The Advanced Teaching/Curriculum Certificate program (ATCC) meets the needs of in-service teachers in a variety of educational settings who seek advanced knowledge beyond that required for initial teacher certification in the areas of effective instruction, curriculum and assessment.

Upon completion of the ATCC, candidates will possess knowledge of the many facets of education.

• In-depth understanding of varying educational organizations and sectors
• Expertise in developing, analyzing, implementing and evaluating instructional strategies
• Ability to exhibit leadership
• Organizational, cross cultural, interpersonal, advocacy, and communication skills

In addition, the ATCC program will provide candidates opportunities to explore a variety of other roles in an educational setting including:

• Instructional leaders both in and beyond the classroom
• Researchers in local, state, national, or international organizations
• Professionals in foundations, associations, corporations, and private education institutions

Curriculum

EDUC 530: Advanced Techniques in Instruction and Assessment (3 credits)
This course provides the candidate with opportunities to explore major professional and educational issues associated with teaching, curriculum and curricular resources and assessment. The course also provides multiple opportunities to develop and enhance teaching skills, as well as exposure to alternative assessments.

EDUC 533: Virtual Learning Communities (3 credits)
This course examines the impact of distance learning and multimedia technologies on the educational systems of teachers, administrators, librarians, and other professionals in schools responsibilities for technology and professional development. Online discussion groups, video conferencing, and Web-based instruction will be used to form a virtual learning community.

EDUC 537: Learning Disabilities II (3 credits)
This course takes a more in-depth view of how the in-service teacher utilizes research-based skills and strategies to manage instruction for students with special needs in the inclusive classroom. Candidates will explore curricular, environmental, and instructional adaptations in addressing learning and behavioral needs. Collaboration, co-teaching, differentiated instructional delivery models, universal design for learning, and practical / philosophical approaches to inclusion are explored.

EDUC 608: The Intercultural Learner (3 credits)
This course explores the changing demographics of the K-12 student population. Candidates will further explore the needs, experiences, values, and beliefs of culturally and linguistically diverse learners, their families and communities. Building home/school relations and adapting and supporting curriculum through school services will be a focus. For a practicum, participants will engage in a case study of an English language learner.

EDUC 714: Instructional and Curricular Leadership (3 credits)
This course allows the candidate to consider the relationship between school culture and classroom instruction. Candidates will study the five fundamental tasks of instructional leadership (direct assistance, group development, professional development, curriculum development, and action research). Candidates will also investigate effective classroom observation methods.

EDUC: 813: Educational Issues Seminar (3 credits)
This course provides candidates with opportunities to explore current issues in public education, including school community, staff relations, integrating educational innovation, negotiating the bureaucracy, public charter schools, and urban education.

Admissions criteria and tuition rate are the same as the Master of Science in Teaching, Learning and Curriculum: Advanced Teaching Track.

Completion of the certificate requires 18 credits (6 courses) beyond the bachelor’s degree and offers a strong foundation for the Master of Science in Teaching, Learning, and Curriculum: Advanced Teaching Track.