- Harris County Department of Education
- For Teachers
- Teacher Certification
- Teacher Program FAQs
Center for Educator Success
Teacher Program FAQs
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Who is eligible to enroll in the HCDE Teacher ACP?
Posted by: HCDE ECA StaffApplicants who have earned at least an undergraduate degree from an accredited university may apply. Additional requirements may be found on the Teacher Program Certification landing page.
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When can I enroll in the HCDE Teacher ACP?
Posted by: HCDE ECA StaffApplications are taken during spring and summer. Preservice courses being in th fall.
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What is included in the Total Program cost?
Posted by: HCDE ECA StaffTranscript Review
All materials, textbooks, and resources
All certification coursework (300+ contact hours)
Workshops on test-taking tips, interviewing techniques, and resume writing
Test preparation sessions and practice exams
Supervision during pre-service field observations
Assistance with job placement
Field supervision and classroom support during internship year
Administrative support from admissions through final certification -
Are there other expenses associated with the certification process?
Posted by: HCDE ECA StaffYes, in addition to program costs, there are external costs (payments to testing company, TEA, district, etc.).
Other External Costs Associated with Teacher Certification Process:TEA Technology Fee - $35
Texas Intern /Probationary Certificate - $78
Fingerprinting Fee (approximately) - $49
Fee for each required TExES exam - $116
Teacher standard certificate - $78 -
When does the program begin?
Posted by: HCDE ECA StaffCohort cycles start in the Fall and Spring. For he latest information, email hcdeacp@hcde-texas.org
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What is the deadline for applying?
Posted by: HCDE ECA StaffOne month prior the beginning of the preservice courses being.
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What are the hours for Zoom classes?
Posted by: HCDE ECA Staff6–9 p.m. weeknights
8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Saturdays -
How many courses do I need to complete?
Posted by: HCDE ECA StaffThe state requirement is a minimum of 300 contact hours. Depending on your certification area, you will complete between 337 and 385 contact hours of coursework.
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How long does it take to complete the certification program?
Posted by: HCDE ECA StaffTypically, it takes 17 to 21 months to complete the certification process. This includes one full year of teaching as a teacher of record in your certification field.
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When will I take the TExES exam?
Posted by: HCDE ECA StaffYou will take the TExES content exam(s) in your field during the pre-service phase. Permission to test will be issued by the Director based on demonstration of readiness to test. You will wait to take the TExES PPR EC-12 exam until the Spring semester of your internship year.
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When do I get an intern certificate?
Posted by: HCDE ECA StaffYou must meet eligibility requirements (see no. 18) to accept a job offer and get an intern certificate.
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Do I have to pass the state exam before I get an intern certificate?
Posted by: HCDE ECA StaffYes. In addition to passing your TExES content exam(s), you will also need to complete 30 hours of field observations and at least 150 hours of certification coursework before you are eligible to accept a job offer.
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For additional issues or questions, please contact us.
Posted by: HCDE ECA Staff