Binghamton's Graduate School was one of the first in the nation to offer a university-wide Certificate of Completion in College Teaching. With the addition of Certificate in Community College Teaching, we are better able to support the professional development of current degree-seeking graduate students who are interested in future faculty positions at 4-year and 2-year higher education institutions. Securing these credentials may be integrated into academic studies at any point in a graduate student's academic career. Broome Community College (BCC) is the initial partner. Other possible community college partners might come from our current relationships.
What is the value of earning such an "add-on" certificate? Such professional development can help you obtain a position at a community college or 4-year liberal arts college; more than 50% of all college students are taught community colleges; and a large portion of faculty at community colleges are near retirement age, requiring community colleges to seek new faculty.
Total credits required: minimum of 12
Course Requirements: GRD 676 is required; and at least one from: GRD 678, 671, 672. Each student's "plan of study" (contract) can be tailored to meet the student's academic and professional goals. The Program Coordinator at the community college and Binghamton University's Graduate School must approve the student's plan of study.
Coursework Details:
The Community College (GRD 676) - 4 credits
Mission of community college, type of governance, financial structure, challenges for community college, student needs, learning styles, developing a learning environment, supplementary support for students, role of advising and related topics. Prerequisites: BA/BS degree.
Instructional Design Basics (GRD 671) - 4 credits
Readings and exercises lead students through process of developing a course using the principles of instructional design. Topics include: What is intelligence? How do your students learn? How does prior learning affect acquisition of new information? How will you use technology and other teaching tools? How will you assess learning? Prerequisites: graduate status, or permission of the instructor.
Fostering Intellectual Character (GRD 672) - 4 credits
Readings and exercises lead students through process of developing a course that fosters intellectual character. Topics include: Who are today's college students? What is "smart"?, Initiating a culture of thinking, Developing thinking routines, Instructor as a model of thinking, Learning to think by talking, Faculty who make a difference. Prerequisites: graduate status, or permission of the instructor.
E-mail Kishan Zuber, Assistant Dean of Admission and Recruitment, to apply for the certificate. She will guide you through the application process.
