Professional certification is an important milestone for many students preparing for careers in education. The College of Education & Human Development’s Certification Office helps current and future professionals understand certification requirements, navigate state processes and successfully transition into their chosen profession.
The office supports educator preparation programs across the University of Missouri and helps prepare professionals for careers in classrooms, schools and educational organizations throughout Missouri and beyond.
Certification Support & Resources
Students have access to a variety of resources, workshops and individualized support designed to help them successfully meet certification requirements and prepare for the next stage of their professional journey. The Certification Office helps students understand what is required and connects them with resources designed to support their success, including:
- Certification planning and guidance
- Missouri certification requirements
- Praxis and state assessment information
- Certification application assistance
- Out-of-state certification guidance
- Workshops and informational sessions
- Individual consultations
The Certification Office supports more than 40 state-approved educator preparation programs across the University of Missouri, including programs within:
- Learning, Teaching & Curriculum
- Special Education
- Educational, School & Counseling Psychology
- Information Science & Learning Technologies
- Educational Leadership & Policy Analysis
- Music Education
- Languages, Literatures, and Cultures
- Agricultural Education
Whether students are pursuing their first teaching credential, preparing for school counseling, library media specialist or educational leadership certification, or seeking advanced credentials, the office provides guidance throughout the certification process. In addition to serving current students, the Certification Office assists alumni, school districts and prospective students exploring pathways into education, including individuals pursuing education as a second career.
Collaboration with the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education
The Certification Office serves as an important connection between the University of Missouri and the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE). Through this partnership, the office helps ensure educator preparation programs remain aligned with state requirements and professional standards.
The office reviews and verifies program completion, processes certification recommendations and provides guidance on state policies that impact current and future educators. This close collaboration helps support students, school districts and educational organizations throughout Missouri.
Contact Us
Have questions about certification requirements, assessments or professional certification pathways? Contact the Certification Office at CEHDCert@missouri.edu.
Kevin Botkin
Certification Officer, Office of Clinical Experiences & Partnerships
College of Education & Human Development
email Email
phone 573-882-2184
place 109D Hill Hall