Begin Your Path in Teacher Education with an Associate Degree
St. Louis Community College's associate of arts in teaching (AAT) is a transfer program designed to help you complete the first two years toward a bachelor’s degree in education. After earning the AAT, you can transfer to a Missouri four-year college or university to finish your teaching degree.
The program offers flexibility for students who want to substitute teach or work part time while in school. High school students may also earn college credit through dual enrollment, helping them get a head start on their education goals.
What is the Teacher Education Program at St. Louis Community College?
The teacher education AAT is designed to help you complete the first two years of a bachelor’s degree in education. The program focuses on building a strong foundation for future teachers before transferring to a four-year college or university.
In this program, you’ll begin exploring how students learn, how classrooms are structured and what it means to teach responsibly and effectively. You’ll also start preparing for the expectations of a four-year education program, making your transition smoother when you transfer.
Your coursework includes:
- Four core teacher education courses
- One education elective to explore a specific area of interest
- A choice between elementary or secondary education pathways
- General education courses required for transfer
Multiple academic plans provide flexible options for students, including:
No matter your path, the goal is the same: to prepare you for a successful transfer and continued study toward becoming a licensed teacher.
Transfer to Four-Year Colleges and Universities
This program provides students with the first two years of study toward a bachelor’s degree at a four-year college or university. It is accredited by the state of Missouri.
In addition, this program meets the Missouri Initial Professional Education Competencies (MIPEC) established for pre-service teachers in the state of Missouri.
The general education courses included in this program are a part of Missouri's statewide CORE 42 framework. This guarantees that the general education courses you complete are fully transferable to all public colleges and universities across the state.
To make transferring even smoother, STLCC works closely with partner colleges and universities to keep transfer agreements up to date, helping ensure your credits are recognized and accepted when you continue your education.
Teacher Education Program
- Degree offered: Associate of arts in teaching
- Locations: Florissant Valley, Forest Park, Meramec, Wildwood, Online
- Hours to complete: 62
- Program contact email: Teaching@stlcc.edu
- Accreditation: Fully accredited by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education
Tuition for district residents is $122 per credit hour for in-district students. Find out more about our straightforward and low-cost tuition structure.
Admission Requirements
An associate of arts in teaching (AAT) degree requires:
- a cumulative G.P.A. of 2.75
Prior to attending the teaching observation assignment, students may be required to:
- Submit a negative TB test
- Undergo a background check and drug screen through a college-approved background screening company prior to the beginning of the course enrollment. Students not passing the criminal background check and/or drug screen may be prohibited from participating in the required observation assignment. Neglecting to fulfill the 36 hours of classroom observations will lead to an incomplete grade for the course.
Attending outside course work off campus is required for passing the program.
Why You Should Choose STLCC's Teacher Education Program
Flexibility
Take classes on any of our four campuses during the day, evening, or online. We offer flexibility for students who want to substitute teach or work part-time in schools.
Parallel Programming
AAT curriculum consists of five core courses that are required of all teachers. This is the same curriculum you would take in your first two years at a traditional four-year university.
Experienced Faculty
Our faculty bring valuable real-life classroom experience. Their firsthand experience working in schools helps you gain insights and a deeper understanding of the teaching profession.
Small Class Size
Small class sizes will help you thrive in a more intimate learning environment. Instructors provide personalized support, guidance and hands-on learning opportunities.
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