Teaching Assistant Certificate

School: Business and Professional Careers
Academic Dept: Education
HEGIS: 5503

Important Note about Program Requirements

The requirements listed below are for students entering into this program from Fall 2020 to Summer 2021. Students who entered the program during a prior semester will find their specific requirements listed in the Catalog under which they entered. Archived Catalogs are accessible through the dropdown menu above.

Certificates Defined

Certificate programs are designed to provide a mix of theory and practical training leading to immediate employment upon completion. People who pursue certificates might have an advanced degree and typically want to learn new skills and acquire knowledge. Others might enroll in a certificate program to “test the waters,” with an eye toward pursuing an associate’s degree. Credits earned now in a credit-bearing certificate will apply later toward an associate’s degree at Westchester Community College. Click to learn more about the differences among the award types.

Program Description

The Teaching Assistant certificate provides an opportunity for teaching assistants and other individuals interested in childhood education to begin their higher education in a gradual and supportive manner and to meet the new state and/or federal requirements. For some individuals, this will be the first step in a process for obtaining a baccalaureate degree and teaching certification.

Program Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this program, a student will:

Articulate pedagogical values rooted in a strengths-based perspective of children and families.
Demonstrate understanding of how to advocate for and partner with children and families of diverse backgrounds.
Demonstrate understanding of education as a mechanism for social change.

Program Requirements

General Education Requirements - 12 Credits

Basic Communication (3 credits)

ENG 101 - Writing and Research

Humanities (3 credits)

ENG 102 - Writing and Literature

Social Sciences (6 credits)

Certificate Requirements - 12 Credits

EDU 101 - Foundations of Elementary Education
EDU 103 - Teaching in Today’s Diverse Classroom
EDU 200 - Special Education: Contemporary Perspectives
EDU 202 - Elementary Education Practicum and Field Study * For Fall 2020 the applied learning component will be offered remotely in collaboration with the Ossining School District.

Minimum Total Credits - 24

Gainful Employment Disclosure

For information about graduation rates, the median debt of students who have completed this program, and other important information please visit Teaching Assistant Certificate - GE Disclosure. For an overview of all gainful employment disclosures at Westchester Community College, visit www.sunywcc.edu/gainfulemployment.

Career Path Opportunities

Are you wondering what careers you can explore with a degree or certificate? Perhaps you are not sure what people do or how much money they make in certain careers that pique your interest? Would you like to know how many jobs are predicted to be available in a particular industry? Or maybe you are unsure whether receiving a degree or certificate would be right for you? Go to https://sunywcc.emsicareercoach.com to explore career paths, their associated job descriptions, salary trends, and jobs trends. Complete a career assessment for additional guidance. Still not sure? Visit www.sunywcc.edu/career for more career resources and contacts.

Getting Started

Are you a prospective Westchester Community College graduate? We look forward to seeing you soon! Apply today, then see the College’s Admissions and Enrollment Checklist.