A program is a planned sequence of courses and school-based experiences for preparing PK-12 teachers and other professional school personnel. These courses and school-based experiences lead to a recommendation for an Arizona provisional certificate to work in the State’s schools.

A State Board Approved Educator Preparation Program is a state-approved course of study, the completion of which signifies that a candidate has met all state education and/or training requirements for provisional certification or licensure to work in the State’s pre-kindergarten, elementary or secondary schools. Upon completion of the program, the candidate is issued an Institutional Recommendation (IR).

College of Education

What is meant by (IR) Institutional Recommendation (Eligible for Credential)?

A program that leads to an Institutional Recommendation (IR) allows the graduate of that program to be “eligible for a credential” in that specific area of study. If a program is eligible for credential, it leads to a certificate that is recognized in Arizona (e.g., a teacher certificate or principal certificate). According to the Arizona Department of Education, the purpose of an IR is to verify the completion of an approved program in order to obtain a teaching or administrative certificate. An IR must be completed and signed by the institutions’ designated individual.

1. For a certificate in a state other than Arizona, teacher candidates should apply to their respective state department of education.
2. For a certificate in Arizona, the candidate must provide anInstitutional Recommendation (IR) form completed by the candidate and signed by the College of Education Dean, along with a passing score on the AEPA and an application fee. The Institutional Recommendation (Eligible for Credential) programs of study offered in the College of Education meet the teacher certification requirements outlined by the Arizona Department of Education.

**All students are required to check with their respective state Department of Education for determining the certification requirements of their state.