Embarking on a new career path can be both exciting and daunting, especially when transitioning into the fulfilling field of education. Shenandoah University’s Career Switcher Program is meticulously designed to streamline this transition, offering a robust pathway for professionals from diverse backgrounds to become certified teachers in Virginia. This guide provides a clear, step-by-step approach to navigate the application process and take the first leap towards your rewarding teaching career.
Step 1: Secure Your Spot with Advanced Tuition Deposit/Registration
The first crucial step in joining the Shenandoah University Career Switcher Program is to register and pay a non-refundable $100 registration fee. Given the program’s popularity and limited availability of slots each semester, this deposit is essential to reserve your place in the upcoming Career Switcher class. Consider this fee as your investment in securing a future in education, as it will be directly applied towards your total tuition. The remaining balance will be due at the time of formal registration.
This initial step underscores your commitment and grants you access to further application stages, ensuring you’re one step closer to transforming your professional trajectory.
Step 2: Complete and Submit Your Program Application
Following your deposit, the next key action is to complete the formal Career Switcher Program Application Form. This document gathers essential information about your background, qualifications, and aspirations in teaching. Ensure you fill out all sections accurately and thoroughly. Once completed, mail the application to the address provided to officially begin your candidacy:
Shenandoah University
Extended and Distance Education
1460 University Drive
Winchester, VA 22601
Submitting these initial two components – the deposit and the application form – is sufficient to secure your spot and initiate the formal review process. Shenandoah University understands that gathering all required documents takes time and encourages you to send supplementary materials as they become available.
Step 3: Prepare For and Schedule Your PRAXIS Subject Assessment
A fundamental requirement for entry into the Career Switcher Program is the PRAXIS Subject Assessment. This exam evaluates your content knowledge in the specific subject area you intend to teach and is a critical component of the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) certification process. It’s imperative to schedule this exam as early as possible due to scheduling constraints and potential test date limitations.
To identify the appropriate PRAXIS Subject Assessment test codes recognized by VDOE, consult the PRAXIS SUBJECT ASSESSMENT TEST CODES document. Note that only one passing score is required for program admission, even if you aim for multiple endorsements.
For comprehensive details about the Praxis exams, including registration, test preparation materials, and understanding the test format, visit the ETS’ WEBSITE. Specifically, the PRAXIS Subject Assessment Test Preparation section offers targeted resources for your chosen subject area. Plan ahead by checking the PRAXIS SUBJECT ASSESSMENT TEST DATES AND LOCATIONS to align with your application timeline, keeping in mind that results typically take about four weeks to process and should be forwarded to the Office of Extended and Distance Education.
Step 4: Submit Remaining Required Documents
As you progress through the application stages and receive them, ensure you submit the remaining essential documents to the Office of Extended and Distance Education. These include official, sealed transcripts from all colleges and universities you have attended, your official PRAXIS Subject Assessment scores, and a current resume highlighting your professional experience. These documents, along with your initial deposit and application, complete your application package.
Approximately six weeks before the upcoming Fall or Spring session begins, the program coordinator will contact you via email to update you on your application status. The Office of Extended and Distance Education will formally notify you by email once you have fully met the qualifications for the Career Switcher program. It’s critical to ensure all application materials, including final tuition payment, are submitted to the office around three weeks prior to the program’s commencement. Exact deadlines will be communicated in your registration materials.
State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement (SARA)
Shenandoah University’s commitment to accessible education is further demonstrated through its membership in NC-SARA (National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements). This is particularly beneficial for out-of-state students enrolling in licensure-leading programs. Prospective students from outside Virginia should view the licensure requirements to understand any state-specific criteria. These requirements are subject to change, so always confirm the latest information with the program directly.
For any questions regarding the Career Switcher program, you are encouraged to reach out via email at cseduc@su.edu.
“This is a phenomenal program with phenomenal instructors. The past four months have been exciting, challenging and rewarding. Anyone who wants to teach should seriously consider the career switchers program through Shenandoah University. The program personnel have been friendly, efficient, and helpful from start to finish.” – Cheryl L.
“This program not only allowed me to become a teacher but gave me an entirely new perspective on teaching. The work, though consuming and intense, was equally rewarding. I felt honored to have been in this program which allowed me to experience the joys of teaching. I look forward to many more hours in the classroom.” – Robin P.
