Apply for Specialized Certification Pathways

The following are specialized pathways that have unique application eligibility requirements. Not all specialized pathways lead to standard, Professional certification (Adjunct) and some specialized pathways have restrictions on adding areas after a certificate is issued (Montessori and Advanced Fine Arts).

Adjunct Certification: The Adjunct certificate allows content experts the opportunity to share their expertise in the classroom. Individuals who qualify for this certificate can teach up to two credit-bearing courses in their Adjunct content area over an academic year. However, this certificate cannot be converted to a professional certificate.

Internship Certificate Applicants: Candidates that are currently enrolled in an internship program through an institution of higher education must hold an internship certificate during their placement in a South Carolina public school district.

Advanced Fine Arts: This specialized alternative certification is intended as a pathway for individuals with a degree and professional experience in an area of the fine arts (Music, Dance, Theater, or Art) that did not complete an approved educator preparation program to pursue a professional teaching certificate at the request of an employing South Carolina public school district. Application procedures, initial eligibility requirements, and certification advancement requirements differ from other certificate pathways.

Montessori Certification Applicants: Educators that have completed a Montessori Accreditation Council for Teacher Education approved program may apply for their initial certification in a Montessori field or may apply to add a Montessori field to their existing South Carolina educator certification. Educators that receive their initial certification in a Montessori field are not eligible to add further fields to their certificate without completing an approved educator preparation program.