Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions. If you don’t find the information you are seeking here, please call us at (206) 296-5774 or send an email to coeadmissions@seattleu.edu.

How do I get my initial teaching certification?

At Seattle University you can earn your initial certification through the Master in Teaching Program (MIT), also known as the Teacher Education Program. The MIT program takes four quarters (one year) to complete and is structured for full-time students.

If you are a high school or community college student and want to teach elementary education, you can pursue the Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Liberal Studies with a K-8 Specialization or the Humanities for Teaching with a Specialization in Elementary Education.

If you are working as a paraeducator, Seattle University offers Alternate Routes 1, 2, and 4.

Do I have to take examinations like the Graduate Record Exam (GRE)?

To prepare for admission, please check the requirements for each program. Some programs require test scores while others do not.

What other K-12 options can I pursue?

If you are interested in teaching in specialized areas or providing professional staff services, or administration we have a variety of options:

  • Special Education – Master's or Educational Specialist degree and/or an endorsement in Special Education
  • Educational Administration – Master's degree or Post-Master's certificate for Principals or Program Administrators
  • Educating Non-Native English Speakers - Master's degree
  • School Psychology – Educational Specialist degree
  • School Counseling – Master's degree

What options can I pursue outside the K-12 System?

If you are interested in teaching or administrating educational programs for adult learners in business or not-for-profit organizations such as health care or the arts, you are in the right place.  Our programs are designed to meet the needs of a wide variety of education-oriented pursuits.

We suggest that you explore:

  • Adult Education and Training - Master's degree in adult training and development for adult basic education
  • Clinical Mental Health Counseling - Master's degree in mental health counseling, post-secondary, and others
  • Community College Teaching - Post-Master's certificate
  • Doctorate in Education Leadership (EdD) - Not just for the education sector but for anyone who is focused on leading and learning in organizations.
  • Student Development Administration - Master's degree in students affairs and student life in higher education.

I want to get a master's degree, but I don't know which program is right for me. What should I do?

We invite you to contact the College of Education at (206) 296-5774 to discuss your interests and goals, as well as attend a program information session or explore the Graduate Viewbook. We're here to help!