Educator Licensure and Accreditation FAQs

• General Licensure Information for Prospective and Current Walden Educator Candidates
• Endorsement FAQs
• Education Accreditation FAQs (NCATE)

General Licensure Information for Prospective and Current Walden Educator Candidates

Prospective and current Walden candidates must research their own state requirements prior to enrolling in a program to help ensure that upon completion, the program will meet any specific objectives the individual may have, such as obtaining a license/certificate, endorsement, upgrade, renewal, or salary increase. Licensure requirements vary state by state and are constantly evolving. Enrollment advisors can provide general guidance, but it is important that candidates research their own state and stay apprised of policy changes.

What should I look for when researching my state’s requirements?

Many states have requirements that are specific to individuals prepared at out-of-state institutions. Individuals from states other than Minnesota should look for requirements specific to individuals prepared at out-of-state institutions. Pay particular attention to the following terms:

Regional accreditation—Institutions receive regional accreditation from one of six accrediting agencies recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and Council for Higher Education Accreditation. Walden is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and a member of the North Central Association.

Professional/program accreditation—Programs offered by an institution or the institution’s college/school/department of education can receive professional accreditation by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) or Teacher Education Accreditation Council (TEAC). Neither The Richard W. Riley College of Education and Leadership nor any of its programs are currently accredited by NCATE or TEAC.

State-approved program—For individuals to be eligible for initial licensure and some endorsements (particularly reading/reading specialist and teacher leadership), states may require that they complete a program that has been approved by a state agency responsible for educator licensing.

Individuals completing a program approved in one state typically can apply for licensure in another state. Candidates should refer to for state specific licensure issues for additional information.

The following programs are state-approved for licensure/endorsements:

• the Teacher Preparation Program with an M.A.T. degree with a specialization in early childhood education and two specializations in special education
• the special education endorsement programs which can be taken with the option of earning an M.S. in Education (M.S. Ed.) degree
• the principal preparation program (P–12), which leads to the Ed.S. in Educational Leadership and Administration (available January 2010)

When applying for licensure in a state other than Minnesota, candidates should review whether: a) they can apply directly to their state department of education based on the completion of a state-approved program (i.e., a program completer state), or b) if their state requires that they actually obtain the license from the state where the institution is located before applying (i.e., a license-in-hand state).

If your intent upon completion of your program is to seek an initial license/certificate, endorsement, renewal, upgrade, or salary increase, you are strongly encouraged to review your state’s requirements and let your enrollment advisor or academic advisor know your career objectives.

If you do not already have a teaching license:

I want to become a teacher. Can Walden University help me?

Yes. Walden University has received state approval from the Minnesota Board of Teaching to offer a teacher preparation program that leads to Minnesota licensure in early childhood education (birth through grade 3) and special education (P–12 learning disabilities and/or P–12 emotional/behavioral disorders). These programs are designed for individuals who already hold a bachelor’s degree.

Individuals who want to teach in a state other than Minnesota may be eligible for an initial license/certificate by completing the state-approved teacher preparation programs. When reviewing state requirements, prospective teacher candidates should check if:

• The state offers a license/certificate with grade and age levels that are comparable with the programs listed above
• The state is a license-in-hand or program completer state (see definitions)
• There are any additional requirements to complete prior to being issued a license/certificate (i.e., additional exams, coursework particular to that state, background checks)
• There are any requirements specific to your state or out-of-state or online institutions

Is Walden University’s teacher preparation program a state-approved program?

Yes. Walden University’s teacher preparation program in early childhood education and special education is approved by the Minnesota Board of Teaching. Walden has also been approved by the Minnesota Board of School Administrators to offer a P–12 principal preparation program. The principal preparation program (Ed.S. in Educational Leadership and Administration) is available January 2010.

Individuals who want to be licensed/certified in a state other than Minnesota should research their state’s requirements, paying particular attention to any requirements specific to teacher or principal candidates completing a state-approved program from an out-of-state institution.

Does Walden University offer teacher preparation in fields other than early childhood education and special education, such as elementary education?

Not at this time. However, Walden University's current teacher preparation program with a specialization in Early Childhood Education (Birth–Grade 3) includes preschool through grade three, which allows a program completer to teach in a public elementary school up through third grade in states that offer a license or certificate with grade- and age-level comparability to Minnesota's.

Walden has also been approved by the Minnesota Board of School Administrators to offer a principal preparation program (P–12). The principal preparation program (Ed.S. in Educational Leadership and Administration) is available January 2010.

At the end of Walden’s teacher preparation program, will I be a licensed teacher in Minnesota?

Not automatically. The Minnesota Department of Education, not Walden University, grants educator licenses. However, by completing a Walden teacher preparation program, you will have met the educational requirements for the license. You will then need to pass all of the required Praxis tests, clear a background check, and apply to the Minnesota Department of Education. They will make the final determination and grant you your teaching license.

What is the process for a teacher candidate to receive a teaching license in Minnesota?

First, please note that the Minnesota Department of Education grants teaching licenses, not Walden University. Candidates for teacher licensure must successfully complete one of Walden University’s state-approved teacher preparation program specializations (e.g., early childhood education or special education).

Before Walden can recommend a candidate for licensure to the Minnesota Department of Education, the candidate must:

• Complete Walden’s state-approved teacher preparation program.
• Pass the Praxis I and the Praxis II tests pertinent to the teaching content area.
• Undergo a Minnesota background check.
• Ensure that all Minnesota Department of Education requirements are met.

Where should I go to find out more information about getting a Minnesota teaching license?

The Minnesota Department of Education, Educator Licensing Web site is a great resource.

What is covered on the Praxis tests? Can I look at a sample test?

Specific information about what is covered on the Praxis tests is available on the Praxis Web site at www.ets.org/praxis. 

Will I be working in classrooms during the teacher preparation program?

Yes. Throughout Walden’s teacher preparation program, you will spend approximately five hours per course in classrooms, completing field experiences (an average of one hour a week during the course’s duration). During this time, you will complete activities and assignments, including observing, interviewing, and interacting with children, and creating and teaching lessons. Then, at the end of the program, you’ll spend 14 weeks full-time in demonstration teaching (also known as candidate teaching) split into two experiences at different age levels. During each experience, you will take over all responsibilities for the classroom and implement what you have learned during the program.

Will I earn a degree with the teacher preparation program?

The post-baccalaureate teacher preparation program in early childhood education and special education lead to the Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.) degree. The endorsement program in special education does not lead to a degree unless you also enroll with the option of completing additional courses and earning an M.S. in Education with a specialization in Special Education (Grades K–12).

If you do not already have a teaching license and live in a state other than Minnesota:

What if I want to obtain a license in a state other than Minnesota? Can I obtain a license in my home state by completing Walden’s teacher preparation program?

In most cases, yes. Candidates should review their own state’s requirements, paying particular attention to the following:

• Requirements specific to individuals prepared out-of-state
• Whether the state issues a license/certificate in a similar subject and grade span
• Whether the state is a program completer or license-in-hand state (see definitions)
• If there are any additional requirements specific to that state (e.g., additional exams, coursework, background checks).

First and foremost, candidates should check whether their state offers a license/certificate or endorsement with grade and age levels comparable to Walden’s program. For example, your state may not offer a special education license in learning disabilities but instead offer special education licenses that are cross-categorical (covering multiple disabilities). In this situation, the candidate should receive acknowledgement from the state as to whether the Walden special education teacher preparation program (i.e., the Early Childhood Education [Birth–Grade 3]; Special Education, Emotional/Behavioral Disorders [K–12]; or Special Education, Learning Disabilities [K–12] specializations) will be accepted for the cross-categorical license.

In many states, there are licensure requirements particular to individuals who complete a program from an out-of-state institution. These requirements may differ from the requirements for individuals completing programs from in-state institutions. Candidates should determine whether out-of-state programs need to be state-approved and/or accredited by an organization, such as NCATE. This applies to endorsements, renewals, upgrades, and salary increases, as well as initial licensure/certification. Please refer to state specific licensure issues for more information.

Some states require that individuals completing a program at an out-of-state institution actually obtain the out-of-state license first; other states do not require the actual license, just completion of a state-approved program. Candidates should review the requirements for individuals completing programs from out-of-state institutions to determine if they must receive their license from the originating state or if completing a state-approved program will allow them to apply directly to their state.

Walden’s enrollment advisors can provide you with guidelines and other information about licensure. It remains your responsibility to understand and comply with the out-of-state licensure requirements for the state in which you seek to be licensed, as requirements vary state by state. Walden University makes no representation or guarantee that successful completion of any program or coursework will permit you to obtain state certification or licensure in your state.

If I live in a state other than Minnesota and want to obtain a teaching license from my home state, do I first have to obtain the Minnesota license?

It depends upon your home state. All states have policies regarding out-of-state procedures that must be followed when someone is eligible for or has received licensure through an out-of-state institution with a state-approved program, such as the Minnesota Board of Teaching-approved programs at Walden University. Some states require that you actually obtain the out-of-state license first while other states do not require the actual license, just completion of a state-approved program.

If you have questions, please contact a Walden University enrollment advisor at 1-866-492-5336. Enrollment advisors can provide information on licensing requirements, but it is your responsibility to understand and comply with the most up-to-date out-of-state licensing information for your state. Please refer to state specific licensure issues for more information.

Is Walden University’s teacher preparation program approved in any other state besides Minnesota?

No. Our program is a Minnesota state-approved program. Just as with the majority of other teacher preparation programs throughout the United States, our program is approved only in our home state. Since Walden University is based in Minnesota, the program is approved by Minnesota. The program may, however, meet the educational requirements for licensure in other states. (Individuals may need to complete additional requirements before being eligible for licensure/endorsement.) You should research your state licensure/certification requirements, paying particular attention to requirements specific to individuals prepared by out-of-state and/or online institutions. Please refer to state specific licensure issues for more information.

Do I need to go to Minnesota to take the Praxis tests?

No. You can take the Praxis tests at any official testing site. The Praxis I is also available online. When you register for the tests, be sure to select Walden University from the list so that your scores can be sent to Walden

What is covered on the Praxis tests? Can I look at a sample test?

Specific information about what is covered on the Praxis tests is available on the Praxis Web site at www.ets.org/praxis. 

Will I be working in classrooms during my teacher preparation program?

Yes. Throughout Walden’s teacher preparation program, you will spend approximately five hours per course in classrooms completing field experiences (one hour a week during the course’s duration). During this time, you will complete activities and assignments, including observing, interviewing, interacting with children, and creating and teaching lessons. Then, at the end of the program, you will spend 14 weeks full-time in demonstration teaching (also known as student teaching) split into two experiences at different age-levels. During each experience, you will take over all responsibilities for the classroom and implement what you have learned during the program.

Will I earn a degree with the teacher preparation program?

The post-baccalaureate teacher preparation programs in early childhood education and special education lead to the Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.) degree. The endorsement program in special education does not lead to a degree unless you also enroll with the option of completing additional courses and earning an M.S. in Education with a specialization in Special Education (Grades K–12).

If you already have a teaching license:

Can Walden’s other graduate courses and programs be used for the renewal of an already-existing teacher license or certificate?

It depends on the state and sometimes on the school district. In most states, graduate coursework that could lead to a master’s degree or the master’s degree itself suffices for “lane changes” on the salary scale and for licensure renewal or upgrading. Typically, the coursework or degree must be earned at a regionally accredited institution of higher education, such as Walden University. Check with your state and your district to learn about any specific requirements. Please refer to state specific licensure issues for more information.

Does Walden’s M.S. in Education program with a specialization in Educational Leadership (Non-Licensure) (Grades K–12) lead to certification as a principal?

If your state requires the completion of a state-approved program, then no. The M.S. in Education with a specialization in Educational Leadership (Non-Licensure) (Grades K–12) program is not approved for administrative licensure in Minnesota (Walden’s home state) or any other state. This program does meet the principal licensure requirements in Texas as part of a partnership with the Harris County Department of Education and in Mississippi. The program may also meet some of the coursework requirements for administrative licensure in states that do not require the completion of a state-approved administrator licensure program.

Individuals interested in obtaining administrative licensure in Mississippi or Texas should refer to state specific licensure issues for more information.

For those interested in principal certification, Walden has a principal preparation program (P–12) (Ed.S. in Educational Leadership and Administration) that is approved by the Minnesota Board of School Administrators for meeting the educational requirements for principal licensure. Candidates may need to satisfy additional state requirements (i.e., assessments, background checks) before being issued a license/certification.
 
Does Walden’s M.S. in Education program with either a specialization in Elementary Reading and Literacy (PreK–6) or a specialization in Elementary Reading and Mathematics (Grades K–6) lead to an endorsement, or add-on certificate, for already-certified teachers?

If your state requires the completion of a state-approved program, then no. Neither specialization has been state-approved in Minnesota as a licensure program and, therefore, would not be recognized as leading to a reading endorsement or reading add-on certificate in states that require the completion of a state-approved program. Neither of these specializations covers the grade span of K–12 or includes a practicum, which are requirements for endorsements in some states.

Endorsement FAQs

If I already hold a current, valid Minnesota teaching license, can Walden University help me earn an endorsement in special education?

Yes. Walden has two Minnesota Board of Teaching-approved endorsement programs. These two state-approved programs are the Special Education Endorsement Program in Learning Disabilities (K–12) and the Special Education Endorsement Program in Emotional/Behavioral Disorders (K–12). Individuals interested in either endorsement program have the option of also receiving a M.S. in Education with a specialization in Special Education. For more information, contact a Walden enrollment advisor at 1-866-492-5336.

I have a current, valid Minnesota teaching license. If I enroll in a Walden endorsement program in special education, will I have to retake the Praxis tests?
You will not need to retake the Praxis I. However, you will have to take the appropriate Praxis II Subject Assessment test.

I have a current, valid Minnesota teaching license. After I complete a Walden special education endorsement program, what else do I need to do to obtain the Minnesota endorsement in special education?

You must also pass both Praxis II tests pertinent to your teaching content area (learning disabilities or emotional/behavioral disorders) and submit a completed endorsement application form along with the fee and the completed institutional recommendation form from Walden. The application form and directions are available on the Minnesota Department of Education Web site.

I have a current, valid teaching license from a state other than Minnesota. Can Walden University help me earn my state’s endorsement in special education?

Yes, in certain states. Because the process for obtaining an endorsement is very different depending upon the state, it is important to understand what your particular state requires. Note that some states do not offer endorsements. If you are interested in a Walden endorsement program, be sure to tell your state’s teacher licensing body that Walden has two Minnesota Board of Teaching state-approved endorsement programs: the Special Education Endorsement Program in Learning Disabilities (K–12) and the Special Education Endorsement Program in Emotional/Behavioral Disorders (K–12). Also tell your state’s teacher licensing body that Walden University is regionally accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and a member of the North Central Association. For general information about your state’s endorsement process, you can also contact a Walden enrollment advisor at 1-866-492-5336.

I have a current, valid teaching license from a state other than Minnesota, and my state only requires that I take certain courses in order to earn a special education endorsement. Can Walden’s special education endorsement program help me?

Yes, if your state’s required courses align well with the courses required by Walden’s special education endorsement programs. To obtain a list of Walden’s special education endorsement courses, please contact a Walden enrollment advisor at 1-866-492-5336 or visit Walden’s Web site by clicking here.

Please note that Walden offers endorsement programs in special education: the Special Education Endorsement Program in Learning Disabilities (K—12) and the Special Education Endorsement Program in  Emotional/Behavioral Disorders (K–12). Your state may require coursework that covers more categories of special education. Also, Walden’s endorsement programs in special education include a six-week, full-time clinical practicum and the requirement to take the appropriate Praxis II test (or the appropriate special education test in your state or, possibly, both).

I have a current, valid teaching license from a state other than Minnesota and my state only requires that I pass a test in order to earn a special education endorsement. Can Walden’s special education endorsement programs help me?

Yes, if the content of your state’s required test aligns well with Walden’s endorsement program in special education course content. Please note that Walden offers two special education endorsement programs: the Special Education Endorsement Program in Learning Disabilities (K–12) and the Special Education Endorsement Program in Emotional/Behavioral Disorders (K–12). Your state’s test may cover more categories of special education. Also, Walden’s special education endorsement programs include a six-week, full-time clinical practicum.

I have a current teaching certificate from Georgia. Will a Walden endorsement program in special education help me add a field in special education behavior disorders or special education learning disabilities?

Yes. Although Georgia has processes for teachers to “add an endorsement” and to “add a field,” Walden's endorsement programs in special education will help you meet the requirements for adding a field—either the Special Education Endorsement Program in Learning Disabilities (K–12) or the Special Education Endorsement Program in Emotional/Behavioral Disorders (K–12)—to your certificate.

Will I be working in classrooms during the endorsement programs in special education?

Yes. Throughout Walden’s special education endorsement programs, you will spend approximately five hours per course in classrooms completing fieldwork (one hour a week during each course). During this time, you will complete activities and assignments including observing, interviewing, and interacting with children and creating and teaching lessons. Then, at the end of the program, you will spend six weeks full-time in a teaching capacity when you will take over all responsibilities for the special education classroom and implement what you have learned during the program. If you are teaching, there is a possibility you can undertake these field-based requirements in your current school assignment.

Will I earn a degree with the special education endorsement programs?

The special education endorsement program does not lead to a degree unless you also enroll in the M.S. in Education with a specialization in Special Education option. In this regard, Walden’s program is like post-baccalaureate endorsement programs at other institutions.

Can Walden’s other graduate courses and programs be used for the renewal of an already-existing teacher license or certificate?

It depends on the state and sometimes on the school district. In most states, graduate coursework that could lead to a master’s degree or the master’s degree itself suffices for “lane changes” on the salary scale and for licensure renewal or upgrading. Typically, the coursework or degree must be earned at a regionally accredited institution of higher education such as Walden University. Check with your state and your district to learn about their specific requirements.

Does the Walden M.S. in Education Educational Leadership specialization lead to certification as a principal?

Walden University offers a principal preparation program (P–12) approved by the Minnesota Board of School Administrators, which leads to an Ed.S. in Educational Leadership and Administration. This is the only state-approved program in educational leadership that is recognized for administrator licensure/certification in Minnesota (Walden’s home state).

Individuals interested in obtaining administrative licensure in Mississippi or Texas should refer to refer to state-specific details for more information.

Walden University makes no representation, warranty, guarantee, or commitment that successful completion of the M.S. in Education, Educational Leadership (Non-Licensure) (Grades K-12) program or coursework for graduate credit within this program will permit a graduate to obtain state certification or licensure as a principal, assistant principal, or any other type of K–12 administrator.
 
Does any of the Walden M.S. in Education specializations related to reading lead to an endorsement, or add-on certificate, for already-certified teachers?

Not in states that require the completion of a state-approved program. These specializations have not been state approved and, therefore, do not lead to endorsements or add-on certificates for teachers in states that require the completion of a state-approved program.

I keep seeing “regionally accredited” listed in multiple places. Is there a problem with me gaining licensure to teach if my bachelor's degree did not come from a regionally accredited institution of higher education?

No, there is no problem, although most states do require that, for educator licensure, you also hold a degree from an institution of higher education that has been accredited by one of the six U.S. regional accrediting associations. If your bachelor’s degree was earned at an institution that was not regionally accredited, you should complete the master’s degree associated with the post-baccalaureate program in which you are enrolled (Teacher Preparation Program with Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.) for initial licensure; special education endorsement program with an option to earn a M.S. in Education with a specialization in Special Education). Because Walden University is regionally accredited, a master’s degree from Walden will place you in compliance with the state licensure requirement to hold a degree from a regionally accredited institution of higher education. In other words, your master’s degree will substitute for your bachelor’s degree in this regard.

Can I transfer credits to Walden?

You may request an unofficial analysis of your transcripts prior to your admission to the program. Call an enrollment advisor 1-866-492-5336 for assistance with the credit-transfer process.

Education Accreditation FAQs (NCATE)

How does education accreditation differ from regional accreditation?

Institutions seek regional accreditation from one of six regional accrediting agencies recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. The accreditation status applies to the entire institution.

Colleges/schools and programs within the institution may receive professional accreditation from a national organization. There are two professional accrediting organizations for the education profession; the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) and Teacher Education Accreditation Council (TEAC). An example of another professional accreditation is the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, which accredits nursing programs.

What Is NCATE (pronounced “en-kate”) accreditation?

NCATE is one of two national accrediting organizations for the education profession in the United States. “NCATE accreditation” refers to approval of an institution’s department/school/college of education by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education. This is a form of specialized, professional accreditation. The institution voluntarily applies to NCATE for this accreditation; in most states, including Minnesota, there is no requirement to do so. NCATE currently reviews about half of the departments/schools/colleges of education in the United States.

Is Walden pursuing NCATE accreditation?

Yes. NCATE accreditation is a peer-review process that measures an institution against a set of standards developed by the professional community. The process involves an intensive self-study and a review by an NCATE-trained team of education colleagues. The process can take up to three years to complete. During this time, Walden programs will continue to be of the highest quality, as attested to by alumni and their employers.

Does this mean you’re not an accredited institution? Or that your programs leading to licensure/certification are not approved?

Walden is a regionally accredited institution, and our post-baccalaureate Teacher Preparation Program with an M.A.T. degree has been state-approved by the Minnesota Board of Teaching. Additionally, the Minnesota Board of School Administrators has approved the principal preparation program (P–12), which leads to the Ed.S. in Educational Leadership and Administration.