Thank you for your interest in Gonzaga's Master of Initial Teaching (MIT) program. This program is designed for students seeking a Master's Degree and initial teacher certification. First and foremost, we seek to prepare exemplary K-12 educators. With this end in mind, Gonzaga University's MIT program emphasizes effective instructional models, scholarly insight into the teaching act, integrated field experiences and a semester-long teaching internship.

Our two-year course of study is based on the premise that a classroom teacher is a decision maker whose primary responsibilities fall into four categories: 1) preparing for instruction, 2) implementing effective instructional strategies, 3) assessing classroom decisions and 4) creating a positive learning environment. We believe our Jesuit mission directs us to prepare educational leaders in a learning community through reflection in action, service, and a commitment to justice.

Gonzaga's program is structured for the adult learner. Course offerings are generally scheduled once a week during evening hours to accommodate the working adult. Depending on your choice of certifications, the first summer's scheduling may require a two-night a week class schedule. Three field experiences of 30 hours each semester will require occasional daytime commitments.

The program utilizes a cohort group structure where entering students proceed through a prescribed sequence of classes together. We recognize the variety of backgrounds and unique goals of our MIT students. The Director of Certification will be happy to meet with you to assess your past academic transcripts. We want to meet your needs as best as possible, given Washington's requirements for certification, as well as national accrediting standards (NCATE). A Gonzaga University teaching certificate will allow you to teach throughout the United States and abroad.

Our second year scheduling will attempt to place you with the same mentor teacher for your third field experience and your student teaching, facilitating a year-long experience at one site. Our past students have often said that actual classroom experiences are their most valuable teachers. We want to integrate the reality of actual classrooms with applicable theoretical content. We hope to provide you with a realistic window into classrooms and a place to discuss, ponder, reflect and act on your changing beliefs about teaching content, managing students, planning lessons and being an effective educator.

Consider letting us serve you in meeting your future educational goals. Enclosed you will find the necessary information on Gonzaga's MIT program. Please feel free to contact us regarding any question you may have.

John Traynor
(509) 313-3632
traynor@gonzaga.edu