Alternative Pathways to Teacher Certification
Southwestern Oklahoma State University
Who is this for?
- Individuals without a degree can pursue a traditional certification path or work toward a bachelor’s in Learning and Instruction or a master’s in Classroom Teaching.
- Individuals with a non-education bachelor’s degree can pursue alternative certification through the Oklahoma State Department of Education (OSDE).
SWOSU partners with you to develop an individualized educational plan that:
- Maximizes your previously completed college coursework
- Aligns with OSDE certification requirements
- Prepares you for a successful teaching career
These personalized pathways also support emergency- and alternatively-certified educators working toward full certification.
What Can I Earn?
- Micro-credentials
- Undergraduate or graduate-level education credits
- Credits toward a bachelor’s or master’s degree
You’ll take OSDE-approved courses in classroom management, instructional strategies, and pedagogy—tailored to your timeline and goals.
Flexible Course Options
Courses are:
- Online
- Available in 4-, 8-, and 16-week formats
- Taught by experienced educators
How to Get Started
- Apply to SWOSU:
- Choose an Undergraduate or Graduate program based on your goals. You can select “non-degree seeking” if you do not plan to pursue a full degree, but be aware that non-degree seeking students have different financial aid access than degree-seeking students. - Email the following to Dr. Reggy Yount and Dr. Marla Pankratz:
- A brief summary of your professional background
- Your certification or career goals
- Unofficial transcripts of all completed college coursework
Estimated Cost
- Tuition & fees for 6–18 credit hours: $2,000 – $6,000
- Courses can be taken at the undergraduate or graduate level
- Credits may be applied toward a degree program in education
Financial Aid is available for admitted students. Contact SWOSU’s Financial Aid Office
for details.
Students may also qualify for state and federal funding opportunities tied to Oklahoma’s
teacher shortage initiatives.
Final Steps
Once your coursework is complete, email Dr. Reggy Yount to initiate official verification to the Oklahoma State Department of Education.