New Mexico Highlands University

Tuition is $525 per credit hour.
Your total cost will depend on how many credits you need to complete the program. Check out the estimated totals below.

In your first eight weeks with the Alternative Teacher Certification Program, you will begin with:

• An orientation or essential processes course
• Your first seminar course 
• An effective teaching course 

As you progress, coursework varies based on your licensure area. For example, if you're a future elementary teacher, you'll take early literacy and curriculum, planning, assessment & evaluation in your second eight-week session while continuing your seminar course.

Throughout the program, you will teach full-time, applying what you learn in real-time, ensuring a practical, hands-on approach to your development as an educator.

You will be immersed in real-world teaching from the start of the program:

• Full-time teaching placement– You will teach full-time while completing coursework and applying strategies in a real classroom.
• Seminar courses & coaching– Ongoing support from faculty and peers helps refine teaching methods.
• Field-based assignments– Observations, lesson planning and assessments connect theory to practice.
• Mentorship & support– Mentor teachers and faculty provide personalized feedback for growth.

The Alternative Teacher Certification Program equips you to meet the academic, social and emotional needs of all students through:

• Culturally responsive coursework– Training in accessible education, trauma-informed practices and multilingual education.
• Specialized training– Courses in English as a Second Language and special education to support students with various needs. 
• Real-world experience– Full-time teaching with coaching and mentorship.
• Ongoing learning– Workshops on access, mental health and other student needs. 

In the Alternative Teacher Certification Program, you will be paired with a university field supervisor who plays a vital role in your development. The supervisor will do the following:  

• Observe your teaching four times per year.
• Provide detailed feedback to enhance your instructional practice.
• Connect with you weekly to offer ongoing support, answer questions and guide your progress.

This consistent feedback ensures you continuously refine your skills and are well-prepared for the classroom.

New Mexico Highlands University’s Alternative Teacher Certification Program continuously improves through:

• Partnering with local school districts and community organizations.
• Using research on culturally responsive teaching and evidence-based strategies to guide curriculum.
• Gathering feedback from students, alums and school leaders through surveys and focus groups, ensuring the program evolves to meet the needs of future teachers. 
• Prioritizing student voice, allowing you to influence the program’s direction and enhance the learning experience.