FAQs

If I join the aggieTEACH Program am I obligated to teach? I would like to pursue teaching certification, but I don't know if I will commit to teaching upon graduation.

No, there is no teaching obligation for students who complete the aggieTEACH program UNLESS you accept a scholarship or grant that states a teaching obligation is required.

Who can join the aggieTEACH Program?
Students who have more than 12 college credit hours but less than 75 college credit hours and who are majoring in a mathematics or science related area are eligible to join the aggieTEACH program. We have accepted students pursuing degrees in biology, mathematics, physics, chemistry, geology, meteorology, environmental sciences, wildlife and fisheries, and biomedical sciences. Additional majors maybe possible, these are a list of our most popular majors. Is there a certain GPR required to be a part of the aggieTEACH Program?

Yes, the minimum GPR for aggieTEACH is 2.5 overall GPR and 2.5 GPR in your field plan. Students who fall below the 2.5 overall GPR minimum requirement are given one-semester to raise their GPR to the 2.5 minimum requirement. Students who do not have at least a 2.5 GPR in their teaching field plan cannot take their state certification exams.

Do I have to join aggieTEACH as a freshman?

No, you do not have to join aggieTEACH as a freshman; however, the aggieTEACH Program is designed for students to earn their bachelor's degree and teacher certification in 4 years with no additional semesters. If you do not decide until later that you would like to teach, there may be additional courses required that will extend your undergraduate graduation date.

Do I have to major in Biology, Chemistry, Math or Physics?

No. As long as your degree is compatible with secondary certification in math or science then you may be eligible for aggieTEACH. Please contact Jenn Whitfield (jwhitfld@tamu.edu) to determine if your degree is compatible or not.

What if I'm not sure I want to be a teacher but want to keep my options open or have certification as a "back-up"?

Then the aggieTEACH Program is perfect for you! You will graduate with a BA or BS in your field (depending on your major) AND teacher certification. Upon graduation, you can choose to pursue a teaching position or pursue other positions related to your degree. Obtaining your teaching certificate will widen your career options and as long as you maintain a valid certificate (e.g., renew every 5 years), you can keep teaching as a career option.

For how long is my Texas Teaching Certification valid?
A standard Texas Teaching Certification is valid for 5 years. To renew your certificate you must show proof of 150 clock hours of Continuing Professional Education (CPE).

then choose to either teach or pursue another profession with your degree. Ultimately, obtianint your teaching certificaiton as an undergraduate will give you more job opportunites after graduation.