Foundations of Teacher Education
Degree Type
60-credit Associate of Applied Science Degree
Program Code
10-522-2
Time to Degree
2 years
Start Date
August / January / June
How You'll Learn
Online
Hybrid
8-Week Courses
Evening
Those working with elementary/middle school students understand the complex educational issues involving children. In this program, acquire skills to help students learn by providing individualized instruction under the supervision of a licensed teacher. Provide support with reading, writing, math and science; develop strategies to guide young children’s behavior; and gain skills to work with children with special needs.
Please note: A physical examination and caregiver background check is required prior to the program for the field placement internship course.
How To Apply
- Apply online and pay the $30 application fee.
- Submit a copy of one of the following to demonstrate your reading, writing and math skills:
- High school GPA of 2.60 or above. Transcript must include completed coursework through the 11th grade.*
- ACT, ACCUPLACER® or GED - 2014 Series (165 or higher).*
- Prior college coursework may meet this requirement in whole or in part. Courses must be in the specific area(s), and you must have earned a grade of C or better (2.0 on a 4.0 scale) in the courses.*
- If none of the above apply, sign up for the ACCUPLACER® placement test.
*Unofficial copies of these documents can be sent to admissions@wctc.edu.
Licensed, working paraeducators only: Submit a copy of your Special Education Program Aide License or General Education Paraeducator Verification.
Questions on the application process? Visit the Admissions page or contact an enrollment counselor.
Program Details
Contact Us
Questions? We'd love to help! Connect with our Enrollment team by filling out our online form or by email at enroll@wctc.edu.
Potential Careers
Those working as para-educators enjoy working with students and providing support to classroom teachers. If you like being around school-age children and are compassionate to their needs, can take direction from lead teachers and members of the educational team, and are patient, a job as a para-educator might be for you.
- Paraeducator
- Instructional Assistant
- Special Education Para-professional
- Early Education Teacher
- Teacher Assistant
High School Eligibility
This program is open to qualified high school applicants. Learn more >
Required Practicum
The Foundations of Teacher Education program includes two structured practicum courses that provide hands-on experience in real K–9 classroom settings. Each practicum builds on previous learning, offering students increased responsibility and deeper engagement with children, instructional strategies, and classroom environments. During these experiences, students apply the Wisconsin Educator Standards and connect theory to practice.
Practicum Details
- Practicum 1 is offered in the fall semester
- Practicum 2 is offered in the spring semester
- Each practicum runs for 16 weeks
- Minimum of 120 hours in a K–9 school setting
Eligibility Requirements
Before beginning a practicum, students must:
- Be officially enrolled in the Foundations of Teacher Education (FOTE) program
- Complete a state and federal criminal background check
- Successfully complete Mandated Reporter training
- Meet all course prerequisites
Background Check Policy
The criminal background check ensures that students have not engaged in behavior deemed unsafe for working with K–9 students. Individuals unable to pass a background check may, in some cases, be ineligible for graduation, for teaching licensure or employment upon graduation. This requirement is mandated by Wisconsin Administrative Code PI 34.
All eligibility requirements must be met before beginning any practicum placement.
Career Salaries
$32,900 – $39,900 annually
Salary range estimates based on wages for related occupations in Waukesha County as reported by Lightcast. Individual wages may vary based on experience, industry, location and specific job requirements. Find our graduates' entry wages in the most recent Graduate Success Report.
Financial Aid
As a program student, you are eligible to receive:
- Financial aid loans
- Scholarships
- Other forms of assistance
Learn more about financial aid.
What Makes This Program Unique
- Practice learned skills in K-12 settings throughout the program. Area public school sites provide practicum experience in the third and fourth semesters.
- Upon completion, graduates are eligible to apply for a Short Term Substitute Teacher License and begin instruction as a substitute teacher in the classroom.
- Work as a paraeducator in pre-K through grade 12 settings, or take your career a step further to earn a bachelor's degree and become a licensed teacher.
Similar Programs
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Program Pathway
Earn certificates, technical diplomas and/or industry credentials along this pathway. Start with some courses for entry-level employment, and continue with additional courses for higher wages and job advancement.
Foundations of Teacher Education Pathway
Earn credit for prior learning for the college-level knowledge and skills that you've already acquired through advanced high school classes, previous college coursework, self-study, military training work or volunteer experience.
More Credit Opportunities
High School Dual Credit
Dual enrollment offers high school students an opportunity to get a head start in high-demand fields while earning college credits.
Credit for Prior Learning
You may have the opportunity to obtain credit for the college-level skills and knowledge you've already acquired through prior coursework, work experience and more.
Transfer Opportunities After WCTC
WCTC has credit transfer agreements with many four-year institutions that allow our degree graduates to transfer credits into a baccalaureate program, often at junior-level standing.