Professional Development Sequence

The Professional Development Sequence (PDS ) is usually the last two to four long semesters of the certification program, though the length of time varies depending on the field of study. During this time, students will spend increasingly longer periods in the community's schools, getting more field experience while finishing the required professional coursework.

Each program has different requirements students must meet before applying to the PDS. Please see the information for your program for a list of prerequisites. Students should also consult with an advisor for help in determining a personal timeline. The PDS is restricted and students must apply and meet certain criteria to be accepted. Application deadlines are March 1 for fall entry and October 1 for spring entry.

Each program is organized into cohorts, or groups of up to 25 students, who will stay together throughout the PDS. A faculty member will act as the coordinator for each cohort. This person will make arrangements with schools for the internship and practicum placements. The final semester practicum in the PDS is called Apprentice Teaching, and requires students to be in school all day. In addition to Apprentice Teaching, students are finishing at least one additional university course in the PDS. This course will be completed one afternoon or evening per week throughout the semester.

During Apprentice Teaching, students will begin to increase their responsibility for teaching as the semester progresses, culminating in what is called Total Teach. During these few weeks, students will be responsible for the entire day of teaching.