K-12 Teacher Preparation

Portland State University educates prospective K-12 teachers in the College of Education, through the Graduate Teacher Education Program (GTEP) and the Special Educator Program (SPED). The Special Educator Program prepares teacher candidates to work as Special Education Teachers in Pre-K through grade 12 settings and results in the teacher candidate receiving the Oregon Preliminary Teaching License with added Special Education Generalist Endorsement and option to complete the MA or MS in Special Education. Both GTEP and SPED are split into separate tracks to emphasize either elementary (K-6/7-8 self-contained) or secondary (middle/high school) education, and both result in a master’s degree (Master of Education or Master of Special Education) and an initial teaching license. 

Undergraduates at Portland State University may prepare for competitive admissions by consulting with appropriate advisers, by achieving high academic standards in the recommended and required courses for specialization, and in courses in liberal arts, and by documenting successful experience with children in public schools. For students interested in the BA/BS in Special Education degree and licensure program, please visit https://www.pdx.edu/sped/sped-undergraduate. Passing scores on teacher exams mandated by the Oregon Teachers Standards and Practices Commission (TSPC) are also required for entry into the GTEP.