Introduction: Seattle Pacific University offers three different routes for the Professional Certification program. While all programs begin and end with a seminar, candidates may choose courses that lead to a Master's degree and/or courses that are offered through Continuing Education.  When a district/ESD has a partnership with SPU, the seminars will be offered on-site by district/ESD personnel.

It is important to note that, as specified by the State, the criteria, the standards, and the final evaluation remain consistent in all programs. Additionally, all routes to certification are centered on these components for each candidate: two, year-long seminars, the 12 criteria of the Professional Certificate developed through the Professional Growth Plan (PGP), the Professional Growth Team (PGT) and a performance-based portfolio produced by the candidate to demonstrate evidence of competency in each area. SPU is committed to a program that is accessible to all candidates, that is conducted in close collaboration with K-12 educators and that supports the individual needs of beginning teachers. Each candidate will have a unique set of core courses beyond what occurs in the two required seminars.

1. Admission 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. The program: The program is intended to be individualized, performance-based, and delivered site-based and online.

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 colleague and a district/ESD/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: ESDs, 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 instructor, according to the described criteria, will review each piece of evidence within the portfolio. As required in the State form, the district/ESD 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.

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

4. 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 accepted individually as they are for other transfer students.

5. School of Education Conceptual Framework: Our Professional Certificate program is also consistent with the School of Education conceptual framework 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."

6. 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 SPU must accompany the final paperwork.

7. Course Registration and Fees: Once a completed application is received, you will be sent verification of acceptance. You will then be able to register for the seminar. Credits taken with the district or an ESD range in price from $150 to $183.  Credits for the online program are $285 per credit.  The Pre-Assessment and the Culminating seminars are each 3 credits over 3 quarters.

For further information: call the Continuing Education Office at 206-281-3520 or toll free at 800-589-4038 (press 1) or email Bree Aseltine at profcert@spu.edu.