Are you contemplating a career change and feel a calling to education? The Career Switcher Program at Shenandoah University offers a streamlined pathway for professionals like you to transition into a fulfilling teaching career. This comprehensive program is designed to equip you with the necessary skills and credentials to excel in the classroom. To help you embark on this exciting journey, we’ve created a step-by-step guide to applying for the Career Switcher Program.
Step-by-Step Guidelines to Apply for the Career Switcher Program
Step 1: Advanced Tuition Deposit/Registration
To secure your spot in the upcoming Career Switcher class, submitting an advanced tuition deposit is your first step. A non-refundable registration fee of $100 is required with your Career Switcher application. Given the limited availability of slots each semester, this deposit is crucial to reserve your position in the program. Importantly, this deposit is not an additional cost but is directly applied towards your Career Switcher tuition, with the remaining balance due upon registration.
Step 2: Complete and Submit Your Application
The next key step is to complete and mail the Career Switcher Program Application Form. You can access and download the application form through the link provided below. Once completed, please mail the application to the following address:
Shenandoah University
Extended and Distance Education
1460 University Drive
Winchester, VA 22601
It’s important to note that initially, only the application form and the tuition deposit are required to reserve your place in the program. While these are the only two essential documents to begin with, you are welcome to send in additional required documents as you gather them to expedite your application process.
Career Switcher Program Application Form
Step 3: Prepare For and Schedule a PRAXIS Subject Assessment
Preparing for and scheduling your PRAXIS Subject Assessment should be a priority. These exams are a mandatory requirement for program entry and scheduling can take time, so early preparation is advisable. The PRAXIS Subject Assessment is designed to evaluate your knowledge in the specific subject area(s) you intend to teach.
To identify the appropriate PRAXIS Subject Assessment test codes recognized by the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE), please refer to the document linked below. For entry into our program, only a single passing PRAXIS Subject Assessment score is necessary, even if you aim for multiple endorsements.
For general information about the Praxis Subject Assessment Exams, the ETS website is a valuable resource. For detailed information about individual tests and preparation materials, ETS also offers a dedicated section on their website.
Most PRAXIS Subject Assessment tests are conducted at central locations on Saturdays. Planning ahead is crucial as registration deadlines exist, and late registration fees can be significant. Check the ETS website for the most current scheduled PRAXIS Subject Assessment test dates and locations. After taking the test, allow at least four weeks to receive your results, which should be forwarded to the Office of Extended and Distance Education via email.
PRAXIS SUBJECT ASSESSMENT TEST CODES
PRAXIS Subject Assessment Test Preparation
PRAXIS SUBJECT ASSESSMENT TEST DATES AND LOCATIONS
Step 4: Submit Remaining Required Documents
As you acquire them, please submit the remaining required documents to the Office of Extended and Distance Education. These documents include official, sealed transcripts from all colleges or universities you have attended, your official PRAXIS test scores, and a current resume. These are in addition to your advanced tuition deposit and application form submitted in the initial steps.
Approximately six weeks before the scheduled start date of the upcoming session (Fall or Spring), the Program Coordinator will email you an update regarding your application status. The Office of Extended and Distance Education will notify you via email once you are fully qualified for the Career Switcher program. It’s important to ensure that all application materials and your final tuition payment are submitted to the Office of Extended and Distance Education about three (3) weeks prior to the program’s commencement. The exact deadline will be communicated to students in the registration materials.
State Reciprocity – SARA
Shenandoah University’s participation in NC-SARA (National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements) expands opportunities for out-of-state students enrolling in programs leading to licensure. For out-of-state students interested in the Career Switcher Program, it’s advisable to review the licensure requirements linked below. Please note that these requirements are subject to change, and it’s recommended to contact the program directly with any questions.
View the licensure requirements
Email Us
For any questions or further information regarding the Career Switcher program, please do not hesitate to contact us at [email protected].
“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.
Embark on your journey to a rewarding teaching career with Shenandoah University’s Career Switcher Program. Apply today and take the first step towards making a difference in education!
