Alternative Teacher Certification Program

The Alternative Teacher Certification Program (ATCP) at Houston Community College (HCC) is a state-approved program that prepares individuals for Texas certification in elementary and secondary education. It is designed for those without formal teacher training or with degrees in other fields, such as biology or art. 

Becoming a Certified Teacher in Texas

1. Earn a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution.
   
   Students without a bachelor's degree:  Meet with an academic advisor to discuss the Teacher Education, AAT. This transferrable program includes the required foundational courses for a bachelor’s degree.
   
   
2. Complete an approved Educator Preparation Program (EPP) like the HCC-ATCP!
3. Complete 50 observation hours during the pre-service observation course.
4. Complete a year-long internship as the teacher of record.
5. Apply for state certification after EPP recommendation.
6. Obtain the Texas Classroom Teacher Standard Certificate from the Texas Education Agency (TEA).
   
   Certified educators:  Previously certified teachers are not required to complete an Educator Preparation Program (EPP) to renew, teach in another state, or earn an additional certification. Review the Texas Education Agency's (TEA) Educator Testing webpage for exam registration and preparation.
   
   Please review the following links for further steps:
   • Out-of-State Certified Educators
   • Out-of-Country Certified Educators
   • Renewing a Standard Certificate
   • Additional Certification by Exam

Next Steps

Review the Alternative Teacher Certificate (ATCP) eligibility, prerequisite coursework, and certification areas.

• Students with an HCC ID# may email atcp@hccs.edu with the full name, student ID#, and unofficial transcripts for a quick review. The review process averages five to seven business days.

Admission Deadlines

• Spring Deadline - November 15
• Summer Deadline - April 15
• Fall Deadline - July 15

Please email atcp@hccs.edu or call 713.718.8149 for more information.

Program Timelines

• Students starting after August 2023 must complete the program within three years of their first ATCP class.
• Students who started before August 2023 must also complete the program within three years of their first ATCP class.
• Students in the program for 3+ years must be recommended for certification by January 31, 2025.

Special cases will be handled individually, with resolutions detailed in a student completer agreement. 

Certification Renewal

Texas Standard Certificates must be renewed every five years by completing the required Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits.

Program Costs and Course Schedule

Each course is $422, with nine classes totaling an estimated $3,798 to complete the ATCP requirements. This does not include application fees, state-required fees, and testing fees.

Complaint and Conflict Resolution Policy

Informal Complaint

• We encourage individuals to address concerns directly with the relevant staff member, such as the Program Field Supervisor, Instructor, etc. whenever possible. Most concerns can be resolved quickly through open communication. Informal complaints must be addressed with the staff member within 10 business days of the incident or concern.

Formal Complaint Submission

If the issue is not resolved informally, a formal written complaint must be submitted within 30 business days of the incident or concern.

• Complaints must be submitted via a form using this link
• The written complaint must:
  • Clearly state the facts and nature of the concern
  • If applicable, include the citation of Texas Administrative Code, Texas Education Code or the Enrollment Agreement clause you feel has been violated.
  • Include your name, contact information, and State ID/Intern ID (as applicable)