HELP 2016 - 2018 CNM Catalog, Volume 49 Teacher Education (AA), Elementary Concentration (expires Summer Term, August 6th, 2017) Print Degree Planner | Print-Friendly Page Add to Portfolio

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School of Communication, Humanities & Social Sciences (CHSS)

The Teacher Education associate degree program facilitates an introduction to learning the theory and skills required for working with children in the public school system (K-12). Students will also gain practical experience in the classroom. Students interested in teaching in the early grades (PreK-3rd grade) should also consider the Birth-3rd Grade Teacher concentration in the Early Childhood Multicultural Education Degree. 

See Recommended Sequence of Courses

Special Requirements

• Students must pass a criminal background check prior to beginning their field / practicum experience.
• All courses required for transfer must be taken for a traditional grade of A, B, C, etc.

Approximate Costs of this Educational Option

• Cost of Attendance
• Tuition
• Books
• Program and Course Fees

Financial Aid Considerations

• This is a financial aid eligible program.

• Direct Subsidized Loans: 150 percent rule

Educational Opportunities

The Education Department also offers courses for students who have already earned a bachelor’s degree and want to transition to teaching through the Alternative Teacher Licensure in the following areas:

• Elementary (K-8)
• Secondary (7-12)
• Special Education (K-12)

Students should refer to the Alternative Teacher Licensure for the recommended course sequence for each Alternative Teacher Licensure area.

Career Opportunities

The associate of arts degree enables graduates to serve as educational assistants or substitute teachers within New Mexico public schools. Graduates from the program may transfer to four-year institutions that grant bachelor’s degrees in education.

The Career and Technical Education concentration is specifically articulated for transfer to Eastern New Mexico University’s online bachelor’s degree in Professional Technical Education. The national and state trend in Career and Technical education in high schools has also increased the demand for skilled Career and Technical educators.

Teaching remains a high demand field in New Mexico, especially in the areas of Bilingual Elementary, Secondary (Math or Science), and Special Education. The starting salary for teachers in New Mexico public schools is $34,000. Within 7 years of teaching, teachers can move to a salary of $50,000.