Frequently Asked Questions
When does the program begin and end?
The full-time Master in Teaching Program lasts approximately 13 months. The program begins in June and is completed the following June.
When are applications due?
Priority applications are due in February. All other applications are due May 1, unless program capacity has been reached prior to that date. If space allows, strong applications may be considered after this time. We recommend that you submit your application materials as soon as possible. We begin reviewing applications and interviewing as early as October.
What will my endorsement cover?
Elementary Education
Endorsements in elementary education certifies you to teach in grades K-8. During the MIT program your student teaching is done in a self-contained elementary classroom (K-5), so your Whitworth student-teaching experience would not take place at a middle school.
Secondary Education
This endorsement can cover grades 5-12; student teaching at Whitworth will be done in a 6-12 grade-level classroom.
What exams do I need to take?
There are two types of exams required for all teachers in Washington state: a basic-skills test and an endorsement-area content exam.
Basic-Skills Test:
Normally, the WEST-B Exam is required for incoming teachers. It is possible, though, that if you have taken the SAT or ACT, you may not have to take a portion of the WEST-B exam; in some cases, you will not be required to take the test at all. The WEST-B has three sections – math, reading and writing. You need to take the test before the program begins.
Endorsement-Area Content Exam:
You will take the WEST-E or the NES exam in your area of endorsement (elementary, secondary, etc.). You need not pass this exam before beginning the program, but you must at least attempt it before the program begins. The test must be passed by the end of the fall term.
For more information visit: www.west.nesinc.com.
What does it mean when you say the program is a "full-time day program"?
Because you earn a master's degree and a teaching certificate at the same time, the coursework and time in the classroom require full-day attendance – basically, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday-Friday. During fall and spring terms, MIT candidates will have evening courses as well. You will, however, enjoy all public-school vacations and holidays.
What if I already have a teaching certificate?
The Master in Teaching Program is specifically designed for those who hold a bachelor's degree and who desire to teach, but do not yet have a teaching certificate. If you already hold a teaching certificate and if you're interested in attending Whitworth to earn a master's degree in education, school administration or counseling, please contact us at 509.777.3222, or visit www.whitworth.edu/gse.
What if my bachelor's degree is in a different subject than one in which I want to teach?
It is possible to earn an endorsement in a subject area that differs from your undergraduate academic major. Because Washington state endorsement requirements are based on content coursework and not on degrees earned, you may need to take extra classes in the area in which you want to teach. For more information about endorsements and courses required to earn a certificate in a specific content, please contact the MIT advisor at 509.777.3769.
Can I transfer coursework from a different program?
The MIT program at Whitworth is a cohort-based model. This means that all students take each core class as a group. Additionally, MIT courses are offered only at the graduate level and are highly specialized, so it is not likely that coursework from another institution or program will match up. In the rare instance that a previously completed course is the same in content and structure, students may petition the faculty to be excused from the course at Whitworth. Petitions will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
Can Whitworth's MIT program provide an endorsement in career and technical education (such as mechanics, wood shop, family & consumer sciences, or computer technology)?
Because the fields of career and technical education are highly specialized, teachers in these disciplines are certified directly through local districts. Individuals with experience and interest in these related fields who wish to teach in Eastern Washington should contact the following office:
ESD 101 (Educational Services District 101)
General Information, 509.789.3800
info@esd101.net
How do I get a parking pass?
Visit the Whitworth Security Services website and submit your information. The parking pass will be sent to your advisor's office on the north side of campus within two weeks of submission.
How do I get an ID card?
You can obtain one from the second floor of the Hixson Union Building (HUB) during the student life office hours (8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.) or you can submit an online application. For online applicants, the ID card will be sent to your advisor's office on the north side of campus.
Are there any writing resources available to MIT students?
The Whitworth Composition Commons (WCC) consulting services are available to MIT students Monday-Saturday by appointment (hours vary). More information can be found on the WCC website.
When is tuition due?
Tuition is generally due the first week of each semester, unless other arrangements have been made. A month-to-month payment plan can be scheduled.
How do I pay tuition?
You can pay online through your Self-Service profile, under financials, or you can pay in person at the student accounts office in McEachran Hall.
When do I have to pass the WEST-B by?
The WEST-B must be passed by the end of the first summer term.
When do I have to pass the NES (WEST-E) by?
The NES or WEST-E must be passed by Dec. 1. If you score within 10 points of the passing score, but do not pass, a waiver may be considered to allow you to student teach without a passing score.
I want to add another endorsement, how do I do that?
Send your advisor an email about the other endorsement(s) you are considering, and they can provide you with further information about your options.
I can't log in to my Whitworth email, what do I do?
Call the help desk at 509.777.3911 or visit the help desk in the Whitworth Library.
Do I really have to check my Whitworth email?
Yes, you are expected to check your Whitworth email daily and respond to emails within 24 hours. As the majority of information will come to you via email, please make sure you read all your emails in their entirety and respond when appropriate.
I've never set up my voicemail, should I do that now?
While everyone loves a good robot voice, it is important that you set up your voicemail. Some of your bosses (i.e., your university supervisor or mentor) may use calling as a primary mode of communication. You will want to make sure your voicemail is set up and your greeting includes your first and last name. Like your email, you should be checking your voicemail and responding within 24 hours.
Do we get to use the gym for free?
The fee to use the fitness center is optional. For more information, please visit the Whitworth recreation center membership page.