Higher Education Teaching Certificate
Shape Learning and Inspire Success
The Higher Education Teaching Certificate (HECT) equips current and aspiring college instructors with the knowledge, skills and practical experience to excel in today’s diverse higher education environments. Grounded in social justice, equity and inclusion, the program combines graduate-level course work with hands-on teaching practice to help educators create engaging, student-centered learning experiences.
Program Information
Modality
Hybrid
Program Length
2 semesters · 9 units
Cost Per Unit
$397* for Summer 2027 · Financial aid and scholarships available
Applications Open
November 1 – April 1 for Summer start
Start Terms
Summer
How to Apply
General Requirements
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MA/MS Degree from a regionally accredited institution or currently enrolled in a MA/MS program.
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Minimum GPA of 2.5.
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Official transcript(s) (noting the completion of a U.S. bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution or the equivalent of a U.S. bachelor’s degree from an accredited and/or recognized institution from a foreign country).
Program-Specific Requirements
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Respond to 2 essay prompts: In no more than 300 words per answer, please respond to the following two questions:
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Please describe your teaching philosophy and how you respond to and incorporate diverse perspectives in your pedagogy.
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What is the role of institutions of higher education in addressing issues of diversity and social justice?
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Out-of-State Eligibility
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If you live outside of California, check whether our program is approved to accept an application from you.
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International students must demonstrate English language proficiency.
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Application opens November 1; deadline of April 1 for Summer admission.
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Apply through Cal State Apply and submit the required documents.
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Submit transcripts.
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Certificate, Higher Education Teaching is the program designation.
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Valuable Learning Experiences
The HCET combines graduate-level course work with hands-on teaching experience to prepare current and future educators for success in higher education. Through a flexible hybrid format that blends online learning with in-person practicum experiences, students connect theory to practice and build the Spartan Edge needed to create meaningful, student-centered learning environments.
Featured Courses
What Can You Do with a Higher Education Teaching Certificate?
Great teaching has the power to transform lives, strengthen communities and shape the future of higher education. The Higher Education Teaching Certificate prepares you to create engaging, inclusive and student-centered learning experiences that support the success of diverse learners.
- Bay Area Salaries: San Jose is listed as the top-paying city for community college faculty, with a median pay of over $100,000.
Take a look at some of the top sectors, companies and job titles of our alumni, according to LinkedIn.
Top Job Titles
- Academic Advisor
- Adjunct Teacher/Professor
- Corporate Trainer
- Education Consultant
- Instructional Designer
- Learning and Development Specialist
- Lecturer
Top Companies
- City College of San Francisco
- Coursera
- IXL Learning
- San Jose State University
- Stanford University
- UC San Francisco
- Udemy
- US Berkeley
Top Sectors
- Community Colleges
- Government and Nonprofits
- Education Technology
- Higher Education
Get the Spartan Edge
Gain momentum through intentional learning, meaningful support, and real opportunity. Whether you’re starting your journey, advancing your education, or expanding your professional skills, SJSU helps you go further.
Graduate Admissions
Review our admission requirements and utilize our Graduate Program Coordinators.
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Costs and Financial Aid
What you need to know about tuition, fees, financial aid and cost per unit.
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