Program highlights
- Designed for working educators. A fully online, self-paced format allows you to balance coursework with full-time teaching responsibilities.
- Competency-based curriculum. Coursework focuses on demonstrated mastery of instructional practice, classroom management, assessment design and student engagement.
- Supports Ohio licensure requirements. Completes the coursework component required for teachers pursuing the Ohio Professional Teacher License through the Alternative Resident Educator pathway.
- Practice-focused learning. Students strengthen skills in classroom procedures, communication, accommodations for diverse learners and effective instructional strategies.
- Pathway to graduate study. Certificate coursework may be applicable toward a Master of Education degree at BGSU, depending on program requirements.
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Career opportunities
Graduates of the alternative resident educator graduate certificate are prepared to continue and advance careers in K-12 education, including:
- Intervention specialist or 4th-12th grade subject-area teacher
- Alternative resident educator pursuing the Ohio Professional Teacher License
- Educators seeking long-term licensure stability and professional growth
This certificate supports teachers already employed in Ohio schools by strengthening instructional practice and meeting licensure-related coursework expectations.
Curriculum
The alternative resident educator graduate certificate features a competency-based curriculum focused on effective classroom practice for working educators. Online coursework emphasizes instructional strategies that support student learning, engagement and inclusive classroom environments.
Sample courses
- Professional Responsibilities
- Student Development and Learning
- Planning and Preparing Instruction
- Classroom Management
- Designing and Implementing Assessments
- Instruction
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BGSU is one of only a handful of universities in the nation — and the only one in Ohio — to earn the Quality Matters Online Learner Support certificate for all of our online programs. This recognition reflects our commitment to providing the critical support and academic services that online students need to succeed.
The alternative resident educator graduate certificate is a program in the College of Education and Human Development.
Updated: 02/23/2026 09:00AM