The following methods are used as measures of academic aptitude and achievement for selection and diagnosis of strengths and needs of potential teacher education candidates:

1. GPA (GPA): GPAs will be calculated by the Chair of the School of Education by using institutional transcripts. A 3.0 GPA is required in communication courses (Comp I, Comp II and Speech), and an overall GPA of 2.5 in at least twenty-seven (27) semester hours of the general education coursework.

2. ACT: A composite score of at least 19 on the ACT is required. All students who desire consideration for acceptance into Teacher Education must take the ACT or have a Bachelor Degree. There is no limit to the number of times the student may take the ACT.

3. Utilization of Program Tests: The Praxis I Test is used to provide a standardized measure of knowledge and skills in the areas of reading, mathematics, and writing which are considered essential for successful completion of the Teacher Education Program. School of Education requirements may be adjusted periodically to comply with changing state requirements. A candidate may repeat any part of the test that the candidate did not pass. A scheduled consultation with the Head of Teacher Education is required if the candidate does not pass all areas of the Praxis I Test in two attempts. A score of 21 or greater on the ACT or a Bachelor’s Degree will allow the student to circumvent Praxis I.

4. Essays: Candidates must submit two essays to be reviewed by faculty: “The Conceptual Framework,” and “My Philosophy of Education.” The essays will be reviewed by faculty. If not approved by faculty, the candidate must resubmit the essay or essays.

5. Moral Character Statement: Candidates must sign a statement of Good Moral Character as defined in Section 3319.30 of the Ohio Revised Code. This statement alerts the candidate to the fact that teachers must be of good moral character. Before a student receives admission to the School of Education or a licensure in teacher education, the student must submit fingerprints for a criminal background check. No person may receive a teacher license that does not have a clear BCI & FBI Check. All questions regarding convictions need to be addressed to the Office of Professional Conduct at the Ohio Department of Education.

6. Candidates enrolled in any courses with field experience must complete the following: The candidate must have a background check (BCI) with clear results. Clearance of BCI is required for Ohio Dept. of Education licensure, but does not guarantee employment clearance. BCI check is available through the Campus Bookstore.

7. Candidates must have a current, negative TB test. TB tests are available through Health Services.