Upcoming Enrollment Sessions dates:

• Tuesday, June 24, 2008	1-229	05:30 PM		West
  Thursday, June 26, 2008	3-105	05:30 PM		Osceola
  Tuesday, July 22, 2008	1-229	05:30 PM		West
  Thursday, July 24, 2008	3-105	05:30 PM		Osceola

Sign up for an Enrollment Session here

The Educator Preparation Institute (EPI) Alternative Certification Program

The Educator Preparation Institute (EPI) program is designed for individuals who want to teach, but hold a bachelor's degree in an area other than education.  This alternative certification program provides the knowledge and tools necessary for earning a Florida Professional Teaching Certificate.

The program consists of 7 courses and 2 field experiences.  The 2 field experience courses require a total of 30 hours of observation in an approved school classroom. Each course is 6-8 weeks in length and is presented in a hybrid format: meeting one night a week for 3 hours on campus with all other coursework being online. There are several projects and research assignments that will need to be completed for each course. You can estimate about 10 hours worth of coursework per week, per course to be completed outside of class. Many students take 2 courses at a time, but you are not required to take more than one. By taking 2 courses at a time, you can complete the program in two semesters.

These courses will prepare you not only for the Florida Teacher Certification Exam (Profession), but for success as a teacher in a classroom. Please refer to Courses link for more information regarding courses.

Requirements for participation include:

• Hold a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited college or university
• Obtain a statement of Status of Eligibility from the Florida Department of Education (FLDOE) stating "You are Eligible"
• Complete all required paperwork
• Sign-up for and attend an EPI Enrollment Session
• Submit EPI Application to the Answer Center , pay admission fee in the Business Office, and register for courses after attending the Enrollment Session

The following paperwork must be completed and presented at the EPI Enrollment Session:

• Completed EPI Application
• Official transcripts from degree issuing college or university must be received at or prior to Enrollment Session
• Statement of Status of Eligibility from FLDOE
• FEAPs Assessment
• OCPS Internship paperwork (for anyone not employed as a full-time teacher)
• Short Biography
• EPI Student Information Form

If you interested in being part of this innovative program, please refer to the Steps to Alternative Certification link for more information on how to enroll.

If you have further questions, please refer to our Frequently Asked Questions link or use the Contact Us link to email us your specific questions. We will respond in a timely manner.

TOP