Art Education
A Bachelor of Arts in Art Education at USF prepares students to become art educators in various educational settings.
Education
Accreditation
The Fredrikson School of Education at the University of Sioux Falls is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) and the South Dakota State Board of Education until Spring 2030.
Education Degree Options
When you major in education at USF, you’ll be prepared for your own classroom and whatever career decisions you make in the future.
Biology Secondary Education
A biology secondary education degree is designed to prepare students to become effective biology teachers for middle and high school students, typically grades 6-12.
Elementary Education
A Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education prepares students to become effective educators for young children, typically from kindergarten through sixth grade.
English Learners
An English learners minor is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to effectively teach and support individuals who are learning English as an additional language.
English Secondary Education
A bachelor's degree in English secondary education prepares students to become effective English teachers for middle and high school students, typically ranging from grades 7-12.
History & Political Science Secondary Education
A history & political science secondary education degree prepares students to become knowledgeable and effective educators in both history and political science subjects, typically for middle and high school levels.
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Additional Resources
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Life At USF
Discover a student community filled with organizations, events and support. The USF campus experience fosters growth and opportunity for every student.
Learn More »Campus Ministries
In Campus Ministries, we focus on loving Christ and serving Him. No matter what denomination you are, you'll feel welcome.
Learn More »Tuition & Costs
Explore our tuition and cost details to see how USF can be a feasible and rewarding choice for your academic journey.
Learn More »Financial Aid
USF is among the most affordable institutions in the region. We’re here to explain USF’s financial aid details, processes and options for all students.
Learn More »Certification / Licensure
Please use the online application which may be found on the South Dakota Department of Education website, Office of Accreditation & Teacher Quality. Once there, you have several choices, including initial licensure (first-time teachers), renewal, additional authorizations (program completion for principals, reading specialists, superintendents, etc.) and additional endorsements (for less than program completion). This website includes everything you'll need to know about licensure such as initial certification, renewals, additional authorization and additional endorsements.
Universities attended, dates, degrees, majors; Praxis II test scores and dates; credit card.
The Fredrikson School of Education Certification Officer will send your official transcript to Pierre for you. Two exceptions: 1. If you are in the M.Ed. in Teaching program, your content is actually from your previous degree; 2. If you have a previous degree and are here obtaining elementary education certification, much of your coursework comes from that undergraduate transcript. In both of these cases, an official transcript from your undergraduate institution will be needed. If that undergraduate degree was earned at USF, the Certification Officer will obtain that one for you as well. If not, please have your university send an official transcript directly to Michelle Hanson. That way, everything can be sent together and there is less chance of a mix-up. Although USF has an official transcript from your application process, that transcript must stay in your file as part of the permanent record.
Please Remember: The Certification Officer cannot sign off until your grade/degree has been posted, which usually happens in late December or early June (depending upon your graduation date). If you have an outstanding balance or another type of hold on your account, the Registrar is unable to print an official transcript. The sign-off cannot be completed until an official transcript is available. If you plan to apply for certification in a different state, it is recommended that you apply in South Dakota. The fee is very reasonable and some states require that you have a license from the state in which you were prepared. However, in recent years, the processing time has increased. Thus, you may need to apply for both at the same time. Access a hard copy of the application by searching the Department of Education website. Select the application specifically for individuals who have been trained out-of-state. Typically, there is a portion that must be completed by the Registrar or Certification Officer, referring to the USF Certification Officer. Even if you are missing a requirement, most states will issue a provisional license for one year.
The University of Sioux Falls educator preparation programs are approved by the South Dakota State Board of Education. USF is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. The Fredrikson School of Education is nationally accredited by CAEP (Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation.) All students who complete a program are eligible to be recommended for an initial South Dakota teaching certificate regardless of the state in which they reside, and they are encouraged to apply for South Dakota teacher certification immediately upon completion of their degree.
Teacher education graduates may also be eligible for University of Sioux Falls recommendation for certification in other states. Teaching certification/licensure requirements vary among states. Please refer to the Professional Licensure Disclosures and speak to your academic advisor for more information.
Praxis Testing
The Praxis tests are a series of standardized exams designed to measure the knowledge and skills of individuals seeking to enter the teaching profession. Praxis tests are used by many states and licensing agencies as part of their teacher certification process.
- Exam Information
- Registration Dates
- Fees
- Testing Sites
- Required Tests
- Cut Scores
Forms and Manuals
- Deadlines and Events
- Application to Teacher Education Program (TE1)
- Application to Teacher Education Program (TE1.5) must currently hold bachelor's degree
- Teacher Education Manual
- Teacher Residency Manuals