Switching careers can be a daunting yet incredibly rewarding endeavor, especially when transitioning into the fulfilling field of education. For professionals considering a career change to teaching in Virginia, the Shenandoah University Career Switcher Program stands out as a prominent option. But a crucial question arises for prospective applicants: Is The Shenandoah Career Switcher Program Teaching Good? This guide delves into the program, exploring its quality and providing a step-by-step walkthrough of the application process to help you decide if it’s the right path for your career transition.
Program Overview – Is it a Quality Program for Career Switchers?
The Shenandoah University Career Switcher Program is designed for individuals holding a bachelor’s degree who wish to become licensed teachers in Virginia. It offers an accelerated route to the classroom, catering to those who bring real-world experience and subject matter expertise to the teaching profession. But beyond its structure, the core question remains about the program’s effectiveness in preparing individuals for a successful teaching career.
Based on testimonials from program graduates, the Shenandoah Career Switcher Program is highly regarded for its teaching quality. Cheryl L., a graduate, describes it as a “phenomenal program with phenomenal instructors,” highlighting the engaging and rewarding nature of the four-month experience. Robin P. emphasizes the transformative impact of the program, stating, “This program not only allowed me to become a teacher but gave me an entirely new perspective on teaching.” These testimonials point towards a program that is not only effective in career transitioning but also excels in providing a high-quality educational experience that prepares graduates to thrive in the classroom. The emphasis on dedicated instructors and a rewarding, albeit intense, learning environment suggests a commitment to excellence in teaching future educators.
Step-by-Step Application Process
If you are convinced of the program’s quality and ready to take the next step, here is a detailed guide on how to apply to the Shenandoah Career Switcher Program:
Step 1: Advanced Tuition Deposit/Registration
To begin your application, you need to submit a non-refundable registration fee of $100. This deposit is crucial as it secures your spot in the program, which has limited slots available each semester. This fee will be applied towards your total tuition, with the remaining balance due at the time of registration.
To pay the deposit and complete the online registration, please click on the link below and select the term you wish to apply for:
Step 2: Application
The next step involves completing the Career Switcher Program Application Form. You can download the form by clicking on the link below, fill it out, and mail it to Shenandoah University’s Extended and Distance Education office.
Career Switcher Program Application Form
Mail your completed application form to:
Shenandoah University
Extended and Distance Education
1460 University Drive
Winchester, VA 22601
Submitting the deposit and application form are the initial steps to reserve your place in the program. Additional documents can be submitted later as you acquire them.
Step 3: PRAXIS Subject Assessment
Preparing for and scheduling your PRAXIS Subject Assessment should be done as early as possible. This exam is a mandatory requirement for program entry and scheduling can take time. You should take the PRAXIS Subject Assessment in the specific subject area(s) you intend to teach. This test evaluates your knowledge of the subject matter.
For a comprehensive list of PRAXIS Subject Assessment test codes recognized by the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE), please refer to this document:
PRAXIS SUBJECT ASSESSMENT TEST CODES
A single passing score on the PRAXIS Subject Assessment is sufficient for program entry. Shenandoah University’s Career Switcher Program also accepts students with multiple endorsements.
For general information about the Praxis Subject Assessment Exams, please visit the ETS website:
For specific test preparation materials, review the PRAXIS section of the ETS website:
PRAXIS Subject Assessment Test Preparation
To find scheduled test dates and locations, please check the ETS website:
PRAXIS SUBJECT ASSESSMENT TEST DATES AND LOCATIONS
Remember to plan ahead as registration deadlines apply and late registration fees can be substantial. Allow at least four weeks to receive your test results, which should be forwarded to the Office of Extended and Distance Education via email.
Step 4: Submit Remaining Documents
As you gather the remaining required documents, submit them to the Office of Extended and Distance Education. These documents include official, sealed transcripts from all colleges and universities you have attended, your official PRAXIS test scores, and a resume. These are in addition to your tuition deposit and application form.
Approximately six weeks before the program’s start date (Fall or Spring session), the Coordinator will email you an update on your application status. The Office of Extended and Distance Education will notify you via email once you are fully qualified for the Career Switcher program.
All application materials and the final tuition payment must be submitted to the Office of Extended and Distance Education about three weeks before the program begins. The exact deadline will be provided in your registration materials.
State Reciprocity – SARA
Shenandoah University is a participant in NC-SARA (National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements). This membership may be relevant for out-of-state students seeking licensure through the program.
For out-of-state students enrolling in Shenandoah programs leading to licensure, please view the licensure requirements document:
View the licensure requirements
Note that licensure requirements are subject to change. Contact the program directly with any questions.
Contact and Further Inquiries
For any questions regarding the Career Switcher program, you can reach out to the program via email at [email protected].
Conclusion: Is the Shenandoah Career Switcher Program a Good Choice?
Based on the positive testimonials and comprehensive application process, the Shenandoah Career Switcher Program appears to be a good and effective option for individuals seeking a career transition into teaching. The program’s structured approach, combined with positive feedback regarding its instructors and the overall learning experience, suggests a strong foundation for preparing future educators. If you are seeking a career change and are passionate about education, the Shenandoah University Career Switcher Program is definitely worth considering as a valuable pathway to your new profession.
