Newsletter

School of Education Undergraduate Programs

Fifth graders

There is no more powerful way to influence the world for good than to become a teacher. Seattle Pacific University offers one of the premier teacher preparation programs in the region. You will be able to make a positive impact on student learning while bringing hope to families and communities.

The SPU School of Education is approved by the Professional Education Standards Board to offer certification programs, and our graduates are among the most sought-after educators in the field. You’ll benefit from a combination of class and field work, which includes opportunities for diverse experiences within school settings in urban Seattle. Each component of the program is designed to develop your competence and character, while preparing you for leadership and service.

Undergraduate teacher candidates complete all requirements for a bachelor’s degree in addition to the requirements for the Residency Teacher Certification Program.

Were you a former teacher? Check out this alternative edTPA.

a 360 degree look at Seattle Pacific University's campus

Visit Peterson Hall, home of the School of Education, from your phone or computer through Seattle Pacific’s new 360 Virtual Tour! You can also check out other campus buildings — and soar over some of our favorite Northwest highlights.

What Makes a Good Teacher?

Response magazine explores this provocative topic, interviewing alumna Michaela Miller, Washington state’s National Board for National Teaching Standards coordinator, and alumnus Jay Maebori, the 2011 Washington State Teacher of the Year. Read the article.

Alternative to edTPA for past students 

As of 2021, the edTPA is no longer a requirement to earn a teaching certificate in the state of Washington. However, educator-preparation programs must use an internal assessment process to verify a teaching candidate’s preparedness before recommending them for certification.

Graduates from SOE’s Teacher Education programs — no more than six years from the conclusion of certification coursework  — who are seeking a residency teaching certificate, must contact the program chair to schedule a meeting to discuss the process. Please note: The process may include and is not limited to the completion of an ePortfolio, recorded presentation, and a Professional Growth Plan.  

Scott	Beers

Why I Teach at SPU

Scott Beers, Assistant Dean, Graduate Programs

"I have long believed that I am called to teach. Challenging students with new ideas and creating activities that help them learn is a life-giving experience for me. I aim to inspire and equip my students to help children become better readers and writers. It is a privilege to teach SPU students who will dramatically improve the lives of young people."