SPU Candidate Application Information

Click here to download the SPU Professional Certificate Application.

1. Admission to program requirements: SPU requires admission of all applicants to include the following: 1) copy of the official Residency Teaching Certificate, 2) written verification of employment in a State of Washington public or approved private school and 3) application fee to SPU. Candidates may begin the program after one year of successful teaching.

If an applicant wishes to pursue a Master's degree, he/she must complete the Master's application process and meet the requirements for any School of Education Master's program prior to completion of the first nine credits of the Professional Certificate Program.

2. Registration: Once a completed application packet is received, the candidate will receive a verification of acceptance and registration packet. The candidate will then register for the seminar.

3. The Program: The program is intended to be individualized, performance-based, and delivered site-based and online, with a field representative who will work with the Professional Growth Team (PGT).

The following steps outline the typical process:

The Pre-Assessment Seminar (3 credits) will assist the candidate in creating a performance-based plan that will lead to the collection of evidence that demonstrates competence in each of the 12 criteria.

A Professional Growth Team consisting of the candidate, a university faculty member, a university field representative, a colleague and a district/ building representative will approve activities designed to meet each standard.

The Action Phase (9 credits) consists of the candidate's implementation of the plan. Some learning will occur in SPU courses while other opportunities for learning will be provided by agencies such as: ESD's, districts and schools. Typical activities include coursework, professional development, writing units, creating student learning opportunities and assessments. The candidate will be monitored and supported during this phase by the PGT.

The Culminating Seminar (3 credits) candidate will present evidence to meet each of the criteria. The PGT, according to the described criteria, will review each piece of evidence within the portfolio. As required in the State form, the district team members will recommend approval to the university supervisor who will provide final review, verification, and recommendation to the State.

Evaluation: SPU is committed to using common rubrics drafted by a State committee for evaluating candidate performance. Suggestions for revision will be provided at this point if the PGT believes that any standard has not been met.

Presentation: Once criteria for all standards have been addressed the student will present the final portfolio of work.

Approval: SPU will certify completion and recommend certification to the State.

4. Accessibility: Since our program is online and accessible statewide, our students can continue with the program even if they move to a district in a distant location.

5. Transfers: Students who wish to enter the SPU program from another university will have an individual review of their Professional Growth Plan as a starting point. Any completed and approved components will be accepted by SPU. Credits will be determined individually as they are for other transfer students.

6. School of Education Mission : Our professional certificate program is also consistent with the SPU School of Education mission statement and with the NCATE 2000 standards. Our mission is "to prepare educators for service and leadership in schools and communities by developing their professional competence and character within a framework of Christian faith and values."

7 . Program Fees: Application to the program should be accompanied by a check for $25. If a Master's Degree is selected, there is an additional fee of $50 to accompany that separate application. When the certificate is completed, an additional $25 check payable to Puget Sound ESD must accompany the final paperwork.