Become an Elementary School Teacher

Designed For

Longhorns in Residence prepares teachers to work with elementary-aged students across core subject areas while developing the knowledge, skills and confidence needed to lead classrooms.

This pathway is designed for individuals who hold a bachelor’s degree and want to become certified elementary school teachers in Texas.

Career Opportunities

Graduates are prepared for positions including:

  • Elementary School Teacher (EC-6)
  • ESL-Certified Elementary Teacher
  • Instructional Support Teacher
  • Elementary Intervention Teacher
  • Elementary School Teacher (EC-6)
  • ESL-Certified Elementary Teacher
  • Instructional Support Teacher
  • Elementary Intervention Teacher

Program Overview

The EC-6 Generalist program combines UT Austin coursework with a yearlong residency experience in a partner school district. You will build expertise in literacy, mathematics, science and social studies instruction while learning effective strategies to support diverse learners. Throughout the residency year, you’ll work alongside experienced educators and receive coaching from both district partners and UT Austin faculty.

What You’ll Learn

Certification Recommendation

Upon successful completion of the program and certification requirements, candidates will be recommended for Early Childhood-Grade 6 Certification with ESL Supplemental Certification.

Coursework and Schedule

Online coursework, which will include two classes per semester during the summer, fall and spring terms, will be announced soon.

Summer

Residency Experience

  • Complete 50 hours of Field-Based Experience and 60 hours of Independent Learning Modules
  • Resident Orientation with assigned district (late July/early August)

Fall

Teacher Certification Activities

  • Science of Teaching Reading preparation and exam

Residency Experience

  • Four days per week in the classroom
  • One day per week for UT coursework

Spring

Teacher Certification Activities

  • TExES Core subjects (EC-6) prep and exam
  • English as a Second Language exam

Residency Experience

  • Four days per week in the classroom
  • One day per week for UT coursework

Information Sessions

We encourage you to attend an information session before applying. Please sign up to receive program updates, including information session details.

Oct. 19 – 5:30 pm (CST)

Nov. 03 – 12:00 pm (CST)

Dec. 09 – 5:30 pm (CST)

Jan. 11 – 12:00 pm (CST)

Jan. 26 – 15:30 pm (CST)

Feb. 03 – 5:30 pm (CST)

Tuition and Financial Aid 

Tuition for the Longhorns in Residence program is the same as the College of Education’s graduate tuition rates. The program consists of 18 total credit hours, taken as six credit hours per semester over three semesters. You can estimate your costs using the tuition calculator. 

The Longhorns in Residence program is eligible for federal financial aid. The College of Education also has scholarship opportunities. 
Additionally, partner school districts will pay teacher residents at least $20,000 for the August through May assignment. 

Contact Us

Headshot of Sarah Johnson, Project Manager-Teacher Education Residency Programs.

Sarah Johnson

Project Manager-Teacher Education Residency Programs