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Central New Mexico Community College

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About

Central New Mexico Community College (CNM) is a public, Hispanic- and Native-serving institution in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Its School of Education offers comprehensive, affordable pathways for individuals pursuing careers in teaching. 

If you're just starting college, the Teacher Education program includes Associate of Arts degrees in elementary, secondary and special education, designed to transfer seamlessly into four-year teacher preparation programs. 

If you already have a bachelor’s degree, CNM offers an Alternative Teacher Licensure Program leading to your initial New Mexico state teaching license. 
 
Hands-on classroom experiences, dedicated faculty and strong partnerships with school districts prepare you to make an immediate impact in your community. As the largest community college in the state, CNM offers affordable, high-quality education with a focus on workforce development and career readiness. CNM serves a vibrant, diverse student population, including first-generation college students, adult learners and individuals who reflect the rich cultural landscape of New Mexico. 

  • College or University
  • Albuquerque, NM

Institution Links

  • Admissions
  • Financial Aid Office
  • Online Application
Central New Mexico Community College Logo

Certification-only

Alternative Teacher Licensure Program

  • From 12 to 20 months

    Program Duration

  • In-person

    Program Format

  • Pre-Test Required

    No

Relevant Links

Program Info

The Alternative Teacher Licensure Program is designed for individuals with a bachelor’s degree who are ready to transition into teaching. It is ideal for career changers or community members who are passionate about making a positive impact in education and eager to bring their diverse experiences into the classroom. This program leads to your initial New Mexico state teaching license.
You will benefit from flexible, hands-on pathways tailored to your needs. You can choose to complete your program as: 

  • A one-semester student teacher.
  • A paid resident, co-teaching for a full school year alongside an experienced educator.
  • A teacher of record leading your own classroom.

Key features of the Alternative Teacher Licensure Program: 

  • Partnerships with local school districts for networking and hands-on experience
  • Accredited by the New Mexico Public Education Department
  • Prepares you with skills, experience and credentials
  • Ongoing support for a successful teaching career

Upcoming Deadlines

  • Deadlines

    Program Start

  • Jul. 01, 2025

    Fall
  • Oct. 01, 2025

    Spring
  • Mar. 01, 2026

    Summer
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Application Fee & Annual Tuition

Learn how to get$100 Back
and apply for a$1000 Scholarship

  • $1,858

    In State Tuition

  • $7,654

    Out of State Tuition

  • $0

    Application Fee

Ways to Lower Your Costs

Students at Central New Mexico Community College have reduced the cost of their program using these methods. Check with Central New Mexico Community College to see if you can, too!

Amount
Description

Varies

Grants, Stipends, Scholarships

 As a student in the Alternative Teacher Licensure Program, you may be eligible for federal Pell grants. Learn more in TEACH New Mexico’s Finances Guide

For more information visit:Financial Aid Office

Certifications

Early Childhood Pre-K-3
Elementary K-8
English Language Arts 6-12
General Science 6-12
Mathematics 6-12
Social Studies 6-12
Spanish 6-12
Special Education Pre-K-12

Get Started

Own the application process. Meet with a career advisor today to make a plan for how you will apply.