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Become a Certified Texas Teacher Faster

McMurry University’s FasTrack program provides an accelerated route to Texas teacher certification for individuals who already hold a bachelor’s degree. Choose online or face-to-face coursework and move toward a rewarding teaching career.

Flexible online or in-person formats
Accelerated certification pathway
Personalized guidance from experienced educators
Designed for career changers and graduates
Choose your pathway

Pick the FasTrack format that fits your life.

Compare McMurry’s online and face-to-face options and choose the route that best fits your schedule, goals, and preferred learning format.

FTF

On campus

Face-to-Face Certification Pathway

Best for students who prefer in-person instruction and direct support while completing certification requirements.

  • On-campus classes
  • Flexible scheduling through two long semesters or one summer with three sessions
  • Meeting with the FasTrack Director to review certification options, coursework, timeline, and PACT registration

View Face-to-Face Steps

OL

Online

Online Certification Pathway

Best for working professionals who need flexible online coursework while preparing for Texas teacher certification.

  • Fully online coursework
  • Three seven-week sessions after admission to the program
  • Includes online orientation, video observations, and public school classroom observations

View Online Steps

Program overview

Built for bachelor’s degree holders ready to teach.

FasTrack is designed for bachelor’s degree holders who are ready to move into the classroom through a supportive certification pathway.

01

Who Should Apply

  • Career changers interested in teaching
  • College graduates with a bachelor’s degree
  • Professionals transitioning to education
  • Individuals passionate about working with students
02

Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
  • Minimum GPA requirement of 2.75
  • Official transcripts from all colleges or universities attended
  • Required coursework and examinations
03

Why McMurry

Experienced faculty support, practical classroom preparation, flexible pathways, and a strong tradition of preparing educators for Texas schools.

04

Career Opportunities

  • Elementary Education
  • Secondary Education
  • Special Education
  • Subject-Specific Teaching Fields
Compare options

Online vs. Face-to-Face at a glance.

Review the key differences between the two FasTrack options before starting your application.

Face-to-Face

On campus

Format
On-campus classes
Best for
Students who prefer in-person instruction
Early support
Meet with the FasTrack Director
Course structure
Two long semesters or one summer with three sessions

Online

Flexible

Format
Fully online coursework
Best for
Working professionals needing flexibility
Early support
Complete the FasTrack Zero Course and online orientation.
Course structure
Three seven-week online sessions
Certification process

Follow a clear path to teacher certification.

Each pathway guides you from application through coursework, field experience, and final Texas teacher certification.

Face-to-Face Pathway
1

Apply to McMurry University

Apply as a transfer student and follow the application guidance provided for students pursuing FasTrack.

2

Meet with the FasTrack Director

Discuss certification options, required coursework, timeline, start dates, and guidance for PACT registration.

3

Pass the PACT Exam

Take the Pre-Admission Content Test in your chosen certification area before entering the Educator Preparation Program.

4

Apply to the FasTrack Program

After passing PACT, complete the required FasTrack forms. Admission includes PACT completion and a minimum GPA of 2.75.

5

Complete Coursework and Observations

Begin required coursework and classroom observations designed to prepare you for teaching.

6

Clinical Teaching or Internship

During Methods and Management and Planning, Curriculum, and Assessment, receive instructions for clinical teaching or a one-year teaching internship.

7

Apply for Texas Teacher Certification

After coursework and clinical teaching or internship, apply for the Standard Teaching Certificate through SBEC and complete the fee and background check requirements.

Online Pathway
1

Apply to McMurry University

Begin by applying to McMurry University and preparing for the required entry steps for FasTrack certification.

2

Complete the FasTrack Zero Course

Prepare for the PACT exam, which is required for admission into the Educator Preparation Program.

3

Complete Online Orientation

Complete McMurry Virtual Campus Orientation for Online Learning before beginning coursework.

4

Apply to the FasTrack Program

After passing PACT, submit the required forms. The FasTrack Director provides a personalized certification plan.

5

Complete Coursework and Observations

Complete three seven-week online sessions, 15 hours of video observations, and 30 hours of public school classroom observations.

6

Student Teaching or Internship

During Session Two, receive instructions for student teaching or internship. Student teaching includes a 14-week clinical teaching experience; internships require additional approval and documentation.

7

Apply for Texas Teacher Certification

After all required coursework and student teaching or internship, apply for the Standard Teaching Certificate through SBEC.

Frequently asked questions

Frequently asked questions about FasTrack.

Find quick answers about eligibility, program timing, degree requirements, and Texas certification approval.

What is an alternative teacher certification program?

Alternative certification allows individuals with a bachelor’s degree to become teachers without completing a traditional undergraduate education degree.

How long does the FasTrack program take?

Program timelines vary based on coursework and certification requirements.

Do I need an education degree to apply?

No. Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.

Is the program approved for Texas teacher certification?

Yes. FasTrack prepares candidates for certification in Texas.

Start your teaching career

Take the next step toward becoming a Texas teacher.

Join McMurry University’s FasTrack Teacher Certification Program and start your journey toward a rewarding career in education.