The WNMU College of Education offers a state approved alternative licensure program in early childhood, elementary, secondary, and special education.

The New Mexico State Legislature authorizes the Public Education Department to provide alternative routes to New Mexico teacher licensure for persons who hold at least a baccalaureate degree but have not completed a traditional educator preparation program. Students in this program serve with an intern license for two years and must complete the program in that time frame.

Alternative Licensure Requirements:

Requirements for admission to the program must be completed concurrently:

1. Hold at least a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution with an appropriate endorsement field. Endorsement field requirements determined by the NM Public Education Department require a minimum of 24 undergraduate credits that pertain to the licensure area sought. [NMAC 6.60.3.8 A(1)];
2. Evidence of an overall grade point average of at least 3.0 for the last 64/36 credit hours of undergraduate/graduate work; or
   Evidence of an overall grade point average between 2.75 and 2.99 for the last 64/36 credit hours of undergraduate/graduate work will be admitted on Graduate Division FINAL Admission/Academic Probation status. An applicant who has been admitted on Graduate Division FINAL Admission/Academic Probation status must complete one semester of graduate work designated by his or her graduate advisor(s) with a grade-point average of 3.0 or better to be removed from Academic Probation. If a student does not meet these requirements, he or she will remain on Academic Probation or may be disqualified from the Graduate Division if he or she receives more than six credit hours with grades of C or lower. (See Grade Requirements);
3. Be employed as the teacher of record by an accredited private or public school in New Mexico in a teaching position with a state approved mentorship program;
4. After being admitted to the University but before starting coursework, secure a letter from the Dean of the College of Education to be sent to the Public Education Department and the School Principal indicating admission to an alternative licensure program;
5. Complete a degree plan with advisor.

Program Description:

The Secondary Alternative Licensure Program is a competency-base program that focuses on assisting practicing alternative licensure teahers in developing the skills they need to teach effectively while they are teaching full-time.  All assignments are focused on collecting evidence to show the development of mastery of the program core competencies.  All courses are synchronous virtual classes that meet on Zoom in the evenings. The program can be completed in 18 months. Coursework can apply towards a master of arts in teaching degree.

Exit Requirements

1. Successful completion of the exit portfolio during capstone that demonstrates with artifacts that all state competencies have been met;
2. Alternative Licensure teachers cannot count more than three credits with a grade of C toward fulfillment of the requirements for alternative licensure.