Preparing Future Faculty Certification

Professional Development

Dive into a realm of professional growth and development tailored for graduate students eager to excel in postsecondary teaching and learning. From dynamic micro-credentialing courses to hands-on observation of faculty instruction, this program immerses you in evidence-based practices, empowering you to shape the future of education. InSPIRE, in collaboration with the UTEP Graduate School, is pleased to invite you to participate in this new campus initiative.
The Preparing Future Faculty (PFF) program can be completed in as little as one academic year (9 months) and at no cost to you.

Individuals who join the program will have an opportunity to learn about and reflect on evidence-based practices for advancing undergraduate student learning and success through completion of the following milestones, which culminates in the awarding of a certificate of completion:

Your choice of micro-credential course on active learning or learner-centered classroom environments, offered by the Association of College & University Educators (ACUE).
Observation of three (3) undergraduate and/or graduate classes, with targeted reflection.
Attendance at a total of five (5) or moreseminars/workshops/webinars sponsored by InSPIRE or hosted by an external entity focused on college teaching and learning.
At least five (5) meetings with a postsecondary teaching and learning mentor that you identify.
Participation in the teaching philosophy retreat.

The only requirement that must be done in Fall 2024 is completion of the ACUE micro-credentialing course - as this schedule is set by ACUE. All other requirements can be completed at your own convenience prior to graduation.

Applications are now being accepted for the Fall 2024 semester. To apply, please complete the following form no later than Monday, Sept. 2nd. Please note that a letter of support is needed from your primary research advisor/mentor as part of the application process, and you can find a copy of the application form prompts here.

Participants will be added to a Blackboard shell specifically created for the PFF program, which is where they will upload any required documents and can track progress toward program completion.

Suggested timeline of events:

Fall 2024

Completion of ACUE Promoting Active Learning or Creating an Inclusive and Supportive Learning Environment micro-credentials.
Attendance at a minimum of three (3) InSPIRE seminars/workshops or publicly-available webinars on college teaching and learning, with an open reflection (500 words or less) about the impact of the seminar/workshop/webinar on your own professional growth as an educator.
Identification of a teaching/learning mentor, who you must meet with twice beyond the initial point of contact.

Spring 2025

Meeting with your teaching/learning mentor at least three (3) times.
Observation of three (3) undergraduate and/or graduate classes, with open reflection.
Attendance at a minimum of two (2) InSPIRE seminars/workshops or publicly-available webinars on college teaching and learning, with open reflection (500 words or less) about the impact of the seminar/workshop/webinar on your own professional growth as an educator.
Participation in a teaching philosophy retreat.

Please do not hesitate to reach out to Elena Bitner, Instructional Developer at UTEP InSPIRE: ecbitner@utep.edu with any questions or concerns. We look forward to welcoming you into the program!