Teacher education institutions across the United States continue to respond to the recognized need for greater international awareness and understanding among pre-service and inservice teachers. There are over 100 institutions in the United States, which conduct student teaching programs in more than 50 countries with the dual purpose of preparing competent teachers and contributing to worldwide understanding.

About the Program

The UNLV College of Education International Student Teaching Program is an optional experience open to any individual pursuing an elementary, secondary, special education, or early childhood education teaching license. The program is administered through the College of Education's Division of Teacher Education. A faculty coordinator of International Student Teaching provides leadership for the program and serves as the liaison with the various agencies involved. The dean, in cooperation with the University Director of International Programs has the ultimate responsibility for overseeing the program.

Eligibility

Anyone who has completed the academic qualifications for student teaching in the College of Education at the UNLV is eligible to apply for this program.

Cost

Each student is responsible for paying for transportation to and from the international school. Students pay semester tuition to UNLV and are responsible for an additional fee of $350.00 to help defray the costs of the program. UNLV will send a faculty member, whenever possible, to the site as a student teacher supervisor. In some cases, UNLV faculty may be on site as exchange faculty. In other cases, UNLV students may be supervised by qualified host country personnel.

The international school may provide advice concerning room and board arrangements for the student. The student may live with a faculty member, a host family, or in some cases, in a dormitory or private apartment. Housing involves compensation for room and board costs. The UNLV Office of International Programs provides information on scholarship resources to help cover the costs of study abroad and resources that may help with the international student teaching program.

Application Process

The International Student Teaching program in the College of Education is an opportunity that permits future teachers who have completed the academic qualifications for student teaching to apply for student teaching assignment in an international setting.

The length of the experience varies according to the specific situation and culture in which the student is involved; however, no experience is less than twelve weeks in length. Participation is possible during fall and spring.

A minimum nine month lead time is necessary in order to make arrangements. Students are encouraged to apply as early as possible.

Travel Arrangements

Students may leave early and have time to tour before beginning to teach, or they may stay after they conclude their experience. Travel arrangements are made by the student.