1. Should I take the community college "Introduction to Education" course for transfer to MSU?
Answer: Generally No. This course will not replace any required education course at MSU. The community college "Introduction to Education" class may be a great course and worthwhile for that reason but NOT to transfer to MSU to meet an education requirement here.

2. What courses transfer to meet the "general education" or Integrative Studies requirement at MSU?
Answer: If you attend a Michigan community college, check with your counseling office for a copy of a curricular guide for transfer to MSU; and /or check MSU's Transfer Equivalency website for specific courses that meet the MSU Integrative Studies requirement at: www.transfer.msu.edu

3. Is it really worth applying to the College of Education at MSU as a transfer student?
Answer: Admission to the MSU Teacher Preparation program is competitive but qualified students are readily admitted!  Most transfer applicants that meet the stated minimum requirements for "Direct Transfer" to the College of Education are offered admission to the Teacher Education program. Limited space does exist in some teaching areas thus admission to some majors is more competitive than others.

4. What courses are important to complete prior to matriculation at MSU?
Answer: Integrative studies courses, math courses (students planning to take part in the direct admission process must have completed Intermediate Algebra or place into a higher level math course before matriculation at MSU), introductory courses in subject matter majors and/or minors.

5. When should I take the Basic Skills test?
Answer: During the freshmen year since it is a prerequisite for admission into the College of Education. Go to www.mttc.nesinc.com to register on-line and/or to view test dates, deadlines, and a study guide for the Basic Skills test.

6. How important is technology for Teacher Education candidates?
Answer: Students should be familiar with the web and regularly use email. The College of Education at MSU relies heavily on use of email and web-based information to communicate with students. Students should be proficient in writing and editing at a computer. Students will be using a computer to do the on-line essay for the College of Education application.

Note: College of Education students at MSU are expected to have a laptop computer with wireless capability.  For more information see the Laptop Computer Requirement (PDF) on the College of Education website, under Info for Students.

7. Can students meet with an advisor in the College of Education before coming to MSU?
Answer: Yes, students who would like an advising appointment can call our office at (517) 353-9680 to request a phone or in-person appointment. Secondary education students should also plan to meet with an advisor for the major area they wish to teach (such as mathematics, English, the foreign languages, science areas, Interdisciplinary Social Science, etc.). Call the MSU operator at 517 355 1855 and request to be transferred to the department of the major area for assistance in making an appointment.

8. When should I apply to MSU?
Answer: Apply as early as possible. Transfer students can apply as early as one year before they wish to transfer. However, at least 30 semester credits should be completed before applying, with enrollment in at least 12 additional credits. The Office of Admissions will determine whether a student is eligible for the direct transfer admission process and send eligible students a College of Education supplemental application. Since a limited number of transfer spaces are available, it is advantageous to apply early.

9. Any other advice to transfer students?
Answer: Students should get experience working with the population of students they would like to teach (e.g. through tutoring, camp counseling, volunteering in schools, coaching, etc.). Applicants must list their experiences related to teaching or working with youth or children and are expected to incorporate relevant personal examples when they write the required essay during the application process. The College of Education is particularly committed to admitting teacher candidates interested to work in the urban setting.