Are you ready to transition from paraprofessional to teacher? The UNO Para to Teacher Pathway offers a high-quality teacher certification program designed especially for you.
The UNO Elementary Para to Teacher Pathway Program offers numerous benefits designed to support your professional growth and success. You'll learn from experienced educational leaders and current practitioners actively working in the field, ensuring your education is grounded in real-world expertise. With high-quality coursework from a reputable, accredited university, you'll gain skills and knowledge that meet the highest standards.
The program's unique cohort model allows you to learn alongside other paraprofessionals and educational assistants, fostering a supportive and collaborative learning environment. A strong partnership between UNO and your school district enhances your development, all within a predictable and consistent schedule tailored to meet your needs.
Steps to Apply
1. Interested in learning more about joining our summer cohort? Fill out the Elementary Para to Teacher Pathway Interest Form and an academic advisor will be in touch to guide you through the process.
2. Apply to UNO by April 1: Undergraduate Application for Admission
3. Apply to the UNO Educator Preparation Program by April 1: Educator Preparation Admission
Admission Requirements
- Associate's degree or general education and prerequisite courses completed
- Employed as a Paraprofessional/Educational Assistant (EA), or plan to become employed, within an Omaha metro-area elementary school
- Availability to participate in a cohort model program for two years
- Admission GPA: 2.5
Program Details
- Certification: Elementary Education
- Scholarship funding available
- Two-year program, including summers
- Coursework delivered through a combination of evening, weekend, and online classes
- Practicum hours fulfilled with and around existing para/EA work and supported with coursework
- A full-time program offers students access to financial aid and campus resources
About the Elementary Education Major
The elementary education major is designed to prepare candidates to meet Nebraska Department of Education requirements for teacher certification. A minimum of 120 credits hours with a minimum GPA of 2.75 are required to graduate from the College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences.
Candidates may choose from several program options. Learn more about endorsement options
Accreditation and Certification
The Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education (BSED) is accredited by the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP) and approved by the Nebraska State Department of Education.
The BSED degree in Elementary Education allows UNO to recommend graduates for Nebraska licensure (B-3, PK – 3, K- 6). In addition, candidates must pass the Praxis II – Elementary Education: Curriculum and Instruction Assessment (5017) with a score of 153 or higher to meet state licensure requirements.
View results for candidates completing Praxis II
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