Approximate tuition cost by Alternative Licensure Program*

*Additional fees may apply. Check with your program for more details.

This fast-tracked licensure pathway is designed for individuals already working as full-time educators who need to earn certification while teaching.     
Duration: Two years
Placement: You will be the teacher of record from day one

You will begin as the teacher of record in your own classrooms while completing foundational coursework.

• Focus areas include classroom management, reading, math and culturally responsive teaching strategies.
• Weekly mentor support and instructional coaching ensure you develop effective teaching strategies while managing a classroom.

Your coursework deepens in meeting the needs of every student, assessment-driven teaching, and special education teaching strategies. 

• You will refine your lesson planning, student engagement techniques and data-driven decision-making.
• Mentorship and faculty coaching continue, helping you transition into a fully licensed educator.
• By the end of year two, you will earn your New Mexico Level I Teaching License.

This gradual, hands-on approach provides a strong foundation for new educators, ensuring you enter the classroom fully prepared while receiving structured support throughout your training.

Duration: Three years

Placement: Co-teacher in year one, teacher of record in years two and three

Stipend: $35,000 in year one

You will co-teach alongside an experienced mentor teacher, gaining immersive, hands-on experience before leading your own classroom.

• Coursework focuses on reading, culturally responsive teaching, math and student engagement.
• You will receive intensive mentoring and feedback while gradually increasing your classroom leadership.

You will become the teacher of record in your own classroom while continuing coursework.

• Ongoing mentoring and faculty coaching ensure you develop effective assessment practices and classroom leadership skills and meet the needs of all students. 
• You will begin focusing on your endorsement specialization, choosing either TESOL or gifted education to meet district needs.

You will refine your instructional practice through advanced coursework and professional development.

• Final mentoring and coaching sessions ensure readiness for full Level I licensure.
• By the end of year three, you will graduate fully licensed and prepared for long-term classroom success. 

San Juan College’s Alternative Licensure Program offers an immediate, immersive classroom experience, allowing you to start as the teacher of record from day one.
The Teacher Residency Program takes a gradual, hands-on approach, helping you build confidence and competence before you lead your own classroom independently.

You will be prepared to teach students from all backgrounds, including those who live in rural areas, are Indigenous, Hispanic, bilingual, multilingual, need special education (including gifted education) and more. 

You will receive mentoring and coaching in the following ways: 

• Weekly feedback from mentors and monthly coaching from faculty.
• Participation in peer learning communities for shared support and strategy exchange.
• Continued mentorship and coaching as you begin your career. 
• Access to professional development workshops and the alum membership network. 

These efforts prepare you to meet New Mexico’s educator needs:

• Local & tribal partnerships
• A culturally responsive curriculum that uses effective, research-based teaching practices is updated based on feedback.
• The advisory committee reviews ongoing feedback from students for improvements.
• Professional development opportunities for alums.