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New Mexico Highlands University

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About

New Mexico Highlands University is dedicated to offering accessible, high-quality education to all communities. With a strong focus on cultural responsiveness and community engagement, the University fosters a supportive learning environment where relationships and mentorship are key. Known for its affordability and student success, New Mexico Highlands University prepares you to make a meaningful impact.

The Alternative Teacher Certification Program provides a flexible, one-year pathway to initial New Mexico teacher licensure for:

  • Career changers
  • Paraprofessionals 
  • Long-term substitutes

With personalized support and a cohort-based structure, this program ensures you are well-prepared for the classroom. You can also earn a master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction with just six additional courses.

  • College or University
  • Las Vegas, NM

Institution Links

  • Admissions
  • Financial Aid Office
  • Online Application
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Certification-only

Alternative Teacher Certification Program

  • 10 months

    Program Duration

  • Online

    Program Format

  • Pre-Test Required

    No

Relevant Links

Program

Program Info

Great teachers come from all backgrounds. Whether you're a paraprofessional, career changer or long-term substitute, the flexible, supportive Alternative Teacher Certification Program helps you earn your license while teaching.

What sets this program apart? Strong mentorship, a tight-knit cohort and personalized advising ensure you're never on this journey alone. Coursework is practical and culturally responsive, equipping you to create a welcoming, engaging classroom for all learners. All coursework is virtual and asynchronous (a.k.a. on your own schedule).

Designed for working professionals, the Alternative Teacher Certification Program lets you apply learning in real-time while receiving expert guidance. After licensure, you can earn a master's degree in Curriculum and Instruction with just six more courses.

New Mexico Highlands University isn't just preparing teachers—it's empowering you to lead and make an impact in your community.

Upcoming Deadlines

  • Deadlines

    Program Start

  • Rolling Deadline

    Fall

  • Rolling Deadline

    Spring

Get Deadline Reminders

Ways to Lower Your Costs

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

Amount
Description

Varies

Grants, Stipends, Scholarships

The Teacher Affordability Scholarship is available to all students each semester. The award amount varies. Learn more. 

For more information visit:Financial Aid Office

Certifications

Elementary K-8
General 6-12
Special Education Pre-K-12

Stats

Gender

  • Male

  • Female

    19%

    81%

Ethnicity

  • American Indian or Alaskan Native

  • Asian

  • Black

  • Hispanic/Latino

  • Native Hawaiian/Other Pacific Islander

  • White

  • Two or more races

    7%

    0%

    0%

    56%

    0%

    35%

    1%

Get Started

Dig deeper. Visit New Mexico Highlands University's website to learn more and apply.

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