Alternative Education Certification (#952)
For the Masters Degree, Alternative Education Concentration (available face-to-face and on-line), click here.
Section 1: What is This?
The Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI) has authorized the Department of Educational Policy and Community Studies (EPCS) to offer an add-on certification in alternative education.
Section 2: Program Philosophy
The school environment is changing. In the Milwaukee area, and around the state, the number of charter and alternative schools are increasing. This means that educators need to have the tools to change with them.
We understand the many demands students face daily. Therefore, we offer flexible course times during the evening and online to fit in your schedules. Through our courses you will gain solid skills that you can apply in an Alternative Education setting.
Section 3: Who Should Enroll?
- Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI) licensed educators working in an alternative setting where a 952 add-on license is required
- Any educator looking to gain an understanding of at-risk students and alternative education settings
- Any person who would like to learn more about alternative education
Section 4: Program Features
- Completion, for already certified teachers, results in a Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI) granted 952 add-on certification
- Courses are offered fully online, face-to-face, or in blended formats
- Online course participants have the opportunity to interact with educators from around the state
- Courses can be taken concurrently and finished in as little as one semester
- Practical experience in Alternative Schools incorporated
- Courses taught by faculty with experience in Alternative Schools
Section 5: Requirements for Certification
In order to receive this certification, students must complete ED POL 534: Students At Risk (
sample syllabus) and ED POL 535: Educating At-Risk Students (
sample syllabus) with a B- or better and complete a mini-portfolio which is embedded in the two courses.
Section 6: How Do I Apply? Typically there are four kinds of students that take these courses. Please identify under which category you fit and follow the steps indicated.
I am a licensed teacher and want to get my #952 add-on license to teach in an alternative education setting.
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Generally within 10 days of submission you will be notified by mail when you have been admitted as a non-degree seeking Special Student.
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In your admissions letter you will receive an ePanther ID that you will need to register for classes. As classes tend to fill quickly please follow the directions in your admissions letter as soon as you receive it and register for classes on the opening date of the enrollment period.
*Note: University Special Students are non-degree seeking students and are typically not eligible for financial aid. There is no application fee for a non-degree seeking University Special Student.
I am a licensed teacher and want to get my 952 license while working towards an accredited master's degree.
- You will have to apply to the graduate school for admissions into the master's program of your choice.
- After accepted you may take the two courses as part of your program.
I am currently an enrolled student at UWM and want to take these courses to have a better understanding of alternative education settings.
- Log into your PAWS account to view your enrollment dates.
- After the opening day of your enrollment period you may register for the courses.
I am not an enrolled student at UWM and do not hold a teaching license, but want to take these courses to have a better understanding of alternative education settings.
- If you are not currently enrolled at UWM, you must apply before being able to register and take courses. If you do not wish to pursue a degree you may register as a University Special Student. You may follow the same steps as the first category in this section.
Section 6: How Do I Know When the Courses Will Be Offered?For the most up-to-date schedule of classes please click
here.
Section 7: Tuition and Fees
Please visit the Tuition and Fees website for the most up-to-date listings. Remember, at times, distance learning courses are subject to additional fees. Therefore, it is always best to check the Schedule of Classes to make sure of any extra fees that might be correlated to the class you want to take. *Please note that online courses can be taken by out-of-state students for in-state tuition.
After registering for the classes you want to take, we recommend that you also review your Financial Account information to verify the cost of your classes and when your payment is due. Be sure to make yourself aware of when fees are due so you will not be dropped from the classes you registered for.
If at any time you have questions about the fees you were charged you may contact the Bursar's Office on:
- Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays 8:00am-4:30pm
- Tuesdays and Thursdays 9:00am-4:30pm
They can be reached by phone at 414-229-4914 or by email at bursar@bfs.uwm.edu.
Section 8: What Should I Do if I Have Further Questions?Check out our Alternative Education Certification Program Handbook. It includes further information on program delivery, the application process, requirements, and frequently asked questions (FAQs). You could also refer to the following links to find out more about our Alternative Education Certification program:
If you have additional questions please contact:
