Are you contemplating a fulfilling career change? Do you aspire to make a real difference in the lives of students within communities like Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) and across Virginia? Shenandoah University’s Career Switcher Program offers a structured and supportive pathway to transition your professional experience into a rewarding teaching career. This program is designed for individuals like you, who bring valuable skills and knowledge from other fields and are ready to inspire the next generation. Here’s your step-by-step guide to applying and embarking on this exciting new chapter.
Step-by-Step Guide to Apply to the Career Switcher Program
Step 1: Secure Your Spot with an Advanced Tuition Deposit
To begin your journey, an advanced tuition deposit and registration are essential. A non-refundable $100 registration fee is required when you submit your Career Switcher application. Due to limited availability in each semester’s program, this deposit secures your place in the upcoming Career Switcher class. Rest assured, this deposit isn’t an extra cost; it will be directly applied towards your Career Switcher tuition. The remaining tuition balance will be due at the time of registration.
Ready to take the first step? Select the term you wish to register for and pay your deposit/registration fee here:
Step 2: Complete and Submit Your Application
The next crucial step is to complete the formal program application. Download and fill out the Career Switcher Program Application Form. Once completed, please mail the application form along with any readily available documents to the following address:
Shenandoah University
Extended and Distance Education
1460 University Drive
Winchester, VA 22601
Submitting your application and the advanced tuition deposit are the initial key actions to reserve your spot in the upcoming program. While these two items are paramount to begin, you can send in other required documents as you gather them.
Step 3: PRAXIS Subject Assessment – Your Key to Program Entry
Preparing for and scheduling your PRAXIS Subject Assessment should be a priority and undertaken as soon as possible. These exams are a mandatory requirement for program admission and scheduling can take time. The PRAXIS Subject Assessment needs to be in the specific subject area(s) you intend to teach, evaluating your content knowledge in that field.
For a comprehensive list of PRAXIS Subject Assessment test codes recognized by the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE), please click: PRAXIS SUBJECT ASSESSMENT TEST CODES. Print this document for your reference. The program requires only one passing PRAXIS Subject Assessment score for entry, and candidates with multiple endorsements are welcomed.
For general information about the Praxis Subject Assessment Exams, visit the ETS’ WEBSITE. For detailed information on individual tests and preparation resources, review the PRAXIS Subject Assessment Test Preparation section of ETS’ website.
Most PRAXIS Subject Assessment tests are administered at central locations on Saturdays. Planning ahead is crucial due to registration deadlines and potential late registration fees. Check the ETS website for the most current scheduled PRAXIS SUBJECT ASSESSMENT TEST DATES AND LOCATIONS. After taking the test, allow approximately four weeks to receive your official results. Ensure these results are forwarded to the Office of Extended and Distance Education via email.
Step 4: Finalize Your Application with Required Documents
As you gather them, submit the remaining required documents to the Office of Extended and Distance Education. These documents include official, sealed transcripts from all colleges and universities you have attended, your official PRAXIS test scores, and a current resume. These are in addition to your advanced tuition deposit and program application form.
Approximately six weeks before the scheduled start of the Fall or Spring session, 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 note that all application materials and your final tuition payment must be submitted to the Office of Extended and Distance Education roughly three (3) weeks prior to the program start date. Enrolled students will receive the exact date in their registration materials.
State Reciprocity – SARA
Shenandoah University is proud to be a member of NC-SARA, the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements. For out-of-state students considering Shenandoah programs that lead to licensure, please view the licensure requirements. Find your program by clicking the relevant tab at the bottom of the screen. Please be aware that these requirements can change, so it’s always best to contact the program directly with any questions.
Questions? Get in Touch
For any inquiries regarding the Career Switcher program, don’t hesitate to email us at cseduc@su.edu.
Real Success Stories
“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 fulfilling teaching career today with Shenandoah University’s Career Switcher Program. Your experience and passion are valuable assets in education, and this program can help you make a successful and impactful transition into the classroom, potentially in districts like FCPS and beyond.
