Alternative Routes to The Bachelor of Applied Science in Teacher Education Program

Alternate Route 1 is intended for employed classified instructional staff with transferrable AA Degrees seeking certification with an endorsement in ELL. To enter the alternative route program, applicants will need five years of experience as a para-educator.

Alternate Route 2 is intended for employed classified instructional staff with Baccalaureate Degrees seeking certification with endorsements in a locally determined shortage area (ELL). To enter the alternative route program, applicants will need five years of experience as a para-educator.

Alternate Route 3 is intended for individuals with Baccalaureate Degrees seeking certification. Priority will be given to those seeking endorsements in a locally determined shortage area (ELL).

Prior to admission into the alternate route BAST Program, route 1 and 2 candidates must:

  1. Submit the required BAST Application materials
  2. Be employed with a district at the time of application
  3. Pass a background check
  4. Complete an interview with program staff
  5. Be recommended by school district personnel
  6. Submit letters of reference to ensure candidates have the dispositions needed for teaching

Prior to admission into the alternate route BAST Program, route 3 candidates must:

  1. Submit the required BAST Application materials
  2. Be employed with a district at the time of application
  3. Pass a background check
  4. Complete an interview with program staff
  5. Provide reference letters from employers (current or previous) that demonstrate successful experience with students or children

Upon entry to the program, alternate route BAS-TE Program, all alternate route candidates must:

  • Achieve passing scores on WEST-B
  • Achieve passing scores on WEST-E (ELL)
  • Achieve passing scores on NES 102 & 103

Alternate Route 3 candidates must participate in the required Summer Teacher Academy at GHC

Alternate Route Candidates have the opportunity for Prior Learning Assessment to award credit for prior learning and experience.  The process begins with an interview with program staff to assess knowledge areas and identify specific courses in the program to be assessed. A list of courses and their outcomes is made, and the candidate must write examples of the outcomes being bet through their prior experience. This goes to the BAST Program faculty for review – who then meets with the candidate to discuss the candidate's ability and outcomes. The faculty indicates pass or not passed on the candidate's text which is returned to the BAST Staff. The candidate and staff then meet to chart their PLA results on their academic plan.