FAQ

For information on tuition costs and financing options, please visit the Tuition & Financing page.

The program begins once a year in the summer (typically around July 1), an orientation will be scheduled a few days prior to the official start of the program courses as well.

A GRE score is not required. Faculty consider each application holistically and GPA is just one of several elements; therefore, there is not a minimum requirement.

Washington State requires all certified teachers to complete testing in basic skills, content knowledge and pedagogy.

• Basic Skills – WEST-B Exam or ACT / SAT: Applicants must attempt the WEST-B in reading, writing and math. If you have taken the SAT or ACT in reading, writing and math you may submit those passing scores in place of the WEST-B Exam.
• Content Knowledge – NES or WEST-E: Students must submit passing NES or WEST-E scores in content area of endorsement (elementary, English, history, etc.). Typically the deadline is mid-June, however this year it has been extended to October 1, 2020.
  
  For more information regarding the above exams, please visit the Washington Educator Skills Test website.
  
  
• World Language Endorsement - Required Test: ACTFL written and verbal exam. Required only for applicants of MIT Secondary - World Language (Spanish or French) endorsement.

It is an option as Washington state endorsement requirements are based on content coursework and not on degrees earned. In order to pursue, you will likely need to take classes in the content area in which you want to teach. For more information and guidance, contact the MIT Admissions Specialist.

The list below represents Endorsement areas that are approved for the Gonzaga University Teacher Certification Program:

• Elementary (K-8)
• Music: Choral
• Music: Instrumental
• World Languages: French
• World Languages: Spanish
• English Language Learners (ELL)**
• English Language Arts
• Health/Fitness
• Reading**
• Theatre Arts
• Biology
• Chemistry
• Physics
• Math
• Social Studies

**Not a Stand Alone Endorsement

Yes. All teacher preparation degree programs and elementary, secondary, and advanced certification programs in the School of Education are fully approved by the Washington State Professional Educators Board (PESB) and recognized by the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI).

Our program is recognized as a teacher preparation program in all 50 states.

Washington State also has reciprocity agreements with all 50 states through the Interstate Teacher Assessment and Support Consortium (InTASC).

However, if you earn your Washington State teaching certification and want to teach in another state, you may need to meet other requirements specific to that state, which could include exams or other educational work.

Our program is designed to be in-person and all courses are held on-campus at Gonzaga University in the Rosauer Center for Education.

Jesuits have been educating people since 1540, and Gonzaga's Master's programs continue to offer the opportunity to pursue a degree that strives to educate the whole person: intellectually, spiritually, physically and emotionally. Gonzaga was founded in 1887 and continues to pursue a mission of educating leaders with the capacity for reflective and critical thought.

With a river running right through downtown and four distinct seasons, Washington state's second largest city lives up to its motto: "Near Nature, Near Perfect." Spokane offers abundant green space and easy access to numerous lakes, ski resorts, mountains and bike paths. Along with access to endless outdoor recreational activities, you’ll enjoy big city attractions like shopping and entertainment without the congestion or expense of living in a larger metropolitan area. Gonzaga’s campus is just a short walk to downtown.

You will be assigned a faculty advisor who will work with you throughout the duration of the program to help you meet your academic goals. Our Student Services team is also available to answer your questions and connect you to the resources you need, including:

• Course Scheduling and Program Support
• Foley Library
• IT Help Desk
• Career Center
• Graduate Student Association
• Disability Access
• University Ministry

We are all here to help you succeed.