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Foundations of Teacher Education

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Degree Type
60-credit Associate of Applied Science Degree

Program Code
10-522-2

Time to Degree
2 years

Start Date
August / January / June

How You'll Learn

  • Online
  • Hybrid
  • 8-Week Courses
  • Evening

Those working with elementary/middle school students understand the complex educational issues involving children. In this program, acquire skills to help students learn by providing individualized instruction under the supervision of a licensed teacher. Provide support with reading, writing, math and science; develop strategies to guide young children’s behavior; and gain skills to work with children with special needs.

Please note: A physical examination and caregiver background check is required prior to a field placement internship course.

How To Apply

  • Apply online and pay the $30 application fee.
  • Submit a copy of one of the following to demonstrate your reading, writing and math skills:
    • High school GPA of 2.60 or above. Transcript must include completed coursework through the 11th grade.*
    • ACT, ACCUPLACER® or GED - 2014 Series (165 or higher).*
    • Prior college coursework may meet this requirement in whole or in part. Courses must be in the specific area(s), and you must have earned a grade of C or better (2.0 on a 4.0 scale) in the courses.*
    • If none of the above apply, sign up for the ACCUPLACER® placement test.

*Unofficial copies of these documents can be sent to admissions@wctc.edu.

Licensed, working paraeducators only: Submit a copy of your Special Education Program Aide License or General Education Paraeducator Verification.

Questions on the application process? Visit the Admissions page or contact an enrollment counselor.

Apply Online

Program Details

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Contact Us

Questions? We'd love to help! Connect with our Enrollment team by filling out our online form or by email at enroll@wctc.edu.

Potential Careers

Those working as para-educators enjoy working with students and providing support to classroom teachers. If you like being around school-age children and are compassionate to their needs, can take direction from lead teachers and members of the educational team, and are patient, a job as a para-educator might be for you.

  • Paraeducator
  • Instructional Assistant
  • Special Education Para-professional
  • Early Education Teacher
  • Teacher Assistant
High School Eligibility

This program is open to qualified high school applicants. Learn more >

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Career Salaries

$27,000 – $37,300 annually

Salary range estimates based on wages for related occupations in Waukesha County as reported by Economic Modeling Specialists International (EMSI). Individual wages may vary based on experience, industry, location and specific job requirements.

Check the WCTC Graduate Success Report to view our graduates’ entry wages.

Financial Aid

As a program student, you are eligible to receive:

  • Financial aid loans
  • Scholarships
  • Other forms of assistance

Learn more about financial aid.

Program Courses

Education and Human Services Programs

Career Pathway

What Makes This Program Unique

  1. Practice learned skills in K-12 settings throughout the program. Area public school sites provide practicum experience in the third and fourth semesters.
  2. Upon completion, graduates are eligible to apply for a Short Term Substitute Teacher License and begin instruction as a substitute teacher in the classroom.
  3. Work as a paraeducator in pre-K through grade 12 settings, or take your career a step further to earn a bachelor's degree and become a licensed teacher.

Students working together at desk

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Earn credit for prior learning for the college-level knowledge and skills that you've already acquired through advanced high school classes, previous college coursework, self-study, military training work or volunteer experience.

More Credit Opportunities

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Dual enrollment offers high school students an opportunity to get a head start in high-demand fields while earning college credits.

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Credit for Prior Learning

You may have the opportunity to obtain credit for the college-level skills and knowledge you've already acquired through prior coursework, work experience and more.

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Transfer Opportunities After WCTC

WCTC has credit transfer agreements with many four-year institutions that allow our degree graduates to transfer credits into a baccalaureate program, often at junior-level standing.

Explore Transfer Agreements