Certification in College Teaching
The University Graduate Certification in College Teaching, an initiative of the Michigan State University Graduate School, helps graduate students organize, develop, and document their teaching experiences. Through a series of focused workshops, a class on disciplinary teaching methods, and a mentored project, participants will build and consolidate their preparation for college and university teaching. The program culminates in an e-portfolio that will help students prepare for academic job interviews and plan for their professional development as early career faculty.
What are the goals and benefits of this program?
Most new faculty will have had advanced training in their discipline and some teaching experience, but few will have participated in programs that prepare them for a career in higher education. As competition for faculty positions increases, graduate students who are well prepared as researchers will also need to demonstrate careful preparation as teachers and colleagues.
How do I get started? Submit the application form, statement of interest, and a letter of support form your research advisor to your college’s Graduate Associate Dean.
How do I complete, and what will I have at the end?
The final teaching portfolio, documenting participation in required activities and reflection on the core competency areas, will be submitted to the college Graduate Associate Dean and to the Graduate School for approval. Completion of the program will be recognized by a Certification notation on the MSU transcript.
CERTIFICATION IN COLLEGE TEACHING: MOVING THROUGH THE PROGRAM
The following colleges have approved programs:
- Agriculture and Natural Resources: http://www.canr.msu.edu/canr/graduate_teaching_certificate
- Arts and Letters: http://gradcerts.cal.msu.edu/
- Communication Arts and Sciences: http://www.cas.msu.edu/276-Certificate-Program-in-Teaching
- Engineering: http://www.egr.msu.edu/academics/graduate/certification-in-college-teaching-program
- Natural Science: http://ns.msu.edu/index.php/admissions/graduate-studies-in-physical-mathematical-and-life-sciences/certification-in-teaching/
- Social Science: Website currently being revised, for further information please contact Dr. DeBrenna Agbenyiga (Associate Dean for Graduate Studies and Inclusion) at: DeBrenna.Agbenyiga@ssc.msu.edu
Here is some information to help you get started:
- Descriptions of core competencies
- Mentored teaching project worksheet
- Sample worksheet for beginning workshop reflections
- Mentored Teaching project evaluation template
- Sample worksheet for draft reflections
- Portfolio checklist
- E-portfolio evaluation template