Licensed teacher working with children in the classroom.

Alternative Teacher Licensure

Description

Earn your New Mexico Level 1 teaching license with CNM's state-accredited, post-baccalaureate Alternative Teacher Licensure Program.

Program Details

Degrees and Certificates

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Being a teacher is a highly rewarding and meaningful profession. CNM's Alternative Teacher Licensure (ATL) program is for community members from all walks of life who hold a minimum of a bachelor's degree and are dedicated to making a positive difference. Through our program, you will learn effective and appropriate pedagogy guided by our five core values:

  • Critically Reflective Practice
  • Professionalism
  • Diversity
  • Multicultural Perspectives
  • Collaboration

It is expected for our teacher candidates to live into our core values and uphold standards of professional conduct in all forms of communication with CNM staff, CNM faculty, and all community partners.

New Mexico Teacher Licensure

The New Mexico Public Education Department (NMPED) Professional Licensure Bureau is responsible for determining the qualifications for and issuing licenses to teachers, administrators, and other instructional personnel in the state.

The NMPED follows the 3-Tiered Licensure Advancement System. Students accepted into our ATL Program qualify to apply for an Alternative Level 1 license through NMPED. Alternative Level 1 licenses are nonrenewable, two-year licenses granted to allow a person to simultaneously teach while completing pedagogical coursework to obtain full Level 1 licensure.  

As part of the ATL Program, we track student progress; however, licensure assessments are the responsibility of the teacher candidate. All licensure assessments must be completed with passing scores and reported to NMPED before a full level 1 license will be granted.

Paying for School

Financial barriers shouldn't hinder your education, which is why CNM provides a range of resources, including financial aid, scholarships, and flexible payment plans. Our dedicated Financial Aid and Scholarship staff is here to guide you through the process, helping you secure the funding you need for your degree or certificate.

With competitive tuition rates and support in navigating financial aid options, we’re committed to making your educational goals achievable, without the stress of financial constraints.

Additional Information for ATL Students 

Info Session Dates

Learn more about the Alternative Teacher Licensure program by attending one of our Q&A sessions! Discover the benefits of being a teacher, ask questions about the program requirements, learn about funding options, and more. Once you register, you will receive a confirmation email about the Zoom meeting. If you missed a session, please reach out to us at [email protected] if you have any questions.

Register for an Alternative Teacher Licensure Q&A Session