Full-time graduate students: $160
  • All part-time students: $135
  • Summer school: $125

Financial Aid and Payment Options

Donna Azcuna '17

"I desire to reach the marginalized ... I hope to someday work in low-income areas and provide affordable mental healthcare and services for those who do not have access to these resources. Bethel's psychology program has equipped me not only to help people, but to make a difference in the world. The classes have provided a space to explore the different perspectives within psychology. My psychology internship to Africa broadened my view of the world." -- Donna Azcuna '17

Laura McElligott, Granger, Ind.

Bethel's Transition to Teaching Program empowered me to realize my lifelong dream of becoming a teacher many years after earning my bachelor’s degree in another field. This rigorous and challenging program proved to be well worth the effort because it gave me the resources and strategies needed to become an effective educator. The program offers strong collaboration between the students and professors and the latest teaching methods. I highly recommend this program to anyone who is passionate about teaching and wants to make a difference in the lives of children

Susan Keszei, South Bend, Ind.

Transition to Teaching has provided me the educational tools and essential knowledge I feel is needed to succeed as a teacher within today’s challenging classrooms. Even the demands and stamina it requires to complete the intense one year program simulates and prepares me for the demands and requirements it takes to teach on my own. I am grateful to Transition to Teaching that I do not have to wait another four years to fulfill my passion I feel confident and secure I am prepared to teach and will do so successfully. Thank you Transition to Teaching!

Contact Us

Ashlyn Havens

Ashlyn Havens

Titles: AGS Admission Counselor
Email:
Phone Numbers:
Work: 574.807.7353
Sandra Lesko

Sandra Lesko

Titles: Academic Advisor
Email:
Phone Numbers:
Work: 574.807.7328