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Home/Riverhawk News/ACE Institute at Northeastern State University opens doors for future educators

ACE Institute at Northeastern State University opens doors for future educators

ACE Institute at Northeastern State University opens doors for future educators

TAHLEQUAH, Okla. – Northeastern State University’s Alternative Certification for Educators Institute is helping experienced professionals turn their knowledge into purpose by preparing them to lead, teach and inspire Oklahoma’s next generation of students.

Designed for individuals who hold a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a non-education field, the ACE Institute offers flexible coursework that meets Oklahoma State Department of Education requirements for alternative teaching certification.

In just 6 to 18 credit hours, students gain the skills and confidence needed to succeed in the classroom. They will learn classroom management, lesson planning, assessment, teaching strategies and more. Participants will also develop strategies to instruct diverse learners, assess individual learning styles, and differentiate instruction to meet students’ unique needs.

“The ACE Institute is opening doors for professionals who are ready to make a difference in Oklahoma’s classrooms,” said NSU President Rodney Hanley. “With scholarship funding now available, there has never been a better time to turn your experience into purpose and help shape the future of education in our state.”

Tuition for the program ranges from $2,200 to $6,600, depending on credit hours. Eligible students can receive a $500 ACE scholarship to help get started.

The program is fully online, requires no entrance exam and offers flexible class lengths in 4-week, 8-week or 16-week formats. Students can also earn NSU digital completion certificates called NSU Badges in areas such as Brain-Based Pedagogy, Differentiated Instruction and Learner-Centric Pedagogy.

“By removing financial and logistical barriers, the ACE Institute is empowering a new generation of educators to thrive while helping schools fill critical teaching positions,” said Ana Davis-Landsaw, ACE Institute Assistant Director.Scholarship applications are open through Jan. 12, 2026. Prospective students must be admitted into the Alternative Pathway to Teaching program and apply to the NSU Graduate College as an undeclared, non degree-seeking student.

To learn more and apply, visit nsuok.edu/ACE.

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