Option 9

Expedited Teacher Certification Pathways in P5 Elementary & Early Childhood (Birth to K) Education

Morehead State University’s state-approved expedited certification pathways provide flexible, high-quality routes into teaching for individuals seeking certification in Elementary Education and Early Childhood Education. Through strong district partnerships, these programs are designed to be flexible, individualized, and affordable while addressing critical teacher shortages in our region.

Option 9 – Expedited 5 Elementary Education Certification

Option 9 is a Kentucky pathway for paraeducators to become certified teachers while earning a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education. Candidates complete the program in approximately three school years and earn both a four-year degree and initial teaching certification. The program includes embedded clinical experiences and sustained mentoring from experienced classroom teachers who support candidates’ development throughout the program.

Option 9 – Expedited Early Childhood (Birth to K) Education (BA) Pathway

MSU also offers a Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education for individuals seeking certification to teach and support young children in birth–to–primary settings. This program provides a comprehensive foundation in child development, instructional practice, and family engagement, with structured field experiences leading to initial certification.

Admission Note

Applicants to Option 9 must submit a request for admission at least two weeks prior to the start of the Fall or Spring semester.

• Candidates must be employed in a classroom position while completing coursework.
• This route does not allow the candidate to serve as a teacher while enrolled.
• Initial certification is granted after the candidate completes their bachelor’s degree and certification assessments.