Missouri Alternative Certification for Teacher Certification

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Why Alternative Certification? 

Our Alternative Certification Program is thoughtfully designed for those eager to foster learning by eliminating the requirement for content area coursework. With the potential to secure a Provisional Certificate, our students can transition directly into teaching roles. And for many, the conventional student teaching phase may not be necessary. 

What You'll Learn 

Through this program, you will transform your passion for education into a profession. Upon completion of the requirements, students are recommended to DESE for their Initial teaching certificate for Missouri.

Program Requirements 

This program is for students who have already earned a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. View the core requirements needed for a Missouri Alternative Certification at Columbia College.

View Core Requirements

ConnectUP! Program, Powered by DEWEY Grant

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Elevate your journey with the Columbia College ConnectUP! program, specifically crafted to empower new teachers and students from regions facing teacher shortages in Missouri.

Program Options

Admission Requirements 


The following Columbia College admissions requirements must be completed before being considered for the Alternative Certification Program: 
  • A baccalaureate degree (3.0 minimum overall GPA) from an accredited college or university. The degree must include general education coursework the Office of the Registrar determines sufficiently meets Columbia College standards. 
  • A passing score on the appropriate Missouri Content Assessment (MoCA). See below for certification areas offered through Columbia College. 
  • Application to the MAT Alternative Certification Program through the Graduate Studies application.  

Financial Aid Requirements 

Post-baccalaureate students submitting the FAFSA must complete the following questions as listed below: 

Question #29: "What will your grade level be?" - Student must answer "5th year/other undergraduate.

Question #30: "What degree or certificate?" - Student must answer "Teaching Credential Program.

Question #47: "Are you a masters or doctorate student?" - Student must answer "No.

Failure to answer the questions as described above will affect the financial aid eligibility for post-baccalaureate students.

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Day Campus - Columbia, MO

because a future built by you is a future built for you.

Too many people have been made to feel that higher education isn’t a place for them— that it is someone else’s dream. But we change all that. With individualized attention and ongoing support, we help you write a new story for the future where you play the starring role.