CNY Alternative Teacher Certification Program
The Central NY Alternative Teacher Certification Program supports future educators as they take the next step in their teaching journey. The program is designed for individuals who have completed at least 40 college credits and are currently working in classroom settings.
Prospective applicants are encouraged to review the frequently asked questions below.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Central New York Alternative Teacher Certification Program?
The Central New York Alternative Teacher Certification Program (CNY ATC) is a fully grant-funded initiative that leads candidates to New York State Teacher Certification in high-need fields (Special Education, Mathematics or Science). The program is fully online and offers two pathways to certification:
- The Upskilling Teaching Assistant Pathway is for individuals that have at least 40 college credits and do not yet hold a Bachelors Degree. They will complete any general education or prerequisite coursework at Tompkins Cortland Community College, then complete their Bachelors at SUNY Cortland.
- The Alternative Certification Pathway is for those that already have a Bachelors Degree (or are close to completing one). They will pursue their Masters in Teaching at SUNY Empire State.
If I already have a Bachelors or Masters Degree, will I need to complete a whole new program?
In New York State, teacher certification is based on completing a state-approved teacher preparation program, not simply earning a degree. Even if you already hold a bachelor’s or master’s degree in another field, the state still requires formal preparation in how to teach.
- This preparation includes coursework and supervised experience in areas such as:
- Child and adolescent development
- Classroom management and culturally responsive practices
- Special education foundations
- Assessment and instruction
- Literacy across content areas
- Supervised student teaching experience
Most colleges bundle the required course into a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) program. The degree itself is not the requirement. The completion of the approved preparation courses is what makes a candidate eligible for certification.
Can I enroll at any university, or is the CNY ATC program only offered through SUNY Cortland?
The Central NY Alternative Teacher Certification Program is housed at SUNY Cortland and works in partnership with several approved institutions. If accepted into the program, we will guide you through the enrollment process with one of our partnered institutions.
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If there is another school within the SUNY system that you would prefer to attend, we are happy to explore that option with you and work together to determine if participation can be supported.
Who can apply?
Our ideal candidate:
- Is interested in teaching in a high-needs field (Special Education, Math, or Science)
- Is not currently a certified teacher
- Is working in a school/ with students
- Has at least 40+ college credits
- Is comfortable with online coursework
- Has their district's support
What is the timeline for applications?
Application and program timeline:
- Applications open January 6, 2026
- Applications close February 9, 2026
- Acceptance letters will be sent early March 2026
- Coursework begins Summer or Fall 2026
What does the application process look like?
- Candidates will be asked to complete an online application form.
- Upload 3 letters of recommendation to the online application, evaluating your character, readiness for the program/teaching, and your suitability for teaching.
- Upload a current resume to the online application form, that demonstrates your academic background, work experience, skills, etc.
- Upload any unofficial college/university transcripts to the online application form, showing your degree, previous coursework, GPA, credits.
- Please review our Applying to the CNY ATC webpage for more information about applications as well as an application checklist!
Can I work while participating in the program?
Yes. The program is designed with working adults in mind, offering flexible online programs. However, The CNY ATC program is not responsible for ensuring that participants who are employed by a school district will be allowed to complete required observation hours and student teaching experiences during work hours. To complete field hours or student teaching during work hours, participants will need an endorsement from their district stating that the district will accommodate the participant to complete their field hours as part of their job duties. Should a district choose not to endorse a participant in this way, the participant may need to take a leave of absence or reduce their work hours to complete these required experiences.
Is there a work commitment following the completion of the program?
No. There is no employment obligation or commitment tied to participation in the Central NY Alternative Teacher Certification Program. While many participants choose to continue working in their current district, you are not required to do so after completing the program.
What is expected of me if I am accepted into the program?
Candidates are expected to:
- Take at least one course a semester during Fall, Spring, and Summer sessions.
- Maintain a C or better in all coursework.
- Complete required Field Observations and Student Teaching.
- Take and pass all required Certification Exams.
