Academic Catalog - Concordia College

For those who wish to be teachers in the elementary or pre-schools of The Lutheran Church—
Missouri Synod, additional requirements for the Lutheran Teacher Diploma are required:
REL 300 Lutheran Doctrine I
REL 301 Lutheran Doctrine II
EDU 400 Teaching Religion/Office Ministry
Graduates of Concordia’s teacher education program are expected to demonstrate content
area knowledge in their field of specialization, an understanding of students’ developmental
and cognitive abilities, and the ability to utilize appropriate methods and materials in the
classroom. All teacher education candidates are required to pass Concordia’s Proficiency
Examination and the Basic Skills (Praxis I) portion of the Alabama Prospective Teachers Testing
Program before being accepted into the program. Prospective teachers must pass Praxis II to
apply for internship.
Issuance of an Alabama teaching certificate is the legal responsibility of the Alabama State
Department of Education. Institutions cannot issue a professional certificate. Persons who are
unable to demonstrate both knowledge and ability as described above will not be
recommended for a teaching certificate even though their academic records show all the
necessary courses. To qualify for a certificate, a candidate must complete the approved course
of study and all testing requirements. When a candidate successfully completes the approved
course of study, the institution recommends to the State Department of Education that the
appropriate certificate be issued.
Admission Requirements for Teacher Certification Program
To enter a teacher certification program, candidates must successfully complete all admissions
requirements, including the completion of a formal application for admission to a teacher
education program. Formal admission is required before any candidate is permitted to register
for professional internship. Formal admission is granted on the basis of the candidate’s
qualifications according to policies established by the State Board of Education and Concordia
College. These policies are subject to change; therefore, candidates should contact the Office of
Teacher Education to determine the exact admission requirements at a given time.
Application for admission to a teacher education program must be filed with the Office of
Teacher Education at least one semester prior to the semester of desired admission.
Requirements for admission include the following:
Pass the Basic Skills (Praxis I) portion of the APTTP
Earn a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher.
Earn a minimum of 2.0 on all English, Math, Science, and Technology courses
Receive satisfactory recommendations from department chairperson, advisor, and
faculty members.
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