FAQ

• Why should I become a teacher?

  Teaching is a stable profession with great benefits. There are numerous opportunities for personal and professional growth in the field of education. Most important, teachers have the opportunity to make a difference and change the lives of students with whom they work.

• Why should I come to George Mason to become a teacher?

  We have a personal approach in which you will never feel like a number. Our undergraduate academic advisor will work with you to ensure that you have all the information you need to make the best decisions regarding your coursework and preparation for teacher licensure.

• What is teacher licensure?

  Teachers in public schools and many independent schools must hold a Virginia license. A student who successfully completes one of our state-approved teacher preparation program will be recommended for teacher licensure.

• Do I have to complete a bachelor's degree to be recommended for teacher licensure?

  At the minimum, you must have a bachelor's degree.

• Do I have to pass any tests to be admitted to a licensure program at Mason?

  You must have passing scores on the Praxis I in order to be admitted to a teacher licensure program at Mason. The Praxis I is a basic skills test which examines math, reading, and writing competency. With high enough SAT or ACT scores, the Praxis I can be waived.

• What tests are required for licensure?

  To be licensed in Va, you must also pass the VCLA (Virginia Communication and Literacy Exam). You must also pass the Praxis II, an exam which will test you on your competency in your subject area. If you are teaching Special Education or Elementary Education, you must also pass the VRA (Va Reading Assessment)

• Will my Virginia teacher's license transfer to other states?

  Virginia has an Interstate AGreement with 44 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and Guam.

• Which programs make it possible for me to earn my bachelor's degree and be recommended for licensure in four years?

  With very careful planning, you could earn your bachelor's degree and a recommendation for licensure in Chemistry, 6-12; Dance, PK-12; English, 6-12; Music, PK-12; Physical education, 6-12; or Physics, 6-12.

• Can I study special education at Mason?

  At the undergraduate level, we offer special education minors that meet approximately half of the licensure requirements mandated by the state of Virginia. Those minors include Assistive Technology, Mild Disabilities, and Severe Disabilities.

• Is there another minor that you can recommend?

  Education Studies is an 18-credit minor that we highly recommend. While it will not lead directly to licensure, it will give you a wonderful foundation in the field of education.

• How do I become an elementary teacher?

  Select almost any major in which you are interested. Many of our students choose interdisciplinary studies, English, mathematics, history, a science, psychology, or sociology. Our undergraduate admissions advisor would be happy to meet with you about the selection of your major. A minor in Education Studies will give you a strong foundation of knowledge about the field of education. In the final semester of your bachelor's degree program you will apply and be admitted to the Elementary graduate licensure program. Some students who meet very specific criteria may be eligible to begin the licensure program before graduating with a bachelor's degree.

• How do I become a secondary teacher?

  Major in the subject area in which you plan to teach. A minor in Education Studies will give you a strong foundation of knowledge about the field of education. Apply and be admitted to the Secondary graduate licensure program. Some students who meet very specific criteria may be eligible to begin the licensure program before graduating with a bachelor's degree.

• What else can I do to become an attractive candidate for a teacher licensure program?

  Keep that GPA high! We are looking for students with a GPA of 3.0. Get experience working with students. Substitute teaching, camp counseling, and daycare are excellent ways to get this experience.