Follow the steps outlined on the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) Teacher certification checklist to complete the certification process through the State of Missouri. Columbia College will then be able to recommend you for an Initial Teaching Certificate.
Refer to the application status information sheet for clarification on what the application status phrases mean on your DESE profile.
DESE School Leader (K-12) Certification Process
Follow the steps outlined on the DESE School Leader K-12 certification checklist to complete the certification process through the State of Missouri. Columbia College will then be able to recommend you for an School Leader K-12 Certificate.
DESE Special Reading Certification Process
Follow the steps outlined on the DESE Special Reading certification checklist to complete the certification process through the State of Missouri. Columbia College will then be able to recommend you for a Special Reading add-on certificate.
DESE Gifted Certification Process
Follow the steps outlined on the DESE Gifted certification checklist to complete the certification process through the State of Missouri. You will then be able to apply for the Gifted add-on certificate. This certificate does not require a recommendation from Columbia College.