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 of coursework toward a bachelor’s degree in education. After earning the AAT, you can transfer to a Missouri four-year college or university to continue your education and complete your teaching degree.
The program offers flexibility for students who want to substitute teach, work part time or balance other responsibilities while in school. With online course options available, you can choose a learning format that fits your schedule while progressing toward your education goals.
High school students can also earn college credit through dual enrollment, allowing them to get an early start on their college education and prepare for a future career in teaching.
What is the Teacher Education Program at St. Louis Community College?
The teacher education associate degree is designed to help you complete the first two years of a bachelor’s degree in education before transferring to a four-year college or university. The program builds a strong foundation for future teachers while introducing you to the skills, knowledge and expectations needed for a career in education.
You’ll begin exploring how students learn, how classrooms are structured and how effective teachers create supportive learning environments. Coursework helps prepare you for the next step in your education by building the academic foundation needed for a smooth transfer into a teacher preparation program.
In this program, you’ll complete:
- Four core teacher education courses,
- One education elective to explore an area of interest,
- A choice between elementary or secondary education pathways,
- General education courses required for transfer,
Flexible academic plans are available to fit your goals, including full-time, part-time and dual enrollment options. Whether you’re beginning college after high school or preparing for a career change, the teacher education AAT helps you stay on track toward transferring and becoming a licensed teacher.
Transfer to Four-Year Colleges and Universities
The teacher education associate of arts in teaching AAT provides the first two years of coursework toward a bachelor’s degree at a four-year college or university. The program is approved by the state of Missouri and aligns with the Missouri Initial Professional Education Competencies, which outline the knowledge and skills expected of future teachers.
The general education courses included in this program are part of Missouri’s statewide CORE 42 framework, ensuring these courses transfer to public colleges and universities throughout the state. This helps you complete foundational coursework at STLCC before continuing your education at a four-year institution.
STLCC also works closely with partner colleges and universities to maintain transfer agreements and support a smooth transition. These partnerships help ensure your credits apply toward your bachelor’s degree as you continue preparing for a career in education.
Teacher Education Program
- Degree offered: Associate of arts in teaching (AAT)
- 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 $127 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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