Department of Education
Take your first steps toward becoming a teacher with an Associate of Arts in Teaching
(AAT) degree from Collin College.
Collin College offers degree plans with three different specializations: early childhood
through Grade 6, middle grades (grades 4-8) and secondary (grades 6-12, 7-12 or 8-12,
depending on teaching content area). Specializations will prepare students for transfer
to a baccalaureate program that leads to initial Texas teacher certification.
Students seeking all-level certifications (early childhood through Grade 12) like
special education, theater, and art, can transfer EDUC 1301 and EDUC 2301 to baccalaureate
institutions. Students should check with transfer advisors for other course requirements.
Students who complete the AAT will also complete 32 observation hours in a public
school classroom.
Mission Statement | AAT Program Level Outcomes | AAT Marketable Skills | AAT Degree Paths
Mission Statement
The mission of the Collin College Department of Education is to equip life-long, reflective
learners in critical thinking and communication techniques; and to prepare future
teachers who utilize best teaching practices, create developmentally appropriate educational
environments for diverse learners, and generate positive impacts on children, youth,
families, and school communities.
AAT Program Level Outcomes
Program Learning Outcome 1: The students will design instruction that promotes student learning, makes use of
effective communication techniques, and incorporates instructional strategies that
actively engage a diverse student population in the learning process.
Program Learning Outcome 2: The students will analyze grade-level curriculum and materials for various aspects of diversity, including ethnicity, gender, gifted and special education, bilingual / ESL, socioeconomic status, and family structure.
Program Learning Outcome 3: The students will connect learning theories to educational practice.
Program Learning Outcome 4: The students will incorporate effective technology tools and resources into the grade-level curriculum and course objectives.
Program Learning Outcome 5: The student will analyze and evaluate ethical standards and other professional guidelines.
AAT Marketable Skills
● Create and implement objectives, instruction, and assessment in accordance with
state standards and district guidelines.
● Develop an age-appropriate classroom management plan
● Monitor and assess student performance and provide relevant and timely feedback
● Adapt and modify teaching methods and instructional materials to meet students’
varying needs and interests
● Identify characteristics of diverse learners that affect classroom learning and
the culture of schooling
● Communicate effectively and professionally with administrators, colleagues, staff,
and families.
Early Childhood through Grade 6
Labs: EDUC 1301 and EDUC 2301 each require 16 hours of observation in a public school classroom. Lab information will be provided by your professor.
EDUC 1300: Learning Framework: The Education Department also offers EDUC 1300: Learning Framework, a core elective open to all students. More information about this class can be found here.