Ontario Teacher Certification FAQs

BACHELOR’S DEGREE PROGRAM

Ontario Teacher Certification

FAQs Bachelor of Professional Studies (B.P.S.) Primary/Junior or Intermediate Senior Teacher Preparation

sishwaran@niagara.edu 905.294.7260 x2

www.niagara.edu/ontario-teacher-certification

WHAT ARE THE PROGRAMS OFFERED? Elementary certification (Primary/Junior) Primary: Junior Kindergarten – grade 3 Junior: grade 4 – grade 6 Secondary certification (Intermediate/Senior) Intermediate: grade 7 – grade 10 Senior: grade 11 – grade 12 Upon completion of either program, graduates will hold a bachelor of professional studies degree in teacher education.

WHERE IS NIAGARA UNIVERSITY IN ONTARIO LOCATED? Niagara University in Ontario is conveniently located in the heart of the City of Vaughan, just north of Toronto. We are located two blocks from the Toronto subway station at Vaughan Metropolitan Centre, which is quickly becoming a major transportation hub for the northern Greater Toronto Area. Our Vaughan location offers modern amenities and a comfortable learning environment for students.

Niagara University 2904 Hwy 7 West, Unit 113 Vaughan, ON L4K 0K4 IS THE ENTIRE PROGRAM TAKEN IN ONTARIO? Yes, all coursework, field experiences, and practica will be completed in Ontario.

IS NIAGARA UNIVERSITY IN ONTARIO A RECOGNIZED INSTITUTION? Yes, Niagara University in Ontario holds written consent under the Ontario Ministry of Trainging, Colleges, and Universities.

IS NIAGARA UNIVERSITY IN ONTARIO ACCREDITED BY THE ONTARIO COLLEGES OF TEACHERS? Yes, Niagara University in Ontario is accredited by the Ontario College of Teachers WILL I BE CERTIFIED TO TEACH IN ONTARIO AFTER COMPLETING THE PROGRAM? Niagara University in Ontario holds written consent under the Ontario Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities and is accredited by the Ontario College of Teachers. Upon completion of Niagara University in Ontario’s program, official transcripts of coursework will be sent to the Ontario College of Teachers by the Niagara University College of Education. As with all Ontario universities, teacher candidates apply to the Ontario College of Teachers for a Certification of Qualifications.

WHAT IS THE DEADLINE FOR APPLYING? Niagara University has a rolling admissions policy. Applications are considered as they are received and evaluated in a holistic fashion in keeping with the mission of the university. The earlier you apply, the sooner your application will be considered. Qualified students will continue to be accepted until the program is full. Please note programs may fill up without advance notice.

WHAT IS THE COST OF TUITION FOR THE PROGRAM? The total program cost for the 2022-2023 academic year – $32,100 CAD 60 credit hours x $535 CAD per credit hour = $32,100 CAD BESIDES TUITION, ARE THERE ANY ADDITIONAL FEES? There is a $25 registration fee for each semester and a Chalk and Wire electronic portfolio fee of $64 per year.

IS A BACCALAUREATE DEGREE REQUIRED TO APPLY? Yes, a baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university is required for admission. The degree conferral should be posted on the final transcript you submit. Your final transcripts must be sealed, unopened, and mailed from your college/university they can be mailed to the address listed below. Electronic transcripts can be sent to ontario@niagara.edu.

Niagara University 2904 Hwy 7 West, Unit 113 Vaughan, ON L4K 0K4 WHAT IS REQUIRED TO APPLY? Along with your official transcripts, you will also need to submit a statement of intent, two references and a resume or experience profile. All can be uploaded onto your application as Word or PDF documents.

WHAT IF I AM “IN PROGRESS” WITH A SCHEDULED GRADUATION DATE? Individuals who are still students and currently “in progress” with a graduation date planned before the start of Niagara University’s program need to indicate this on their application. Also, an official letter from the college/university should be submitted to verify your planned graduation date. The “in progress” letter is provided by the registrar or academic department.

Please submit with your application the “in progress” letter and current transcript showing classes you are currently enrolled in. A final transcript will be required once your degree is conferred and posted.

DO I NEED PRIOR VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE TO BE CONSIDERED FOR THE PROGRAM? Niagara University in Ontario highly recommends engaging in experiences with children and adolescents but does not require it. Any time spent working with children and adolescents is valuable and certainly a great way to gain classroom experience.

Please note any experience on resume and/or experience profile.

DO I GET TO PICK MY SCHEDULE? Since the program is cohort-based, your schedule is assigned.

Cohort-based programs are programs in which candidates attend courses and field experiences as a specific group earning their degree together in professional learning community. A cohort approach takes a diverse group of students, and builds a community of teacher-learners by structuring their class schedules together in a way that emphasizes collegiality.

The learning of each individual will assist the learning of others; the accomplishments of one should help all. This adds to the peer support that candidates experience within their group while at Niagara University, in field experiences, practicum, and later as alumni.

HOW LONG IS THE PROGRAM AND HOW MANY DAYS PER WEEK IS IT? Both the elementary and secondary programs will be four semesters long and will take approximately two years to complete.

Classes will be held three to four days per week, including field experiences.

Semester 1: Fall (August - December) Semester 2: Spring (January - May) Summer Off Semester 3: Fall (August - December) Semester 4: Spring (January - May) (Practicum placements are not available in the summer; therefore you do not attend in the summer).

You must also factor in time for your field experiences during the first and second semesters.

WHAT IS THE CURRICULUM DESIGN OF THE PROGRAM? Semester 1: Foundations Semester 2: Methods/Pedagogy Semester 3: Practicum Semester 4: Practicum WHAT IS THE FIELD EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENT OF THE PROGRAM? Field experiences are designed to provide practical experience in various types of schools, learning environments, grade levels (as they apply to the certificate), and in the diversity of the students population in classrooms. Field experiences can be completed in Public or Catholic school boards or a combination of both. Niagara University in Ontario field experiences exceed those that are required by The Ontario Ministry of Education. The following field experiences are embedded into the program: 1st Semester: Impact Field Experiences 2nd Semester: Teaching Assistantship 3rd Semester: Practicum I 4th Semester: Practicum II Secondary students will have placements in the content areas of their two teachables.

WHAT CREDIT SYSTEM DOES NIAGARA UNIVERSITY IN ONTARIO USE? Niagara University in Ontario is on the three credit-hour system. Three credit hours equal a .5 credit per half-year course. Many Canadian courses are full year, which would equate to six credit hours. Five full-year courses (or 10 half credits) would equate to 30 college/university credit hours.

HOW MANY CREDITS DO I NEED IN MY FIRST TEACHABLE AND SECOND TEACHABLE IF I WANT TO TEACH SECONDARY? The first specific teachable area requires six full year courses (36 credits/units). The second teachable area requires three full year courses (18 credits/units). Two teachables are required for the Niagara University in Ontario program.

HOW CAN I FIND MORE INFORMATION AND UPCOMING EVENTS? More information pertaining to Niagara’s Teacher Education program can be found online at https://niagarau.ca/programslistings/bps/. It is highly recommended that you attend an informational session. Informational sessions, both in Ontario and on the NU campus, will be coming up soon times, dates, and registration information can be found at https://apply.niagara.edu/portal/graduate-list.

WHAT ARE THE ONTARIO TEACHABLES FOR SECONDARY EDUCATION THAT NIAGARA UNIVERSITY OFFERS? • Business Studies – Accounting • Business Studies – Entrepreneurship • Business Studies – General • Business Studies – Information and Communication Technology • Computer Studies • Dramatic Arts • Visual Arts • English • French as a Second Language • Geography • History

• International Languages – Spanish • Mathematics • Religious Education in Catholic Schools • Science – Biology • Science – Chemistry • Science – General • Science – Physics • Social Sciences – General • Philosophy • Economics • Politics

WHERE IS NIAGARA UNIVERSITY’S NEW YORK CAMPUS LOCATED? Niagara University is located in the Town of Lewiston, N.Y. It stands atop the picturesque Niagara River Gorge, four miles from the world-famous Niagara Falls and overlooks the Province of Ontario, Canada. The Queenston-Lewiston Bridge is only one mile from Niagara University. Niagara University was founded in 1856.

WHAT ARE THE TEACHER EDUCATION ADMISSIONS REQUIREMENTS? Students are required to have a baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university with a minimum overall GPA of 70%. Individuals applying to the secondary program also need a minimum of 70% average in both teachable areas. Please note that we review all aspects of the application from grades, to references to, the statement of intent, to an individual’s background and experience to deter-mine a person’s suitability to become a teacher and complete the Teacher Education program at Niagara University. Consistent with our Vincentian Mission, Niagara University encourages all men and women whose aptitude and demonstrated achievement in university or college give evidence of their ability to successfully complete the program to apply for admission. We welcome all students, regardless of race, gender, national origin, religious preference, sexual orientation, status as a veteran, or disability.

HOW LONG IS THE NIAGARA UNIVERSITY IN ONTARIO PROGRAM AND WHEN WILL IT START? The Ontario College of Teachers requires a minimum of 80 practicum days spread over two semesters. The Teacher Education program at Niagara University exceeds this requirement by requiring students to compete 100 practicum days over two semesters. While every effort will be exercised to find placements that are suitable to each student’s situation, students must be prepared to take a leave of absence from their employment to equal 100 days of practicum work during their second year of study at Niagara University. This is a conversation students should have with their employers prior to commencing the teacher education program. If you have questions about when these 100 days can take place, please email ontario@niagara.edu and we will answer your questions to the best of our ability.

BECAUSE NIAGARA’S DEGREE IS AT A BACHELORS LEVEL, AND SOME SCHOOLS OFFER THEIR TEACHER EDUCATION AS MASTERS DEGREE, DOES THIS AFFECT MY PLACE ON THE SALARY GRID AFTER GRADUATION? No! Your place on the grid is determined by outside agencies that assess your overall qualifications. Both the BPS and M.S.Ed degrees are considered initial teacher certification programs. To move up on the grid, you need additional degrees, credentials and course work on top of the initial teacher education program. Note as well that initial teacher certification in Ontario has moved to a 4 semester program, thus graduates of Niagara’s program in Ontario will have more credits, which may be looked upon favorably with the agencies that assess a teacher’s qualifications and placement on the salary grid.

WHEN IS THE APPLICATION DEADLINE? WHEN CAN I START? Niagara University offers rolling admissions, therefore, there is no specific deadline to apply. Admission will be offered to qualified students on a first-come-first-served basis, so interested students are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.

Please note that in previous years, Niagara University has had a wait list of qualified applicants to enter our popular program.

Students should thus be submitting all of their documents as soon as they can. Classes begin the last week of August.

Remember to submit ALL application materials.

Materials marked “Mailed” on the online application can be sent to: Niagara University 2904 Hwy 7 West, Unit 113 Vaughan, ON L4K 0K4 Niagara University reserves the right to make revisions on any or all specifications contained here-in and to apply such revisions to current and new students alike. The provisions in this document are to be considered directive in character and not as an irrevocable contract between the student and university.

WHO IS ELIGIBLE FOR THE PARAPROFESSIONAL TEACHER EDUCATION COHORT? This option is intended for experienced educators who are currently employed as teachers in a private school, but do not currently have a degree in teacher education or an OCT designation. It is also aimed at early childhood educators and educational assistants currently employed by a school board in the province of Ontario. In order to be eligible for the paraprofessional cohort, students must meet the admission requirements for the BPS in Teacher Education program and show proof of employment as a teacher in a private school, or as an ECE/EA in a public or Catholic school board in the province of Ontario.

WHAT IS THE PARAPROFESSIONAL COHORT SCHEDULE? The first two semesters of the program consist of course work. These courses are typically taken on Friday evenings and Saturdays. Semesters 3 and 4 are designated as Practicum terms. In addition, students in Semesters 3 and 4 will take courses and participate in seminars as part of their learning. These courses are designed with the working student in mind, and offered outside of normal school hours.

HOW WILL THE PRACTICUM WORK IF I AM WORKING AS A PRIVATE SCHOOL TEACHER OR EA/ECE IN A SCHOOL BOARD? Students will need to take a leave of absence to complete the practicum requirement. The practicum will require 50 days in semester three and 50 days in semester four. Students will still graduate in their second year.

WILL I BE ELIGIBLE FOR THE OCT DESIGNATION FROM THE ONTARIO COLLEGE OF TEACHER? Yes! The Bachelors of Professional Studies in Teacher Education is accredited by the Ontario College of Teachers.

IS THE ENTIRE PARAPROFESSIONAL COHORT COMPLETED IN ONTARIO? Yes, there is no need to cross the border! You will complete all aspects of the program – from course work to practicum – right here in the Greater Toronto Area. Your practicum placement will be arranged by NU staff at locations that take your preferences into account.

NIAGARA UNIVERSITY BPS COURSE SEQUENCES Primary/Junior Sequence Total: 60 credit hours Semester One: Foundations (15 credits)

Intermediate/Senior Sequence Total: 60 credit hours Semester One: Foundations (15 credits)

EDU 423

Foundations of Education

EDU 423

Foundations of Education

EDU 430

Methods of Teaching Elementary Education

EDU 436

Human Development

EDU 436

Human Development

EDU 439

Students with Exceptional Needs

EDU 439

Students with Exceptional Needs

EDU 448

Foundations of Literacy

EDU 448

Foundations of Literacy

EDU 460

Methods of Teaching Secondary Education

IMPACT Experience (75 hours)

IMPACT Experience (75 hours)

Semester Two: Methods (15 credits)

Semester Two: Methods (15 credits)

EDU 431

Methods of Teaching Math/Science

EDU 451

Assessment of Learning

EDU 432

Methods of Teaching Health/P.E./Arts

EDU 452

Middle Childhood Philosophy and Practice

EDU 433

Methods of Teaching Social Studies and Language Arts

EDU 459-466Specific Teachable I

EDU 451

Assessment of Learning

EDU 498

EDU 498

Instructional Technology

Teaching Assistantship (75 hours connected to methods Course)

Teaching Assistantship (75 hours connected to methods Course)

EDU 459-466Specific Teachable II Instructional Technology

Semester Three: Professional Practice (15 credits) Semester Three: Professional Practice (15 credits)

EDU 428

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

EDU 495

Introduction to Educational Research

EDU 418

EDU 425

Methods and Materials for Early Learning

Professional Seminar in Intermediate/ Senior Education

EDU 417

Professional Seminar in Primary/Junior Divisions

EDU 440-446Intermediate/Senior Practicum I

EDU 447

Primary/Junior Practicum

EDU 495

Introduction to Educational Research

Practicum (Minimum 10 weeks/ 50 days)

Practicum (Minimum 10 weeks/ 50 days)

Semester Four: Practicum (15 credits)

Semester Four: Practicum (15 credits)

EDU 491

Professional Seminar in Primary/Junior Divisions

EDU 490

EDU 449

Primary/Junior Practicum II

Professional Seminar in Intermediate/ Senior Divisions

Elective

EDU 410-416 Intermediate/Senior Practicum II

Elective

Elective

Practicum (Minimum 10 weeks/ 50 days)

Elective Practicum (Minimum 10 weeks/ 50 days)

sishwaran@niagara.edu • 905.294.7260 x2

www.niagarau.ca/programs-listings/bps