As someone considering becoming a teacher or administrator you understand the importance of education and the role it plays in a student’s life.  The University of South Florida, College of Education encourages graduates to make a personal commitment of excellence to both their students and the profession. It’s why we seek out students with genuine passions for learning. Then, we empower them with remarkable resources: highly respected veteran teachers, real-world teaching opportunities, and collaboration with fellow students who share the same passion.  Earning a degree from USF’s College of Education provides the essential knowledge and in-demand skills needed for today’s most demanding and diverse classrooms.

USF COE Part-time Programs

For students who are balancing the responsibilities of work and family life, the USF College of Education- Tampa offers part-time programs that lead to teacher certification in either Elementary Education or Special Education. Courses and field placements are flexible and offered at locations in Pasco County.  Students will graduate with the competencies to become a world- class teacher. For more information about part-time programs visit the USF website.

Part-time Program Highlights

  • Three years to complete
  • Blended Coursework: face-to-face/online
  • Face-to-face courses are offered at locations in Pasco County
  • Flexible field placements in Pasco County schools
  • Teacher and Faculty mentors
  • Cohort Model
  • Encourages teaching that is innovative, integrated and inquiry based

Elementary Education

Our Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education Program prepares you to enter the classroom as an effective, enthusiastic and responsible teacher. Our graduates are eligible for certification by the state of Florida to teach in Elementary Education (Grades K-6) and enter the workforce with an ESOL endorsement, giving them a distinct advantage over candidates with Elementary Education certification only.

Special Education

Our Bachelor of Science in Exceptional Student Education (ESE) prepares you to give individualized educational support to students who have diverse learning needs. Our graduates are eligible for certification by the state of Florida to teach students with disabilities in grades K-12 and enter the workforce with both ESOL and Reading Endorsements, giving them a distinct advantage over candidates with ESE certification only.

Special Education is designated as a “critical need” subject area, meaning you could be eligible for student loan forgiveness 
if you teach in this area.

Admissions Requirements

  • Admitted to USF
  • 2.5 or higher GPA
  • Completed pre-requisite coursework
  • Successful completion of General Knowledge Test

Advising and Admission Information

Student Academic Services, College of Education, EDU 106
Phone: 813-974-2979
Additional information, to schedule an advising session, or to obtain an application, visit the USF Website.

Tuition Support

There are a number of federal grant, loan, and repayment programs available to help you finance your education. But what you may not know is that the government offers additional aid for students who want to become teachers. Follow the links to find detailed information about how to qualify and apply.

www.usf.edu/financial-aid
www.coedu.usf.edu/main/sas/scholarships
https://studentaid.ed.gov/sa/types/grants-scholarships/teach