Many St. Thomas University undergraduate education majors are immigrants or the children of immigrants who want to become teachers as a step up the economic ladder and an opportunity to serve the community. Some are former teachers from Africa or the Caribbean who have classroom experience and want to teach in Florida. Others are older adults who have jobs and family responsibilities. Some are from outside the United States and want to return to their home countries to pursue teaching careers.

In an effort to meet the unique needs of these non-traditional students, St. Thomas offers undergraduate teacher preparation programs that emphasize the completion of professional education and subject area course work as the only degree requirement. While students in these programs have the option to participate in a final internship and seminar, most cannot take advantage of this option.

These students are prepared to enter the classroom after graduation through a variety of strategies. Education course objectives are aligned to state competencies and skills for professional education and a particular subject area. Required course work is also infused with ESOL training, technology, and the use of a variety of assessment techniques including portfolio assignments. Students can also receive tutoring in Mathematics and English. Their need for experience in the classroom is addressed through field-based experiences incorporated into each required course and tied to the Florida Educator Accomplished Practices.

Graduates are expected to work with a principal to complete any remaining state requirements leading to a professional certificate. “I have hired 5 non-traditional students from the elementary education program at St. Thomas. They have made excellent classroom teachers who easily completed the remaining professional certificate requirements,” said Dr. Julio Carrera, Principal of South Hialeah Elementary School.

Unlike traditional education programs where new classes typically begin twice a year, St. Thomas increases flexibility for its busy students by offering six starting times a year. Classes are offered in the evenings and on line to make it easier for working students to take classes. Despite their hectic schedules, students are able to earn their degrees in four years.