The Teacher Certification Program is intended for the person who has earned a three- or four- year baccalaureate degree in a certifiable field but who has little or no coursework in professional education. A plan is designed for each student utilizing the courses taken in the previous degree. The graduate is eligible for certification through the Maine Department of Education. The University of Maine at Presque Isle offers education programs in the following areas:

• Elementary Education (K - 8)
• Secondary Education (7 - 12) with majors in
  • English
  • Social Studies
  • Mathematics
  • Life Science
  • Physical Science
• Physical Education (K - 12)
• French (K - 12)

Program Advantages

• Personalized admission decisions
• Program is a balance of theory and practice, and the faculty have experience in higher ed and the K-12
• PRAXIS exams are administered on-site
• UMPI Canadian tuition rates are considerably lower than most US colleges
• Graduates who become certified in Maine receive a letter of standing for their provinces
• Program leads to an education degree
• Student-teaching placement in Canada at University-approved locations.
• Standard program can be completed in 18 months

UMPI Advantages

• Small classes allow and encourage abundant student / faculty interaction
• Student to computer ratio of 13:1
• Safe campus and community environment
• Swimming, skiing, camping, snow shoeing and other recreational opportunities
• Support as students work with U.S. Immigration
• Short drive to New Brunswick

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Teacher Certification Program Schedule

The table below demonstrates how a post-baccalaureate student may achieve eligibility for teacher certification in Maine by studying at UMPI. Approved educational courses are guaranteed to be offered for the 45-hour and the 60-hour extended credit program. Extra content courses needed for certification in specific endorsement areas in Maine are not included. A transcript analysis for each individual student is done by program staff to determine content courses needed. Content courses may be taken at the University of Maine at Presque Isle, if available. Eligibility for teacher certification also requires achieving a passing score on the Praxis I (PPST in Reading , Writing, and Mathematics), passing the Praxis II test in the appropriate content area, and fingerprinting in Maine.

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Fingerprinting

You are required to have your fingerprints taken prior to being issued any type of Maine Department of Education certification. You must have your fingerprints taken through a process approved by the Maine Department of Education. This process can be completed once you arrive on campus.  Information regarding fingerprinting in Maine is available at: http://www.informe.org/cgi-bin/doe/fingerprint.pl. There is a $55.00 fee for the fingerprinting services.

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What Canadian students say about their UMPI experience

"The small school atmosphere here is wonderful and creates some real opportunities for close interaction with professors. I've been really impressed with the education faculty. They keep up-to-date with the latest trends in education and believe strongly in the constructivist theory, which focuses on the active role of the learner and encourages hands-on, minds-on learning. I've also been impressed with the number of activities on campus. Coming from a major city, I was unclear what kind of social life might be available. But the campus has a very active Student Activities Board that brings a lot of bands, movies, and other entertainment to campus on a regular basis. The campus also has some very active clubs and organizations, and the Outdoor Adventure Program really spices up the winter! Attending UMPI was a major decision. I believe that I am receiving a quality education with a personal touch." Lea Lamoureux from Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, UMPI class of 2002.

"Almost 20 years after earning my B.A., my desire to become a teacher led me to the University of Maine. At UMPI I found the support I needed to succeed, not only as a mature student, but also as a Canadian attending an American university. Emphasis is given to making the transition as smooth as possible, and your experience a positive one." Kelly McFadden from Russell, Ontario, UMPI class of 2000

"UMPI has provided me with the necessary skills and knowledge that are needed to become successful in today's teaching environment. The small campus and small classes made getting to know your professors and peers much easier and more relaxed. The entire Education Department at the University honestly cares about your success in the program, and they all do whatever they can to help you along the way." Robert Baldwin from Sydney, Nova Scotia, UMPI class of 2000

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