Foundations of Teacher Education
Acquire the skills to help elementary and middle school students learn by providing individualized instruction under the supervision of a licensed teacher. You’ll be able to provide support with reading, writing, math and science. Learn strategies to guide student behavior and gain skills to work with children with special needs. And if you're already working in education, you may be eligible to receive course credit for your work experience.
Why Choose This Program?
If you enjoy 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.
What Makes This Program Unique
- Practice learned skills in K-9 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.
Degree Type
60-credit Associate of Applied Science Degree
Program Code
10-522-2
Time to Degree
2 years
Start Date
August / January / June
Program Catalog
View program overview, learning outcomes and required courses
Please note: A physical examination and caregiver background check is required prior to completing the practicum course.
Program Details
Application Details
- Apply online and pay the $30 application fee.
- Submit a copy of one of the following to demonstrate your reading, writing and math skills:
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- High school transcript that includes 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.
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*Unofficial copies of these documents can be sent to admissions@wctc.edu.
Questions on the application process? Visit the Admissions page or contact an enrollment counselor.
Deadlines To Know*
/WCTC/OffNav/PHP-Blocks/Application-Deadlines?programcode=105222
Work Experience Credit
- Earn up to 15 credits by testing out of first-semester courses.
- Balance class and full-time work with online course delivery.
- Enjoy reduced textbook costs for core courses.
- Qualify for DPI short-term substitute teacher licensure upon graduation.
- Take advantage of transfer opportunities into bachelor's degree programs.
Explore test-out options for EDU courses.
Potential Careers
- Paraeducator
- Instructional Assistant
- Special Education Para-professional
- Early Education Teacher
- Teacher Assistant
- Elementary and Middle School Teacher (with additional education)
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.
Transfer Opportunities
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.
Transfer Spotlight
Transferring your credits into the education prep program at the following schools allows you to seamlessly continue your education. And if you’re already working, the courses at these programs provide scheduling flexibility to meet the needs of working professionals.
Lakeland University
Your courses may be offered onsite at WCTC, giving you a close-to-home option if you’d prefer not to commute to the school’s Plymouth, Wisc. campus.
UW-Whitewater
If you’d like to avoid a commute altogether, UW-Whitewater’s program offers courses online.
High School Eligibility
This program is open to qualified high school applicants. Learn more >
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I test out of some courses?
Yes, options exist to demonstrate you’ve gained the necessary knowledge and skills on the job and earn college credit.
Can I work while in the program?
Yes. This program offers course scheduling flexibility that gives you the chance to fit in your courses around your work schedule.
Can I earn my teacher's license through this program?
The Foundations of Teacher Education program courses lead to a teacher’s license through Lakeland University and UW-Whitewater, allowing you to transfer your credits towards a bachelor’s degree that leads to licensure.
Are classes online or in-person?
Both. Most classes in this program allow you to choose whether to take classes via zoom or in-person based on what works best for you. Some classes are delivered fully online.
Do I get experience in the classroom?
Yes, you complete two practicums and may be able to complete them at your school if you’re already in a classroom.
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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.