Do you have a favorite teacher who really inspired and encouraged you to work harder and learn more? You could provide that type of motivation for others! If you are enthusiastic about learning and passionate about making a difference in the lives of students, education may be a very good path for you.
What makes the University of Colorado Denver Urban Community Teacher Education experience unique? Our program is nationally recognized for having one of the most innovative, collaborative teacher preparation models where top faculty work side by side with experienced K-12 partner educators to prepare you to have a profound impact on the lives of students in our most urban and diverse schools. You will "live the life of a teacher" as you quickly become a vital member of the teaching staff at one of our metro area urban professional development schools as a teacher candidate intern while you simultaneously take university classes. In fact, our candidates enter their first year of teaching with the knowledge, skills, and confidence of 2nd and 3rd year teachers!
You will be able to complete courses for your bachelor's degree and teaching licensure in four years. You will complete your general education and major requirements your first three years with opportunities to explore teaching through early hands-on experiences with students in public schools, student clubs and many others. The last year of your degree you will concentrate on the teacher education courses that are closely connected to your internship experiences in one of our award-winning professional development schools.
Students in the program apply for admission to one of seven specific concentration areas:
While these concentrations all share common elements, they each have distinguishing characteristics and options that reflect your interests as a student and the type of teacher you'd like to become.
It's essential to indicate your interest in the Urban Community Teacher Education program as early as possible in your undergraduate studies. Please contact the undergraduate teacher education advisor to start planning your academic path through the program. Because the Undergraduate Urban Community Teacher Education program is a joint effort between the School of Education & Human Development and the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, you'll visit with the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences advisor in the North Classroom building.