Post-Baccalaureate and Graduate Teacher Certification Guide

Admitted students entering post-baccalaureate or graduate teacher-certification programs at the University of Montana Western must follow a specific sequence of administrative and academic milestones to secure their credentials.

The transition from admission to active classroom teaching involves more than just enrolling in classes.

Immediate Steps After Admission

Once admission is confirmed, the university initiates communication via email regarding advisor assignments and the next steps in the process. Students are expected to monitor their Montana Western email accounts closely, as this serves as the primary channel for official correspondence from the Registrar’s Office, Financial Aid, and Business Services.

Students should follow the individualized Plan of Study prepared by their faculty advisor. Prepared by a faculty advisor, this document acts as a roadmap, identifying which previous courses apply to the new program, which remaining requirements must be met, and which specific exams are mandatory for licensure.

Students should use this plan to:

Connect with their assigned faculty advisor.
Review and discuss the intended course load.
Confirm their first-semester schedule.

Registering for courses through the Registrar and faculty advisors

The registration process differs depending on a student’s progress in the program. For the first semester, the Registrar’s Office assists with registration once all preregistration steps are completed. A critical administrative requirement during this phase is completing the Change to E-Learner Form, which ensures the student is assigned to the correct fee category.

In subsequent semesters, the responsibility shifts toward the faculty advisor. Advisors provide the registration PIN or necessary advising information required to register through DAWGS, the university’s student information system. Students are cautioned not to change any courses included in their Plan of Study without first consulting their advisor.

To manage day-to-day academic life, students rely on several digital platforms:

DAWGS: Used for viewing course schedules, academic records, billing, and financial-aid requirements.
Canvas: The online learning system where instructors post course materials, assignments, and grades.
Montana Western Bookstore: The central hub for identifying required textbooks and course materials via ISBNs.

Coordinating field placements and licensure through Luke Lewis

For many teacher-certification candidates, the path to professional practice involves classroom observations, supervised teaching, or full student teaching. These experiences are strictly regulated through Montana Western’s placement and approval process.

Luke Lewis, the Manager of Field Placements, Supervision, and Licensure, serves as the primary contact for these requirements. Students must coordinate with Lewis regarding field placements, student teaching, and licensure recommendations before beginning any school-based experience.

A specific challenge for those teaching in Montana K–12 schools while still completing their requirements is the need for a Class 5 Provisional License. Because Montana offers multiple types of Class 5 licenses, the university advises students to consult with Luke Lewis rather than selecting a license type independently, ensuring they follow the correct application process through the state’s licensing system.

Luke lewis in action during nrl rugby league match between parramatta eels v penrith panthers parramatta stadium friday march

Financial and Administrative Responsibilities

The economic aspect of post-baccalaureate study is split between two distinct offices. The Financial Aid Office handles eligibility, FAFSA requirements, VA education benefits, and work-study programs. Meanwhile, Business Services and Student Accounts manage the practicalities of tuition, payment deadlines, and payment plans.

The university requires a separate graduation application for every certificate being completed. Students must also ensure that all Praxis or other required licensure exams are completed, with official scores sent directly to the University of Montana Western Office of Public Instruction.

Common Questions Regarding Post-Baccalaureate Requirements

How do I ensure my previous credits are counted toward my new certificate?

Your faculty advisor prepares an individualized Plan of Study that explicitly identifies which of your previous courses apply to your current program requirements.

What should I do if I need to teach while still in the program?

You may need to apply for a Class 5 Provisional License to teach in a Montana K–12 school. You should contact Luke Lewis, the Manager of Field Placements, Supervision, and Licensure, to receive guidance on the specific type of license required for your situation.

How do I request my official transcripts once I finish?

Official transcripts are fulfilled through the National Student Clearinghouse. If you need your transcript before your certificate is officially posted, you should select the option to hold the transcript until the posting is complete.