On May 1, 1984, it became a requirement for all persons applying for entrance into teacher education programs to pass a basic skills test in reading, writing, and mathematics (TASP). Further, on May 1, 1986, it also became a requirement for all graduates of teacher and administrator training programs who apply for State Certification to pass proficiency tests in their field(s) of certification or endorsement (ExCET). Only eligible candidates may attempt the ExCET test. A candidate is eligible if he/she:

• has completed a certification program, or is in the last semester of a certification program.
• is enrolled in his/her last semester of a certification program on the testing date for which he/she has registered
• is enrolled in the spring semester prior to the summer of completion of all program requirements on the testing date for which he/she has registered.

A person who wishes to take the ExCET test must receive a letter from his/her Faculty Chair verifying eligibility to take it. The letter must be filed with the Associate Dean for Student Services and Teacher Certification (Room EB 131 of the College of Education Building) before taking the ExCET test. Scores will be withheld for persons whose eligibility has not been verified.

Any individual with a record of committing a crime against a child, or with a history of such crimes, will not be certified to teach by the Texas Education Agency.

In summary, interested students must gain admission to the University; must pass all three parts of the TASP test; and must satisfy all entry requirements stated above related to Teacher Education and Certification. Each student admitted is assigned a faculty advisor based upon area of specialty. Questions about the Teacher Education and Certification Program may be directed to the Office of Student Services and Teacher Certification at (713)313-7435 as referenced above.