Nov 07, 2024  
2024-2025 CNM Catalog, Volume 56 
    
2024-2025 CNM Catalog, Volume 56

Alternative Teacher Licensure (Post Degree Certificate of Completion), Elementary Education Concentration


School of Education (ED)

CNM offers a state-accredited teacher licensure program based on national InTASC standards for teacher preparation and the New Mexico state framework for teacher education.  CNM offers Alternative Teacher Licensure  with certificates in, Early Childhood Education , Elementary Education, Secondary Education , and Special Education . Students are able to complete licensure pathways in multiple areas and all students are encouraged to complete dual licensure in special education.

For students currently in the Alternative Teacher Licensure Program or licensed teachers, CNM offers coursework that can be applied to endorsements in Gifted Education, Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) and Bilingual Education. https://www.cnm.edu/programs-of-study/programs-a-z/alternative-teacher-licensure/endorsement-coursework

See Recommended Sequence of Courses

Special Requirements

Students must complete a separate application process for the Alternative Teacher Licensure Program. 

Application requirements include: 

  • Submission of official transcript to CNM Records Office confirming bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution 
  • GPA of 3.0 on highest degree earned (or passing score on appropriate Praxis Subject Exam) 
  • Ability to pass a Criminal Background Check 

Approximate Costs of this Educational Option

Financial Aid Considerations

Employment Information

Upon successful admission to the Alternative Licensure Program candidates are eligible to apply for an Alternative Level I Teaching License from the NM Public Education Department. 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 $41,000. Within seven years, teachers can earn a base salary of $60,000. 

Gainful Employment information is available from Job Connection Services.

Ten Year Rule for CTE Courses

Career and technical education courses in this program will qualify for credit for a period of ten academic years. Due to changing technologies, trends, and professional demands, courses completed ten or more years in the past will satisfy program requirements only if they are approved by the instructional school in which they were offered. Cohorted programs may have additional restrictions.

Program Requirements


 

  • All program teacher candidates must complete a comprehensive portfolio documenting proficiency in key competency areas in order to complete the program and be recommended for licensure.

Minimum Credit Hours Required to Complete Certificate: 21