Canadian Post-Baccalaureate Teacher Education Program

Canadian Post-Baccalaureate Teacher Education Program at UMPI

UMPI’s Canadian Post-Baccalaureate Teacher Education Program offers Canadian students a clear, affordable path to teaching certification in the US. Designed for individuals with a bachelor’s degree in a certifiable field, this program offers online and in-person learning, culminating in a teaching certificate through the Maine Department of Education.

A plan is designed for each student utilizing the courses taken in the previous degree. The graduate is eligible for certification through the Maine Department of Education. The University of Maine at Presque Isle offers education programs in the following areas:

• Elementary Education (K – 8)
• Secondary Education (7 – 12) with concentrations in
  • English
  • Social Studies
  • Mathematics
  • Life Science
  • Physical Science
• Physical Education (K – 12)

Why Choose UMPI for Teacher Education?

1. Flexible Online Learning and Local Placements

• Complete coursework online while living in Canada.
• Student teaching placements are available in Canada at approved locations, providing practical experience close to home.

2. Personalized Study Plans for Certification

• Each student’s previous coursework is evaluated to design an individualized study path, ensuring that program requirements align with Maine certification standards.
• Graduates who become certified in Maine receive a letter of professional standing for their provinces

Affordable Canadian Tuition Rates

• Canadian students benefit from special tuition rates, making UMPI’s program more affordable than many US-based options.

Experienced Faculty and Interactive Learning

• UMPI’s education faculty blend theory and practice, bringing real-world insights from K-12 teaching. Small class sizes foster engagement with professors and peers.

Program Structure and Requirements

The Post-Baccalaureate Teacher Education Program includes two options for course completion: a 45-credit and a 60-credit extended program. Students can expect to complete the program in 18-24 months, depending on the chosen credit track and any additional content courses required.

Program Schedule

The table below demonstrates how a post-baccalaureate student may achieve eligibility for teacher certification in Maine by studying at UMPI. Extra content courses needed for certification in specific endorsement areas in Maine are not included. A transcript analysis for each individual student is done by program staff to determine content courses needed. Content courses may be taken at the University of Maine at Presque Isle, if available. Eligibility for teacher certification also requires fingerprinting and criminal background check in Maine.

Post-Baccalaureate Teacher Education Program
Elementary and Secondary Education
(For 45 credits or 60-hour extended credit program)

Sequence of courses	45 credit hour program	60 credit hour program
First Semester	15-18 credits	18 credits
Second Semester	15-18 credits	18 credits
May-June Semester (Taken at completion or in midst of coursework)	–	Take up to 12 credits
Final SemesterMay be done in the student’s home province at approved sitesSupervised by UMPI professional education staffIncludes pre-student teaching seminars and materials	12 credits	12 credits

Fingerprinting Requirement

All students are required to have your fingerprints taken prior to field experience in area schools and before being issued any type of Maine Department of Education certification. You must have your fingerprints taken through a process approved by the Maine Department of Education. This process can be completed once you arrive on campus.  Information regarding fingerprinting in Maine is available at: https://www.identogo.com/. There is a $55.00 fee for the fingerprinting services.

What Canadian students say about their UMPI experience

“The small school atmosphere here is wonderful and creates some real opportunities for close interaction with professors. I’ve been really impressed with the education faculty. They keep up-to-date with the latest trends in education and believe strongly in the constructivist theory, which focuses on the active role of the learner and encourages hands-on, minds-on learning. I’ve also been impressed with the number of activities on campus. Coming from a major city, I was unclear what kind of social life might be available. But the campus has a very active Student Activities Board that brings a lot of bands, movies, and other entertainment to campus on a regular basis. The campus also has some very active clubs and organizations, and the Outdoor Adventure Program really spices up the winter! Attending UMPI was a major decision. I believe that I am receiving a quality education with a personal touch.” –Lea Lamoureux from Dartmouth, Nova Scotia.

“Almost 20 years after earning my B.A., my desire to become a teacher led me to the University of Maine. At UMPI I found the support I needed to succeed, not only as a mature student, but also as a Canadian attending an American university. Emphasis is given to making the transition as smooth as possible, and your experience a positive one.” –Kelly McFadden from Russell, Ontario.

“UMPI has provided me with the necessary skills and knowledge that are needed to become successful in today’s teaching environment. The small campus and small classes made getting to know your professors and peers much easier and more relaxed. The entire Education Department at the University honestly cares about your success in the program, and they all do whatever they can to help you along the way.” –Robert Baldwin from Sydney, Nova Scotia.

“Thanks to the University of Maine at Presque Isle, I was able to obtain the education I needed to achieve my career goal of becoming an elementary teacher. In addition, UMPI provided me with a small classroom setting in which learning was optimized, and professors and faculty members were approachable and helpful. I am currently teaching in the Northwest Territories, where I am putting to use the skills and knowledge I gained during my education at UMPI.” –Kelly Andrews from Lakefield, Ontario.

“My experience of the Education Program at the University of Maine at Presque Isle was very rewarding and enabled me to obtain a job at the completion of the program. The small campus atmosphere created a productive learning community that encourages teamwork and higher learning. UMPI has instilled in me the confidence and skills necessary to be successful in the world today.” –Melissa Fouger from Victoria Mines, Nova Scotia.

The UMPI Advantage for Canadian Students

Located near New Brunswick, UMPI offers Canadian students a unique blend of a safe campus environment and numerous outdoor recreational activities, including skiing, snowshoeing, and camping. Plus, with UMPI’s support for immigration procedures, students experience a seamless transition into the US educational system.

Key Benefits

• Proximity to Canada
• Small class sizes for personal interaction
• Student-focused support for US immigration
• A range of campus activities, including cultural events and outdoor adventures