The MAE does not offer certification in these areas; however, many of our students earn multiple certifications. Missouri's State Department of Education allows teachers who hold a certificate to take the PRAXIS test in any certification areas. If you pass the test, you can be certified to teach in those areas. therefore, many of our students have double majors as undergraduates or multiple minors giving them necessary content knowledge.

4. Can I get certified to teach health?

No, Truman does not offer a health teaching certification program.

5. I want to go to Truman, but I want to teach outside of Missouri, how do I get certified for different states?

We have reciprocity with Illiinois, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Nebraska, Oklahoma, South Dakota and Wisconsin. Certification in other states is quite reasonable. We would ask that you meet with our Certification Analyst for that. Currently we have certified MAE graduates teaching in 49 states and several countries.

6. How long does it take to complete the MAE degree?

Once you acquire an undergraduate degree and are accepted into the MAE, it usually takes a minimum of one full academic year including summer. However, depending on factors such as the length of the internship chosen, it could take longer. Students who complete undergraduate degrees ahead of schedule often complete our program quicker.

7. I can't find __________ (name, address, title, etc.) when filling out registration forms for Exploratory Field Experiences. Is that alright?

No. You need to fill the forms out completely.

8. Can I still register for Exploratory Field Experiences after the deadline?

No. They must be turned in by the deadline.

9. Can I get certified to teach middle school?

Middle school certification, although not a program, may be obtained by taking the PRAXIS. There are two recommended courses to take prior to taking the PRAXIS—ED 500G Adolescent Psychology and ED 672 Middle School Philosophy, Organization, and Curriculum.

10. How difficult is it to get into the MAE program?

Because admission criteria are clear and faculty are available to advise students about requirements, our admission rate is very high.

11. Won't holding a master's degree put me at a disadvantage when competing for jobs against teachers holding a bachelor's degree?

No, we haven't found that to be true. Holding a master's degree makes you highly qualified and gives you more earning potential during your career.

12. Will school districts pay those who hold a master's degree more than those who hold a bachelor's degree?

Yes. Depending on the school district and its financial resources, this "premium" may range from a few hundred to $5000. Not only does this make a difference in the size of a monthly paycheck, but over a teaching career this difference in beginning pay adds up and significantly affect retirement income.

13.When is my research/digital portfolio due?

The dates for 2009 submission of research/digital portfolios are as follows:

May 2009---------Due Date is April 30, 2009

August 2009-------Due Date is July 30, 2009

December 2009----Due Date is November 30, 2009