Students seeking licensure as elementary and secondary teachers must declare a minor in education/teacher licensure. Typically, candidates for elementary licensure major in psychology, although with careful planning students majoring in the other liberal arts and science disciplines may also complete the licensure program. Candidates for secondary licensure must major in a discipline for which Norwich is approved to grant licensure: English, mathematics, science (biology, chemistry, environmental studies, physics), and social studies (history, international studies, and political science). For both programs, one semester must be reserved exclusively for student teaching and the special education seminar. In some cases, a ninth semester may be required in order to complete a licensure program.

Vermont is a member of the Interstate Certification Project. Graduates of state-approved educator preparation programs may use the Vermont license to apply for an initial regular license/certificate in 47 states. The Norwich program is state-approved and accredited.

Program theme and course work

The Teacher Education Licensure Program reflects a strong belief that significant learning occurs through modeling and reflection. Students are encouraged, through their courses, to reflect upon their learning experiences in order to join theory to practice. Course work in psychology and teaching pedagogy create a strong foundation for professional development. Numerous school-based experiences will allow the students many opportunities to work with various teachers who demonstrate best practices. The Education/Teacher Licensure Program is a well-rounded program that provides teaching pedagogy with numerous opportunities for reflection.

The program consists of the elementary track and the secondary track. Prospective elementary and secondary teachers may major in psychology or in another liberal arts or science discipline. A strong core of education courses will interface with the liberal arts or science major, allowing for a versatile, engaging learning experience.

The “fifth-year” program

For those with degrees in appropriate fields, an opportunity to become a candidate for licensure is provided through a “fifth-year” program. These students are nonmatriculating students and each candidate's course work and experience are evaluated and a program of study is recommended based upon the traditionally approved Teacher Education/Licensure Program.

Typically, for candidates without education or psychology courses, the program takes from one and one-half to two years to complete. Because of course sequencing, a candidate with some of the required courses must commit to a minimum of one year. Candidates must meet the same requirements for licensure as those students enrolled in the regular program.

For more information about NU’s Teacher Education Licensure Program
  • Associate Professor Diane Byrne, PhD
  • Director
  • 158 Harmon Drive
  • Northfield, VT 05663 USA
  • 802-485-2364