Higher Education Teaching Certificate

Program Overview

The Higher Education Teaching certificate program at San José State University equips current and future instructors with culturally-sustaining and responsive pedagogical knowledge grounded in social justice. Through a hybrid modality, the program combines online coursework with in-person practicum experiences, focusing on diversity, equity, and emancipatory pedagogy. Graduates are prepared for careers in higher education, including faculty, community college instructors, and educational administrators.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The Higher Education Teaching certificate program at San José State University provides graduate-level coursework and classroom experience to prepare current and future higher education instructors. The program aims to develop postsecondary faculty's culturally-sustaining and responsive pedagogical knowledge grounded in social justice, equity, and inclusion. It offers a well-rounded experience that integrates theory and teaching practicum. The program is offered in a hybrid modality, with courses taught online and practicum activities taking place in person.

Outline:

Course Schedule:

The program consists of three courses:

• EDLD 212C - Diversity, Equity, and Social Justice in Higher Education (3 units)
• EDLD 250 - Emancipatory Pedagogy in Higher Education (3 units)
• EDLD 251 - Higher Education Teaching Practicum (3 units)

Module Descriptions:

EDLD 212C - Diversity, Equity, and Social Justice in Higher Education:

• Explores the historical and contemporary contexts of diversity, equity, and social justice in higher education.
• Examines the impact of systemic oppression and privilege on students and faculty.
• Develops strategies for creating inclusive and equitable learning environments.

EDLD 250 - Emancipatory Pedagogy in Higher Education:

• Introduces the principles and practices of emancipatory pedagogy, which emphasizes student empowerment, critical thinking, and social transformation.
• Explores the role of the instructor as a facilitator and guide in the learning process.
• Develops lesson plans and teaching strategies that promote student engagement and critical consciousness.

EDLD 251 - Higher Education Teaching Practicum:

• Provides supervised teaching experience in a higher education setting.
• Students work with a mentor faculty member to develop and implement lesson plans, assess student learning, and reflect on their teaching practice.
• Focuses on developing effective teaching skills, including classroom management, communication, and assessment.

Assessment:

Students are assessed through a variety of methods, including:

• Written assignments (e.g., essays, lesson plans, teaching reflections)
• Class participation
• Teaching demonstrations
• Portfolio of teaching materials

Teaching:

The program is taught by experienced faculty in the College of Education. Faculty members use a variety of teaching methods, including:

• Lectures
• Discussions
• Workshops
• Simulations
• Online learning platforms
The program also emphasizes mentorship and collaboration. Students have the opportunity to work closely with faculty mentors and peers to develop their teaching skills and knowledge.

Careers:

Graduates of the Higher Education Teaching certificate program are prepared for a variety of careers in higher education, including:

• College and university faculty
• Community college instructors
• Adult education teachers
• Instructional designers
• Educational administrators