ATCP Frequently Asked Questions

HCC ATCP is a state-approved educator preparation program designed for individuals with a bachelor’s degree who want to become certified teachers in Texas. The program provides the training, mentorship, and support needed to enter the classroom as a certified teacher. 

To be eligible, applicants must:

• Hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.

• Have a minimum 2.5 GPA on a 4.0 scale (overall or in the last 60 hours).

No prior teaching experience is required. The program is designed for individuals transitioning into teaching from other fields. 

Most candidates complete the program in 18 to 24 months, depending on their certification area and pace. Although teacher candidates have a maximum of three years to complete all requirements starting with the admission date.

Teacher candidates have three years to complete the program requirements before facing possible dismissal.

The program is in-person.

Yes. Candidates must complete a year-long internship as the teacher of record in the certification area.

An internship involves a year-long contract with an approved TEA private, charter, or public school for one academic year or 180 days as teacher of record. 

The program includes nine course each costing $422 for a total of $3,798.

Candidates may be exited from the program for, but not limited to, the following reasons:

• Failure to maintain satisfactory academic performance (e.g., GPA below 3.0, failing required coursework).

• Inability to meet TEA testing requirements (e.g., failure to pass certification exams after multiple attempts).

• Unsatisfactory performance during field-based experiences.

• Unprofessional conduct or violation of the Educators’ Code of Ethics.

• Failure to adhere to HCC, TEA, and ATCP program policies, attendance, or participation requirements.

• Voluntary withdrawal initiated by the candidate.

Candidates will receive the following:

• Notice of Concern: The candidate will receive written notice outlining the concern(s) and an opportunity to respond or remediate, when appropriate.

• Review Committee: Staff will review the candidate’s status, documentation, and progress before recommending exit.

• Exit Notification: The candidate will receive a formal written notification of dismissal, including the reason(s) for exit and any applicable next steps.

Candidates can appeal the decision within 10 business days of receiving the exit notification. Appeals must be written to the Program Director and include relevant supporting documentation. An impartial panel will review the appeal, and a final decision will be communicated within 15 business days.