Some scholarships are available through the School of Education for students who demonstrate financial need. The basic credential programs take twelve months to complete. This includes the student teaching requirements. Most programs take three to five years to complete because the students are employed full-time. It is possible to complete the requirements in a shorter time period if the student attends full-time and is not employed.
Most classes meet once a week for two and one-half to three hours.
In addition, students spend about 20-30 hours on study, observations, and field experiences outside of scheduled class meetings. Student teaching and practicum are full-time commitments and are usually accompanied by a weekly seminar on campus. It is not recommended that students try to work during the basic credential programs because of the intensity of the study. Once student teaching begins, it requires a full-time commitment. The part-time faculty are currently teaching, administering, or counseling, or are retired and have had extensive professional experience.