UNM graduates walking at their convocation

University of New Mexico

About

The University of New Mexico College of Education and Human Sciences prepares teachers, counselors, and education leaders to serve learners across New Mexico and beyond. As the state’s flagship college of education, UNM combines strong academic preparation with real classroom experience, close advising, and faculty-led research that responds to today’s educational needs. You’ll build deep content knowledge, practical teaching skill, and the professional confidence to lead with care, cultural responsiveness, and integrity.

College or University
Albuquerque

Institution Links

As New Mexico’s flagship college of education, UNM COEHS is nationally recognized for educator preparation, innovative teacher residencies, and research that strengthens learning across diverse communities:

New Mexico’s flagship college of education: UNM COEHS prepares educators and human sciences professionals to serve communities across the state, with deep district partnerships and a strong pipeline into New Mexico classrooms.
National award for UNM’s teacher residency partnership (ATRP): Billy G. Dixon Distinguished Program in Teacher Education Award (Association of Teacher Educators), 2026.
COEHS faculty recognition: Shawn Secatero selected for a national multicultural teaching award (announced January 22, 2026).
COEHS leader honored by UNM Alumni Association: Marjori Krebs received the Bernard S. Rodey Award (2026 award recipients announcement, February 11, 2026).
Major federal award supporting special education teacher preparation: U.S. Department of Education (OSEP) award to launch UNM’s E3 Program for new special education teachers (announced October 13, 2025).
National recognition for COEHS online graduate education programs (U.S. News-related COEHS feature).
National awards for COEHS faculty: UNM Newsroom feature highlighting national recognitions for two COEHS Special Education faculty members (July 7, 2023).
National leadership/service award in educational administration: Dr. Allison M. Borden received UCEA’s Hanne Mawhinney Distinguished Service Award (2020).
Presidential-level teaching excellence recognition connected to COEHS doctoral study: Tara Palomares received the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST).

Key Achievements of UNM's Teacher Education Program

18 percent of new teachers in New Mexico in 2024 graduated from UNM.
Pioneered Teacher Residencies in New Mexico and received the Billy G. Dixon Distinguished Program in Teacher Education Award.
Ranked 18th in the U.S. for graduating Hispanic education students.
A national leader in teaching the science of reading.

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University of New Mexico

Programs

Certification-only

Alternative Teacher Licensure

Hybrid
Program Format

Program Info

Imagine a career where you give back every day, make a lasting impact and build a stronger community. Teaching offers all that and more—including competitive salaries, job stability and a pension for your future!
The University of New Mexico has alternative pathways to teacher licensure (called Graduate Certificates), tailored for students like you to jumpstart your teaching career. Whether you’re passionate about guiding young minds in elementary school, welcoming middle and high schoolers to subjects like math, science or language arts, you’ll get support every step of the way. You’ll gain hands-on experience, mentorship, and even funding opportunities—including scholarships and paid residencies—to make this journey affordable and rewarding. This is your chance to lead, inspire, and make an impact.

Learn more about teaching grades K- 8 with the elementary education program.
Learn more about teaching grades 7- 12 with the secondary education program.

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Application Fee & Annual Tuition

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

$10,800
In State Tuition
$29,715
Out of State Tuition
$60
Application Fee

Ways to Lower Your Costs

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

Amount

Description

For more information visit:Financial Aid Office

Licensure Areas

Elementary Education K-8
English Language Arts 7-12
Mathematics 7-12
Science 7-12
Social Studies 7-12
World Languages 7-12

Program Overview

A post-baccalaureate pathway using graduate certificate programs to support teacher certification and focused specialization. Programs are designed to complement an existing career or open doors to new opportunities through flexible, rigorous coursework, helping candidates qualify for New Mexico educator licensure issued by the state.

Program Hallmarks

• Flexible, rigorous graduate-level coursework • Designed for anyone interested in becoming a teacher and obtaining an elementary or secondary teaching license • Teacher licensure pathways available in Elementary Education (K–8) and Secondary Education (7–12) • Grounded in research, practice, and partnerships that drive impact in New Mexico

Get Started

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

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