TEACHER EDUCATION
Begin or advance your career as a teacher or principal. Educators are in demand on the Treasure Coast, especially in math, science, exceptional student education and bilingual education.
THE RIVER HAS…
- A 100% job placement rate for Bachelor of Science in Education graduates
- The best online bachelor’s degree in elementary education
- Dozens of scholarships available for education majors
AVAILABLE PROGRAMS
- Associate in Arts
- Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education with Reading and ESOL Endorsements
- Bachelor of Science in Exceptional Student Education with Reading and ESOL Endorsements
- Educator Preparation Institute
Associate in Arts
Associate’s Degree
Take the courses you need to qualify as a teaching assistant in public or private high schools. Or, after you complete your associate’s degree, you can continue in a bachelor’s degree program at Indian River State College or another Florida public university — which will prepare you to teach at the high school level.
Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education with Reading and ESOL Endorsements
Bachelor’s Degree
Location: Online
This program includes multiple field experience requirements in Florida schools.
Description: Help children build a foundation that will help them become successful in their futures. This program will prepare you to teach elementary school students with a focus on literacy and learning English as a second language.
Bachelor of Science in Exceptional Student Education with Reading and ESOL Endorsements
Bachelor’s Degree
Location: Online
Learn how to help every child succeed in the classroom. This program prepares you to work with students in grades K-12 who have various learning needs, with a focus on literacy and learning English as a second language.
Funding is available for paraprofessionals or teacher’s assistants in this program through the Florida Department of Education.
Educator Preparation Institute
Certificates of Professional Preparation
Is EPI Right for Me?
Already Teaching on a Temporary Certificate
In many cases, EPI is not required. Verify requirements on your Statement of Eligibility (SOE) and with your district certification specialist or EPI lead Professor Lalla.
Have a Non‑Education Bachelor’s Degree
EPI is the standard route. You’ll complete professional education competencies, FTCE exams, and a mentored practicum.
Finishing AA or Changing Careers
If you do not yet hold a bachelor’s, consider IRSC’s B.S. in Elementary Education or ESE. EPI is for bachelor’s degree holders.
Note: If your employer does not offer an Educator Competence/Employer Program, EPI can meet the professional preparation requirement.
How the EPI Works
Program Components
- Professional education coursework (7 or 10 courses, based on SOE/subject area)
- Florida Teacher Certification Examinations (FTCE): General Knowledge (GK), Professional Education (PEd), and Subject Area Examination (SAE)
- Mentored EPI Practicum with portfolio demonstrating the Florida Educator Accomplished Practices (FEAPs)
Typical Timeline
- Obtain a Statement of Eligibility (SOE) showing “Eligible” for your subject area
- Apply to IRSC as a EPI student and upon acceptance complete onboarding
- Begin coursework and schedule FTCE exams at appropriate milestones
- Complete the EPI Practicum with portfolio
- Submit documentation to FLDOE to upgrade to a Professional Certificate
Admission & Eligibility
Eligibility Checklist
- Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution
- SOE indicating subject area eligibility (may require passing an FTCE Subject Area Exam)
- Professional dispositions and availability for practicum
Looking Ahead…
A Level 2 background screening will be required later in the program for school/district placement. We mention it here so applicants are aware early: those with prior issues that may prevent clearance could face challenges progressing through the program.
How to Apply
- Complete an IRSC application, selecting EPI as your program.
- Email your SOE and completed data form to mlalla@irsc.edu.
- Begin coursework; track FEAPs evidence for the practicum portfolio.
What to Expect to Learn in the EPI
Note: EPI course count varies (7 or 10) by subject area and SOE requirements.
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What Alumni Say
“The program was perfect for students like me. I was working two jobs, and my wife, Lindsey, and I had recently welcomed our first daughter.”
Brennan Murphy ’23, B.S.
Exceptional Student Education
Education Autism Endorsement
Get a deeper understanding of autism spectrum disorders and how you can help meet the needs of students with autism.
Educator Preparation Institute
If you already have a bachelor’s degree, take advantage of our fast track to a teaching career in the Educator Preparation Institute.
WE’RE HERE TO HELP
For more information about our elementary and secondary education program, contact us or request more information to talk to one of our admissions counselors.
Emily Renschler
Elementary Education
erenschl@irsc.edu
Dr. Kim Zgonc
Exceptional Student Education
kzgonc@irsc.edu
Dr. Robin Zide
Middle Grades Math
rzide@irsc.edu
Molly Lalla
EPI
mlalla@irsc.edu
NEXT STEPS
APPLY TO THE RIVER
Discover what’s possible at Indian River State College. When you’re ready, our simple application process is here to help you take the next step.
PAYING FOR COLLEGE
We’re here to help you understand your options. From financial aid to scholarships and affordable tuition, The River is committed to making college accessible for everyone.
VISIT CAMPUS
Experience the energy of campus life for yourself. Schedule a tour to explore our facilities, meet students and staff, and discover what makes The River an incredible place to learn and grow.
