FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is the criteria?
Students must have a Bachelors degree with 9-12 hours in the area they wish to teach (math or science). For individuals interested in teaching at the elementary level, they can have a combination of coursework in science and/or math. For example, you can have 3 hours in college algebra and 6 hours in biology.
Other requirements include: a cumulative GPA of 2.75; GRE scores with a minimum passing score of 400 (verbal) 400 (quantitative) and 3.5 analytical.
What does the scholarship pay for?
Tution, fees and books are covered under the scholarship.
Do I need to qualify for financial aid to be able to qualify for this scholarship?
No. This opportunity is open to all individuals regardless of economic background.
How does this SMARRT program work?
This is a two year program and the student will gain a Master of Arts degree in Teaching with certification in 8-12 Mathematics or 8-12 Life Sciences or EC-4 Generalist. Currently UIW does not offer a middle school certification.
The courses will be offered in the evening as well as possible weekends. Depending on the content area that you select, coursework will have emphasis in math and/or science as well as education courses. All courses are at the graduate level.
Is the internship paid?
Yes. The students will secure their own employment and will be paid according to the school district’s pay scale.
While I’m doing my internship will I continue my classes?
Yes in the evening and/or weekends.
Can you describe the coursework?
Please click the following PDF file to view the coursework
How many hours will I be required to take during each semester?
You will be required to enroll half-time at the to full-time. 6 hours per semester is considered part-time and 9 hours is considered full-time.
Will I receive academic support during my graduate work at UIW?
Yes. Students will receive academic and certification advising as well as preparation for the state certification exams.
If I’m currently certified can I qualify for the scholarship?
Yes, but preference will be given to those seeking their initial teaching certification. However, you are strongly encouraged to apply.
Please keep in mind:
If you are currently a certified teacher, you must be changing levels and/or content area. For example, if you are currently a Math teacher and wish to obtain your Master of Arts in Teaching with certification in Science you can apply for this scholarship.
How many scholarships will be awarded?
10 elementary, 20 Science and 20 math scholarships will be awarded per year.
How long has this program been in progress?
We are excited to report that our first cohort will begin their coursework in the Spring 2006 semester.
SOUNDS GREAT! But…
What are my obligations?
If awarded the SMARRT scholarship you will be required to commit to working (“pay back”) in a Title I school for 2 years after you have completed your academic program.
Will my internship count as my “pay back?”
No. Your “pay back” begins when you finish your program.
What if I already work in a Title I school, can’t I count this as my “payback”?
No. Again your “pay back” begins when you finish your program.
What if I’m unable to complete the program or decide I do not want to teach?
You will be responsible to pay back the scholarship monies that you have used. The scholarship will in essence become a federal loan and will be reported to the Department of Education.
