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Career Switcher program graduates: Pursue the program online at Regent University, Virginia Beach.

Career Switcher Program for Accelerated Teaching License with M.Ed. Option

Upon completing the Level 1 requirements, Regent can help prepare you to compete for careers as a Teacher via the Career Switcher Program in just a few months!

Have you dreamed about becoming a teacher, but feel stuck in your current career path? You’re not alone. Regent’s Career Switcher program graduates come from all types of backgrounds and professions, such as ranking military, pastors, engineers, bankers, and stay-at-home mothers.

Whichever path you choose, you could start changing lives through the power of education. Regent could help prepare you to find success as teacher at the elementary, middle, or high school level through Regent’s Career Switcher program, just like former naval officer and outstanding educator award winner John Pienkowski (’17) and former forensic scientist Breanna Calkins (’16) both did (pictured above).

Online
24
May 6, 2024
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Careers | Courses | Admission | Tuition | FAQ | Master’s

NEW CAREER OPTIONS THROUGH THE CAREER SWITCHER PROGRAM

Potentially enjoy teaching opportunities in public and private schools. Learn to deliver a successful curriculum that meets the educational needs of today’s students.

BE MENTORED FOR 1 YEAR

Gain one-on-one mentorship for one year through Regent University after completing your Career Switcher courses.

PURSUE A TEACHING CAREER ONLINE

Join the only Career Switcher program in Virginia that’s been fully online for the past ten years. This is also the only such program with a Master of Education (M.Ed.) option.

Military Stipends Available

If you are Active Duty or a Veteran be sure to ask about Regent’s limited number of special military stipends – you may well be eligible!

ALIGN YOURSELF WITH EXCELLENCE

Regent has been ranked among Top National Universities by the U.S. News & World Report for four years (2019, 2020, 2022 and 2023). Its programs have also been recognized among the Top 10 Online Graduate Education Programs in Virginia for 11 years in a row by the U.S. News & World Report, 2023. Regent graduates are empowered to make a difference in lives, which has led to 900+ alumni being recognized as Teachers of the Year in Hampton Roads since 2004.

Watch Video: Program Chair Welcome. Dr. Mervyn Wighting invites you to learn how you can become a Career Switcher. Listen to a podcast that provides more details about the program.

JOIN AN ACCREDITED CAREER SWITCHER PROGRAM

The School of Education’s educational leadership and teacher preparation programs and the College of Arts and Science’s interdisciplinary studies program are awarded TEAC accreditation by the Inquiry Brief Commission of the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) for a period of seven years, to 12/31/2023.

The School of Education’s Career Switcher program is awarded recertification by the Virginia Department of Education for a period of seven years, to 2/2/2028.

On completing this Career Switcher program, you can:

  • Assess and evaluate students under the mentorship of a seasoned instructor.
  • Smoothly transition from former career to teaching.
  • Manage a classroom and develop curriculum.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

  • Elementary School Teacher (Pre-K-3; Pre-K-6)
  • Middle School Teacher
  • High School Teacher
$69Thousand
Approximate Mean Annual Wage of Secondary School Teachers, 2022 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Understand the historical, philosophical, and sociological foundations underlying the role, development and organization of public education in the United States. Attention will be given to the legal status of teachers and students, including federal and state laws e.g. SOLs; child abuse regulations. The concept of school as an organization/culture and contemporary issues in education are included. School / family communications and ways of involving families in student learning are explored. Attention will be given to the legal status of teachers and students, including federal and state laws e.g. SOLs; child abuse regulations. The concept of school as an organization/culture and contemporary issues in education e.g. language acquisition, reading across the curriculum, and teaching children whose first language is not English are included. School / family communications and ways of involving families in student learning are explored.
Understand the presuppositions of worldviews and then examine content for evidence of different worldviews. Integrate character principles into the school environment and curriculum. Examine curriculum content and its relationship to cognitive development as a tool for designing instruction to promote higher-level thinking.
Develop an understanding and application of classroom and behavior management techniques. Effective intervention strategies will be presented and practiced. Diverse approaches to classroom management will be presented based on upon behavioral, cognitive, affective, social and ecological theory and practice. Teacher/student relationships are examined together with classroom community building.
Focus on classification and sequencing learning outcomes, and the differentiation of instruction. Review the principles of learning, the application of skills in discipline-specific methodology, communication processes, reading in the content areas, selection and use of resources, including media and technology. Examine the relationships among assessment, instruction, and measuring and documenting individual student progress.
Using the principles of educational measurement, construct and interpret valid assessments using a variety of formats in order to measure student attainment of essential skills in a standards-based environment. Develop the ability to analyze assessment data to make decisions about how to improve instruction and evaluate and improve student performance. Emphasis will be placed on the design of “alternative” and traditional assessment instruments.
A study of the physical, cognitive, cultural, social/emotional, spiritual, and psychological development of children and adolescents with an emphasis on knowing and understanding theories of human development and incorporating children’s individual differences to guide learning experiences.
Topics for the continued transition into teaching of Level II Career Switchers, to include classroom management strategies, diversity in student learning, and data-driven decision making. Course content will be linked to the VDOE requirements for teacher evaluation.
Topics for the continued transition into teaching of Level II Career Switchers, including advanced differentiation of teaching and learning, inclusion and special needs in a regular classroom, addressing the needs of the at-risk learner, and tiered instruction. Course content will be linked to the VDOE requirements for teacher evaluation.
For first-year (Level II) students an official mentor of the School of Education is assigned to assist and act as a resource throughout the semester.
For first-year (Level II) students an official mentor of the School of Education is assigned to assist and act as a resource throughout the semester.

2023-24 Semester Check-In Deadlines

All students are expected to check-in for the semester two weeks before the session start date. Students should apply, be accepted, enroll in their first courses, and confirm a plan to pay for their courses prior to this date.

SessionSemester Check-InSession Start Date
Session AFriday, August 11Monday, August 21
Session MFriday, September 8Monday, September 18
Session BFriday, October 13Monday, October 23
Session CThursday, January 4Monday, January 8
Session TFriday, January 26Monday, February 5
Session DFriday, March 1Monday, March 11
Session EFriday, April 26Monday, May 6
Session FFriday, June 7Monday, June 17

Prerequisites

A bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution and three years of full time professional work experience are required for both elementary and secondary tracks.

Additional Requirements:

  • CS (Elementary): If you are planning to teach either pre-K-3 or pre-K-6 in an elementary school, click here for an outline of admission requirements.
  • CS (Secondary): If you are planning to teach in either a middle or high school, you will need to pass both the Praxis II in the subject area you plan to teach and the Virginia Communications and Literacy Assessment (VCLA).

Admissions Requirements

Step 1: Apply to Regent University

Submit your application using the Regent University Online Application.

Note: If you are unable to complete our application due to a disability, please contact our Admissions Office at 757.352.4990 or admissions@regent.edu and an admissions representative will provide reasonable accommodations to assist you in completing the application.

Step 2: Submit Your Unofficial Transcripts

Submit your unofficial transcripts to regent.edu/items.

Upon submitting your application, you will receive an email requesting authorization for Regent University to obtain your official transcripts from your U.S. degree-granting institution. International transcripts must be evaluated by a NACES, AACRAO or NAFSA approved agency.

Step 3: Submit Your VDOE Application and Report on Experience

Submit your official VDOE Career Switcher Application and Report on Experience forms with a wet ink signature to the address below. To ensure your documents are correct prior to mailing the official copy, please submit an unofficial copy to regent.edu/items. Prospects are responsible for filing out the documents accurately; and incorrect forms can result in a prolonged review period for admissions.

Mailing Address:

Regent University
Enrollment Support Services
1000 Regent University Drive
Virginia Beach, VA 23464

Note: Prospects should not call the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) concerning this program; any questions will be answered by Regent University.

Step 4: Provide VCLA Scores

Arrange to have official VCLA scores sent directly to Regent University using Regent ETS code: 5135.

Step 5: Provide Praxis II Scores

We are able to accept an unofficial copy of your Praxis II exam in order to review your file for an admission decision. Please submit your unofficial scores to regent.edu/items.

Step 6: Submit Your Government-Issued ID

To ensure academic integrity, Regent University requires a copy of a government-issued ID. Please submit a scanned copy or photograph of it to regent.edu/items.


Please feel free to contact the Office of Admissions at 757.352.4990 or admissions@regent.edu should you have any further questions about the application process.

Note: All items submitted as part of the application process become the property of Regent University and cannot be returned.

Additional Requirements

Background Check: Because the program includes direct contact with students in field experiences, applicants to the Career Switcher Program must submit a background check. Regent University School of Education has entered into an agreement with CastleBranch, a private vendor that conducts background checks for many universities and educational institutions. After you are admitted into the program, you will be provided instructions to set up an online profile with CastleBranch and request your background check. Learn more.

First Aid, CPR, AED Training: Documentation that verifies completion of certification or training in emergency first aid, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), and the use of automated external defibrillators (AED). The certification or training program shall be based on the current national evidence-based emergency cardiovascular care guidelines for cardiopulmonary resuscitation and the use of an automated external defibrillator, such as a program developed by the American Heart Association or the American Red Cross. Note: VDOE no longer accepts training certificates obtained from an online source – training must be conducted in person.

Part-Time Students

DegreeTuition Cost Per Credit HourAverage Credit Hours Per SemesterAverage Tuition Per Semester
Master of Education (M.Ed.)$5656$3,390
Educational Specialist (Ed.S.)$8006$4,800
Doctor of Education (Ed.D.)$8003$2,400
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)$8003$2,400

Full-Time Students

DegreeTuition Cost Per Credit HourAverage Credit Hours Per SemesterAverage Tuition Per Semester
Master of Education (M.Ed.)$5659$5,085
Educational Specialist (Ed.S.)$8009$7,200
Doctor of Education (Ed.D.)$8006$4,800
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)$8006$4,800

Student Fees Per Semester

University Services Fee (On-Campus Students)$850 (Fall & Spring)
$700 (Summer)
University Services Fee (Online Students)$700

Military Admissions & Aid » | Cost of Attendance »

PART-TIME STUDENTS

DegreeTuition Cost Per Credit HourAverage Credit Hours Per SemesterAverage Tuition Per Semester
Master of Education (M.Ed.)$5656$3,390
Educational Specialist (Ed.S.)$8006$4,800
Doctor of Education (Ed.D.)$8003$2,400
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)$8003$2,400

Full-Time Students

DegreeTuition Cost Per Credit HourAverage Credit Hours Per SemesterAverage Tuition Per Semester
Master of Education (M.Ed.)$5659$5,085
Educational Specialist (Ed.S.)$8009$7,200
Doctor of Education (Ed.D.)$8006$4,800
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)$8006$4,800

Student Fees Per Semester

University Services Fee (On-Campus Students)$800 (Fall & Spring)
$650 (Summer)
University Services Fee (Online Students)$650

Military Admissions & Aid » | Cost of Attendance »

*Rates are subject to change at any time.

How can I use a Career Switcher license?

The Career Switcher Program leads to elementary, middle or high school (Pre-K-12) teacher certification in the state of Virginia upon the successful completion of all program requirements. Regent has the only Career Switcher program in Virginia that has been fully online for the past ten years. Prior to beginning the program, applicants must submit passing scores for Praxis II and the Virginia Communication and Literacy Assessment (VCLA).

Can I use my Career Switcher license to teach virtually from home?

No, the Career Switcher license is for face-to-face classroom instruction.

Will Regent help me with field placements and with getting my teaching license?

Absolutely!  Click here to learn about the detailed support we provide for you.

What are the Career Switcher endorsement areas?

Business & Information Technology

Career & Technical Education*

Computer Science

Dance (Pre-K-12)

Elementary Education (Pre-K-3)*

Elementary Education (Pre-K-6)*

English (Secondary)*

English – Teaching English as a Second Language (TESOL) (K-12)

Family & Consumer Sciences

Foreign Languages (Pre-K-12)

Health & Physical Education (Pre-K-12)

History & Social Sciences (Secondary)

Marketing Education

Mathematics* 6-12 (including Algebra 1)

Middle Education* (6-8)

Music (Pre-K-12)

Science*

Science – Biology*

Science – Chemistry*

Science – Earth Science*

Science – Physics*

Theatre Arts (PreK-12)

Visual Arts (PreK-12)

All endorsements are for grades 6-12 unless otherwise indicated.
*Indicates critical shortage areas for 2023-24 as defined by VDOE.

What are the Steps to Licensure?

LEVEL I

Level I preparation includes a minimum of 180 clock hours of instruction, plus field experience. After completing Level I preparation, candidates are awarded a one-year Career Switcher Provisional License and are expected to obtain employment in a Virginia public or accredited non-public school. For Career Switcher Provisional License requirements, visit the Virginia Department of Education.

LEVEL II

Level II preparation is required by VDOE to be taken during first year of teaching and consists of two courses and mentorships — trained mentors are assigned to assist candidates throughout their first year of employment. Format includes one year in a full-time, paid teaching position at a public or accredited non-public school. Online courses and the mentorships take place during this time.

I’m in the military, can I be a Career Switcher?

Absolutely! Go from serving your country to serving your community as a teacher. Regent’s alumni include former and retired service members from all branches of the military who are now teaching throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia. Our program is designed to meet your needs and enables you to start even before you’ve left the military. Regent University and the Virginia Troops to Teachers Center collaborate to support active military and veterans interested in obtaining their teaching license. Registering for Troops to Teachers is a complementary service to your educational program. Regent’s Military Resource Center is dedicated to helping you identify your military benefits and walk you through the steps of enrollment, financial aid and how to reach your academic and career goals.

Troops to Teachers Logo

Career Switcher Testimonials

Career Switchers have a desire to teach and help children learn. As they embark on their journey to make a difference in the world of education, each has a unique story to tell that bridges former life experiences with a renewed calling. Read these inspiring testimonials from Career Switcher alumni.

Course Sequence

Sequence of course offerings: Level I

From SU23 onwards all six Level I courses will be offered every semester. Candidates wishing to complete Level I in just one semester should plan to start in Sessions A, B, C, D, E, or F.

Sequence of course offerings: Level II

  • Fall Session B: EFND 536
  • Spring Session C: EFND 537

M.Ed. Option

Regent offers the only Master of Education (M.Ed.) program in Virginia for a Career Switcher Program — which now includes an elementary school teaching path — all fully online. Whether you want to teach at the elementary, middle or high school level, we will enhance your understanding of classroom best practices and the latest advances in educational technology. Taking the additional credits to acquire your master’s degree is optional, but our Master of Education in Individualized Studies for Career Switchers builds upon the skills you acquired during the teacher preparation program. Presented from a Christian worldview, this degree is supported by award-winning faculty in Virginia Beach.

On completing this CAEP-accredited M.Ed. program, you can:

  • Teach at the elementary or secondary level depending selected path.
  • Integrate new and innovative skills to enhance teaching.
  • Apply instructional strategies to improve classroom learning.
  • Identify, select, modify and use instructional materials to meet the needs of diverse student populations.

For students who entered the program prior to January 2021 the requirement for the degree is 32 graduate credit hours; for students entering on or after that date the requirement is 30 hours.

Level I & II

M.Ed. Option for Career Switchers who have completed Level I

Students must complete at least 14 credits in addition to Career Switcher (18) credit hours:

  • EDIP 543 Technology in Education (3)
  • EFND 598 Professional Project (2)* (No longer required for students entering the program from January 2021 onwards.)
  • ETSL 540 Multicultural Education (3)
  • ETSP 570 Instructional Methods for Students with Disabilities (3)

Choose one elective from the following:

  • EDIP 541 Developmental Leadership (3)
  • EFND 509 Character Education Curricula, Instruction & Assessment (3)
  • ETSL 505 Serving English Language Learners in K-12 Classrooms (3)

M.Ed. Option for Career Switchers who have completed Level II

Students must complete at least 8 credits in addition to Career Switcher (24) credit hours:

  • EFND 598 Professional Project (2)* (No longer required for students entering the program from January 2021 onwards.)
  • ETSL 540 Multicultural Education (3)

Choose one elective from the following:

  • EDIP 543 Technology in Education (3)
  • ETSL 505 Serving English Language Learners in K-12 Classrooms (3)
  • ETSP 570 Instructional Methods for Students with Disabilities (3)

Our Career Switcher team is available to answer your questions:

Mervyn J. Whiting, Career Switcher program Chair at Regent University.

Mervyn J. Wighting, Ph.D.
Career Switcher Program Chair
mervwig@regent.edu

Brenda Vaughan, Field Placements Coordinator at Regent University's School of Education.

Brenda Vaughan
Field Placements Coordinator
bvaughan@regent.edu

Ashley Rombs, Certification/Licensure Official at Regent University's School of Education.

Ashley Rombs
Certification/Licensure Official
arombs@regent.edu

“If you are considering a career in teaching,
 consider preparing at Regent University.”

Doreatha White, M.Ed., 1997 Principal, J.J. Roberts Elementary School

“When I felt called to teaching after a career in the military, Regent University bridged the gap and laid a solid, Christian-based path for me to follow.”

John Pienkowski, M.Ed., 2017 Level II Career Switcher

“The program offered a great financing opportunity for teachers, and it also had that caliber of education I was looking for but at a reasonable price. Plus, it’s local, yet also accessible from a distance.”

Kristin Garmin, M.Ed. , 2016 Reading Specialist (with endorsement)

“I was eager to fulfill a lifelong dream and make a career change to education. Regent's Career Switcher program allowed me to complete most of the training while still on active duty. I was hired immediately upon my retirement from the Air Force.”

Joe Sexton, M.Ed., 2012 Career Switcher

“As I pondered what do to with the rest of my life when I retired from the Navy, I knew I wanted a job that made me feel valuable and one in which I felt I was making a difference. Thanks to Regent's Career Switcher Program, I know in my heart that as a teacher I do that every day.”

Beth Lambert, M.Ed., 2010 Senior Curriculum Developer

“One of the biggest skills I learned through my studies at Regent was confidence. I learned that I am worthy, and I can go forward in my career and affect more students than just those in my own classroom.”

Kathy Galford, Ed.D., 2018 School Principal, Chesapeake Public Schools