Graduate Certificate in College Teaching (Offered by Higher Education Program)

Deanne Draeger, 2022

Why did you choose to pursue the College Teaching Certificate with a concentration in Higher Education Pedagogy?

I was looking for a program that was relevant to my interests and career goals. I earned my bachelor’s degree in the early 2000s and chose this program as an entry point back into expanding my higher education credentials. I was interested in teaching math at the community college level and decided this was a good place to start. As I began the program, I learned that I really enjoyed learning about higher ed pedagogy.

What did you like best about the structure of the certificate program?

I liked that it was manageable. The courses were both relevant and interesting, and applicable to my career goals. 

Are there faculty or staff members who made a difference during your time in the program?

Kelly Schrum taught the first class that I took – Scholarship of Teaching and Learning. Her class was very engaging and I learned a lot! It was the perfect course to take as I returned to college after earning my bachelor’s many years ago. Her course sparked my interest in researching more about teaching and learning and applying those principles, especially in STEM courses. She remained a mentor to me throughout the program. 

In what ways has the certificate helped you progress toward your career goals or opened new professional opportunities?

Through the certificate program, I discovered my interests in teaching and learning. Once I completed the certificate, I went on to earn my M.S. in Learning Design and Technology at Mason. Ultimately I decided that my heart remains in higher ed and I am currently teaching college math at Northern Virginia Community College (and loving it :).