For individuals considering a career change into education in Virginia, the Career Switcher Program offers an accelerated route to becoming a teacher. Old Dominion University (ODU) provides a Level I program designed to equip candidates with the necessary skills and knowledge for a successful transition into the classroom. But is the career switcher program teaching at ODU good?
The Level I preparation at ODU is intensive, requiring a minimum of 180 clock hours of instruction, including practical field experience. This comprehensive phase covers essential areas such as curriculum development, instructional technology integration, content area reading strategies, language acquisition principles, and differentiated instruction techniques. Classroom and behavior management are also key components, alongside instructional design based on assessment data and human growth and development studies. The curriculum is specifically aligned with the Virginia Standards of Learning, ensuring relevance and rigor. This intensive training is completed within a single year, offered through flexible delivery systems to accommodate career switchers.
Upon successful completion of ODU’s Level I program, candidates are eligible for a one-year Provisional Career Switcher License in Virginia. This license, valid from July 1st to June 30th, allows graduates to seek employment in Virginia public or accredited nonpublic schools. During this provisional period, career switchers gain practical classroom experience while working towards full licensure. If employment is not secured within the first year, the Provisional License can be extended for up to two additional years with school endorsement, providing continued opportunity to launch their teaching career. The program is structured to provide a fast yet thorough pathway for career changers to enter the teaching profession.
Old Dominion University’s Level I curriculum is designed to be a fast-paced and effective path for acquiring the essential skills, competencies, and professional attitudes needed for successful teaching. The program’s focus on practical application and alignment with Virginia standards suggests a strong foundation for new educators. For those asking “Is The Career Switcher Program Teaching Odu Good?”, the intensive curriculum and focus on essential teaching practices at ODU indicate a program well-suited to prepare career switchers for the demands of teaching in Virginia schools.
Read the detailed requirements on the Virginia Department of Education website.
