The Accelerated Certification for Teachers program is dedicated to high standards that are reflected in the admissions and course requirements. The ACT program has a rolling admissions process, and applications and accompanying paperwork will be submitted to the Director of Admission for review.

Admissions Requirements

You may receive admission to the Carthage ACT/M.Ed. program by providing the following:

Individuals who have failed a teacher preparation program are not eligible for Accelerated Certification for Teachers.

Students accepted into the program who fail to demonstrate appropriate dispositions for the field of education, such as through excessive absences or nonparticipation, may face academic suspension by the program director.

Eligibility

To participate in the ACT/MED Program at Carthage, you must:

  • Hold a bachelor’s or advanced degree from an accredited institution in the appropriate teaching content area. A 2.75 cumulative GPA is required for all college coursework completed. This will be evaluated on a case-by-case situation.
  • Be currently employed (or will be employed) by a public or private middle or high school.
  • Complete the entire ACT/MED program unless you already hold a master’s degree and seek only to obtain teacher licensure. Without a master’s, candidates obtain a teacher license and participate in an accelerated cohort MED program in 1.5 years with the Comprehensive Exam option or 2 years with the Capstone Thesis option.

Individuals who have failed a teacher preparation program are not eligible for the ACT/MED Program.

PRAXIS I AND II EXAMS

  • Students are no longer required to take Praxis I.
  • Student candidates with a grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 or higher in their area of certification are waived from taking Praxis II.
  • The Praxis II is not needed for a teaching license in Spanish, French, or German. The candidate must pass an oral and written proficiency exam set up through the Modern Languages Department at Carthage. Please contact the Office of Admissions for more information.