Foundations of Teacher Education

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

Online

Hybrid

8-Week Courses

Evening

Now Enrolling: AcceleratED!

Beginning January 2022, an accelerated online option will be available for working, licensed paraeducators.

  • Qualify for DPI short-term substitute teacher licensure upon graduation.
  • Balance class and your full-time work as a paraeducator with online course delivery.
  • Enjoy reduced textbook costs for core courses.
  • Earn credit for work experience already acquired.
  • Take advantage of transfer opportunities into bachelor’s degree programs.

Information sessions coming soon. Check back for updates.

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 a field placement internship course.

Deadlines To Know*

Fall 2023 Start

  • Application Opens: October 1, 2022
  • Application Deadline: August 7, 2023

Spring 2024 Start

  • Application Opens: April 1, 2023
  • Application Deadline: January 8, 2024

Summer 2023 Start

  • This program cannot be started in summer.

* Submit all checklist items by the application deadline. Apply early; deadlines are subject to change based on program demand.

Tuition Costs

The cost of your degree depends on a number of factors, including where you live, how your program is delivered, how long it takes to finish your program and the financial aid you receive. Explore current tuition and fees.

Additional Estimated Costs

  • Zipper binder: $32
  • iPad (128GB)
  • Fingerprint/background check (required every five years): $39
  • Caregiver background check (required annually): $10

This program uses open educational resources (OER) and does not require the purchase of a textbook for core program courses (general education courses may require textbooks).

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.

Questions on the application process? Visit the Admissions page or contact an Enrollment Counselor.

 

Program Details

Questions? We'd love to help! Connect with our Enrollment team by filling out our online form or by email at enroll@wctc.edu.

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.

  • Para-educator
  • Instructional Assistant
  • Special Education Para-professional
  • Early Education Teacher
  • Teacher Assistant

This program is open to qualified high school applicants. Learn more >

$27,000 – $37,300 annually

Salary range estimates based on wages for related occupations in Waukesha County as reported by Economic Modeling Specialists International (EMSI). Individual wages may vary based on experience, industry, location and specific job requirements.

Check the WCTC Graduate Success Report to view our graduates’ entry wages.

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?

1

Practice learned skills in K-12 settings throughout the program. Area public school sites provide practicum experience in the third and fourth semesters.

2

Upon completion, graduates are eligible to apply for a Short Term Substitute Teacher License and begin instruction as a substitute teacher in the classroom.

3

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.

Foundations of Teacher Education

Similar Programs

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 ollege coursework, self-study, military training work or volunteer experience.

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Associate Degree
  • Foundations of Teacher Education (this program)

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.

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.

Learn More

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.

Learn 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.

College Program Name Credit Awards
Carroll UniversityBS Elementary Education with Certification Optionsup to 64
Concordia University - WisconsinBachelor of Accelerated Elementary Education37 + Electives
Lakeland UniversityBA Elementary and Middle School Teacher Certification Program60-72
UW-Green BayBS Education, Ages 6-12/1333+
UW-WhitewaterBS Education, Special Ed major with Licensure in CCSEFull
Viterbo UniversityBS Elementary EducationFull Program
College Program Name Credit Awards
Bellevue UniversityAny Bachelors Degreeup to 60, tuition discount
Franklin UniversityAny Bachelors DegreeJunior Standing
Lakeland UniversityAny Bachelors DegreeJunior Standing, Credits Vary, 20% tuition discount
Mount Mary UniversityBachelor DegreeJunior Standing
Ottawa UniversityBachelor of Arts or Sciencesup to 80, and 20%+ tuition discount for WCTC grads
UW-Green BayOrganizational Leadership - Bachelor of Applied StudiesBlock of 60 credits
UW-StoutBS Management (100% online)up to 60
UW-StoutBS Career, Technical Education & Training (100% online)up to 60
UW-WhitewaterBA Arts and Sciences60+
Wisconsin Lutheran CollegeBachelor of Science in Business Management & Leadership50-70

 

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