CERT First

CERT First is an approved coursework pathway which is part of the WVDE Alternative Certification Program. Admission is a two-step process that starts with application to the West Virginia Department of Education Alternative Certification Program with Shepherd University selected as the IHE course provider.

Eligibility Criteria for Admission

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution of higher education.
• Minimum cumulative 2.75 GPA on undergraduate coursework.
• WV Substitute teaching permit.
• Verification from WVDE that all general licensure requirements have been met:
  • Passing Scores on the Praxis Core or documentation of exemption as indicated in WV Licensure Testing Directory.
  • Passing Score/Level on the Content Exam(s) as indicated in the WV Licensure Testing Directory for the teaching specialization being pursued.
  • Criminal History Check.

Upon Approval from WVDE, apply to the Shepherd CERT First Program.

Upon admission, students enroll in the first two self-paced asynchronous online courses that contain assignments that must be completed in a WV public school. To successfully complete the CERT First Program, a minimum grade of ‘B’ must be earned in each class and a passing score must be received on the edTPA in the area of certification being sought (see WV Testing Licensure Directory). Upon successful completion, teacher candidates will then work with WVDE to complete the licensure process.

Individuals accepted to CERT First, may apply coursework to the Master of Education in Teaching degree.