Cumberland's Master's program for Initial Teacher License Candidates is focused on the study of pedagogy and other topics related to teaching, learning, and schooling. We do not offer courses at the Master's level in subject area material. Candidates may be enrolled in undergraduate courses in their content area if they wish to improve their knowledge, or if a transcript review requires it.

If a candidate seeks an initial teacher's license through a Master's program, they must demonstrate adequate mastery of subject material by passing the Praxis II Content Knowledge exam related to their intended licensure before they can student teach.

Be sure that Cumberland University can support the type of license you want to receive - visit the State Department of Education's Website for a list of programs that we are approved to offer.

The list of Praxis II Content Knowledge tests required for Tennessee teachers' licenses are available from http://www.ets.org/praxis/tn/requirements. For licensure, all candidates must pass a Principles of Learning and Teaching (PLT) exam, and the designated Content Knowledge tests (there may be more than one).

Initial Teacher License Candidates interested in Student Teaching at the end of their MAT program must pass the Praxis II Content Knowledge tests for the type of licensure they seek prior to completing two semesters of their MAT coursework.

For example, if a candidate is interested in a Biology 7-12 license, they must take the Principles of Learning and Teaching, 7-12 (Test code 5624 or 0624), Biology: Content Knowledge (Test Code 0235), and a choice of one of two other exams. CU Initial Teacher License Candidates must pass to be qualified to student teach.

Candidates may register on-line for exams with a credit card by clicking here. Other details about Praxis exams can be found at the Praxis webpage of the Educational Testing Service.

Failure to pass the Praxis II Content Knowledge test for their type of licensure will mean the candidate will not be permitted to student teach. Candidates may opt to file a change of Major to the MAE program and complete the degree without licensure.