The program is designed to meet the requirements for residency certification by the state of Washington. It provides elementary certification classes at the McChord AFB extension and secondary certification classes for those who wish to teach at the middle and high school levels at Fort Lewis Army extension. There is a minimum of two endorsements required for either the elementary or secondary program. To be accepted to the program, the individual must have demonstrated academic ability, broad liberal arts preparation, a major field of study acceptable for kindergarten grade 12 school teaching and realistic career plans. A candidate accepted into the Teacher Certification Program can begin coursework any term and progress at his or her own pace.
Terms are eight weeks long.
Some classes are available Saturdays. These are from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Each course in the program is offered at least twice a year to give students flexibility in planning. After finishing all other coursework in the program, the student must complete a student teaching internship. Internships are 16 weeks in length and can start in either August or January. Student interns work days, fulltime, and are unpaid.