Judson sets up certification program

Judson University's School of Education is gearing up to offer its Certification Only program beginning in January at the University's Rockford campus. An informational meeting will be held at 6 p.m. Monday, Oct. 20, at the Rockford location.

The Certification Program is designed to help those who already have a bachelors degree earn certification for teaching Elementary Education (grades K-9) and Secondary Education (grades 6-12) by completing evening courses and a series of in-school practicum experiences and student teaching. Both programs are completed in two years and candidates who join the January class and successfully satisfy all other requirements of the program will receive a program discount of $2,500 for elementary education and $3,500 for secondary education applied during the final student teaching semester.

"Judson University's Certificate Only program is an outstanding way to become a teacher," said Carrie Mianulli, who will complete requirements for certification in K-12 Visual Arts this December. The small classes allow for individual and personalized attention. The teachers and staff are very professional and make you feel that they are there for you."

Candidates seeking a secondary education certification should have earned bachelors degrees in the following coursework similar to Judson's academic programs of Business, Marketing and Computer Education; English; Mathematics; Science/biology, chemistry, environmental science; Social Science/History and psychology; or Visual Art.

"For me, the Judson Certification Program bridges the gap between my work experience and being able to effectively teach that discipline. It is the difference between knowing a subject area and being able to teach it to high school students," said Dawn Karlovsky, who is currently working toward certification in secondary education with an emphasis in business, marketing and computer education. "After looking at several programs, I felt Judson's Certification Only Program was the most comprehensive and cost effective way to change careers and prepare me for that change."

The October information session will be held at 1055 Featherstone Drive, Suite A, Rockford. A minimum number of students will be required for the launching of this "Certification Only" program. A comparable program in Elgin will have classes beginning in early May 2009. Those with an interest are urged to contact Keith Drew at (847) 628-1082 or kdrew@JudsonU.edu to obtain additional information.