
Alternative Teacher Certification
Pursue your dream of becoming a teacher with the route that suits you best. The Alternative Teacher Certification allows you to transition from your current field of interest to K-12 teaching.
Become a Teacher on Your Schedule
The online Alternative Teacher Certification graduate certificate provides a pathway to teaching certification outside of traditional teacher education programs. If you have a bachelor’s degree in a non-education field, you can transition to K-12 teaching by receiving a valid Alternative Preliminary Certificate and an offer of employment from a public or Department of Education-accredited school. In addition to the certificate, you will need to pass the appropriate state-designated pedagogy test, adhere to the SD Code of Professional Ethics for Teachers and receive sign-off from the employing school/district.
Pursue your dream and transition to teaching with an Alternative Teacher Certification from USD.
Degrees & Offerings
Alternative Teacher Certification
CertificateThis graduate certificate in Alternative Teacher Certification is an online stand-alone credential that is designed to meet the state of South Dakota’s requirements for alternative certification for teaching licensure. Certification requires 15 transcripted credits covering topics in classroom management, teaching methods, student assessment, differentiated instruction, adolescent psychology and South Dakota Indian studies.
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Departments & Facilities

Teacher Residency & Education
The Division of Teacher Residency & Education is focused on preparing effective, responsive teachers who can meet the needs of all students in today's schools. Through unique features such as a robust yearlong residency, an emphasis on technology and curriculum that recognizes a variety of learners, our division offers an enriching education for educators and leaders.
Faculty & staff

Take Your Classes Online
Surprisingly Affordable
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GA (Resident*)
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Online
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Non-Resident
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Tuition (1 cr.)
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180.3
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340.15
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470.45
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654.05
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GAF Fee (1 cr.)
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55.3
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55.3
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0
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55.3
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Total
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More About Tuition & Fees
Tuition rates are subject to change and may vary depending on the program or department. Visit the Graduate Tuition & Costs page for more information.
* Graduate Assistant (GA) rates are available for resident, non-resident and online students.