Portage College is expanding pathways into the teaching profession with the launch of its new Essentials in Teaching Post-Diploma Certificate program.
Designed to address growing teacher shortages – particularly in the Grade 7 to 12 levels – the new program offers a short and flexible route into secondary education teaching careers for learners across northeastern Alberta.
The certificate program is intended for individuals who already hold a diploma in a related field, a degree, or a journey person certificate, and are interested in transitioning into secondary school teaching Grades 7–12. The program focuses on foundational knowledge and practical skills in planning, instruction, assessment, inclusion, educational psychology, educational technology, professional conduct, and classroom practice.
Learners will be eligible for interim certification after completing the four core courses (including a practicum), but will be required to complete all 10 courses in the program to be eligible for permanent certification.
“The Essentials for Teaching Certificate reflects a responsive, made-in-the-North solution that addresses teacher shortages while valuing the experience and knowledge that already exist within our communities,” said Dr. Stephen Price, President and CEO of Portage College. “This new program offering is our commitment to meeting learners and communities where they are. Whether someone brings a prior degree or deep expertise as a journey person, this pathway creates a practical and supported entry into the classroom while continuing toward full certification.”
Recognizing the realities of today’s learners, courses are designed to be completed online, one at a time; courses are synchronous and held in the evenings, allowing students to continue working while pursuing their studies. The program also includes a supervised teaching practicum of at least six weeks in a school setting, providing students with valuable hands-on classroom experience.
Graduates of the Essentials in Teaching Post-Diploma Certificate will be prepared for specialized teaching roles in Grades 7–12, working within disciplines connected to their previous diploma, degree, or journey person background. In addition, graduates will be eligible to transfer into a recognized Bachelor of Education program to complete their studies.
“The Essentials in Teaching Certificate program reflects an opportunity for those in the trades and other specialized fields to enter the classroom in a short period of time,” said Dr. Donna Feledichuk, Vice President Academic and Research at Portage College. “The new program reflects the provincial teacher shortage and the opportunity for expedited teacher certification. This is a particular challenge for northern and rural Alberta, and the Essentials in Teaching program provides up-and-coming teachers with a flexible way to complete their expedited teacher certification where they are.”
The Essentials in Teaching Post-Diploma Certificate reflects Portage College’s continued commitment to delivering innovative, community-focused programming that supports workforce development and strengthens education across the region.
For more information on this program or all of the programming available at Portage College campus locations across northeast Alberta, visit our website at www.portagecollege.ca