Frequently Asked Questions
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Who is eligible to enroll in the HCDE Teacher ACP?
Applicants 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?
Applications are taken during spring and summer. Preservice courses begin in the fall.
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How can I get started?
See the Teacher Certification Program homepage for details.
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What is included in the total program cost?
- Transcript 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 your internship year
- Administrative support from admissions through final certification
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Are there other expenses associated with the certification process?
Yes. See the Teacher Program Fees page for details.
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When does the program begin?
Cohort cycles start in the fall and spring. For the latest information, visit the Teacher Certification Program homepage or email CES@hcde-texas.org.
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What is the deadline for applying?
The deadline to apply is one month prior to the beginning of the preservice courses.
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Where will the classes meet?
Classes are online over Zoom.
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What are the hours for Zoom classes?
Times for virtual classes are:
- 6–9 p.m. weeknights
- 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Saturdays
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How many courses do I need to complete?
The 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?
Typically, 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?
You 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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Where can I get information about the TExES?
Visit the Texas Education Certification Examination Program website for more details.
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When do I get an intern certificate?
You must meet eligibility requirements 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?
Yes. 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.
Contact Us
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Center for Educator Success
A division of the Harris County Department of Education
6300 Irvington Blvd.
Houston, TX 77022
Phone: 713-694-6300
Email