The Educator Preparation degree is designed to prepare students to transfer to a four-year degree program to fulfill their dream to become K-12 educators or to prepare students to work in the field as paraeducators. Throughout their course of study, students complete field observations in grades K-12, along with common coursework. In their second year, in consultation with their advisor, students choose elective courses in any one of the following areas: math, science, social sciences, English, Humanities, special education and elementary education. Completion of these elective courses will demonstrate the content expertise required to become eligible for licensure once the baccalaureate degree is completed. Students are expected to declare their area of focus prior to the beginning of the second year of the program. This degree also meets the requirements for paraeducators seeking an Associate Degree in fulfillment of national and state guidelines. Students are encouraged to take the Praxis Core exam prior to the completion of their work at Great Bay Community College. Applicants are recommended to meet with their advisor to discuss the many program and career pathways.
- Graduating students will develop an appreciation for the act of reflective practice and recognize the impact of ongoing reflection and professional development to become an effective educator.
- Graduating students will be exposed to our elementary, middle, and secondary school systems while developing an understanding of the importance of meeting the individual needs of all children.
- Graduating students will acquire an understanding of various educational theories and their application to the real-world classroom.
- Graduating students will be exposed to a variety of teaching techniques to be used in today’s classrooms to meet the individual needs of all children.
- Graduating students will utilize technology to enhance their teaching skills.
Technical Standards have been created as a guideline for completion of the Teacher Preparation Program and for success as an educator in a public-school setting. For New Hampshire state licensure as an educator, students are required to pass the Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators, and to undergo a criminal record check and fingerprinting. Individuals are encouraged to contact the New Hampshire Department of Education for further requirement details. Students seeking a career in the field of education should possess strong written and verbal communication skills, enjoy working with children, be able to adapt to a variety of situations, and collaborate effectively with others. Students are encouraged to meet with their advisor to discuss any questions regarding these matters.
In addition to Great Bay transfer credit policies, appropriate education courses will be accepted if taken within a five-year period. Exceptions to this policy, based on professional experience, may be granted at the discretion of the department chair. Proper documentation will be required to initiate this process. In the case of English and math course transfers, it may be recommended that the student take portions of the Accuplacer Placement Test to verify the skill level required to be successful in subsequent classes within the program.
First Year
Fall Semester
Spring Semester
Second Year
Fall Semester
Spring Semester