There is a teacher shortage in the State of Michigan.

The entire state of Michigan experienced a 44% increase in teacher retirement in 2020, raising concern for the level of teacher shortage in the state. As we fight to preserve and expand educational practices in the Upper Peninsula amidst a global pandemic, we need your help! 

 

Program Overview

If you...

  • Hold a bachelor’s degree;
  • Would like to use your degree and diverse life experiences to make a positive impact on youth and young adults; 
  • Are looking to pursue a career in secondary education;
  • Are a paraprofessional or non-certificated substitute teacher who serves as a 'Teacher of Record' in a secondary school setting;

..the STEP UP path could be for you!

With the STEP UP program, students take graduate-level courses that lead to both a master’s degree and secondary teaching licensure (grades 6-12 in Michigan). The curriculum is flexible, working with a schedule of courses that will supplement your existing undergraduate degree coursework. During the application process, you will meet with an adviser to discuss how the program can be customized to meet your professional goals.

Program Details

  • Acceptance will be conditional upon an interview.
  • Each student must commit to a mentor and gain support from a K-12 administrator, who will work to help guide you through the program successfully.
  • The program is 4-5 semesters to completion, which includes an internship and a summer session.
  • There is a 87% completion rate for those who have gone through this program in the past at NMU.

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Ben Platt Testimonial

Benjamin Platt, 2019 STEP UP graduate

Teacher, Gwinn Middle School

 

"The STEP UP program was an opportunity that I couldn't pass up. It took a ton of work. I was up late and up early...but all along I had a cohort of peers who were in much the same situation. At the end of the program I was well on my way to my master's. I am super grateful for the opportunity to improve my teaching knowledge and style, and prove to myself that I had it in me to accomplish this feat."

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Sara P Testimonial

Sara Peterson, 20-21 Student Teacher of the Year

Teacher, Escanaba Area Public Schools

 

"Student teaching was the most rewarding career opportunity I had while at NMU. Working with a mentor teacher, at a school that supports their own teachers, as well as aspiring teachers, gave me the footing I needed to feel confident in taking on my very own classroom this fall. I couldn’t imagine teaching anywhere but the Upper Peninsula. We truly have the most supportive communities. Thank you NMU!"

Frequently Asked Questions

Teachable degrees are typically subjects that are taught in 6-12 grades. Examples of such degrees include English, Spanish, Math, Biology, etc. For specific questions about whether or not your degree is ‘teachable,’ please contact a program representative. 

The majority of the courses will be online, but this will vary depending on your field of study and custom curriculum plan. When you meet with a program adviser, you will learn more.

Students can begin the program at the beginning of Northern’s fall, winter or summer semesters. We offer rolling admissions to the program to fit your unique needs. 

The program seeks guidance and input from participants for student teaching internship placement. Our goal is to work to secure a placement that has a high likelihood of the student being hired at that location. 

Yes. Adult learners oftentimes serve as substitute teachers or coaches in a school setting. We’re also willing to consider paid school internships as a part of your curriculum. You can discuss your unique sitution with your program adviser to learn more. 

NMU is committed to making tuition affordable, offering the second lowest graduate school tuition in the State of Michigan. You can see our current tuition and fees here on our website. 

Contact Information

Joseph Lubig
Associate Dean for Teacher Education and Director of Education
Northern Michigan University