Initial Teacher Licensure Recommendation

Program Objectives

This program is designated for those individuals who have already completed a bachelor’s degree and are now seeking a teaching license. This status is used for individuals who are not eligible to seek a second bachelor’s degree in their sought teaching endorsement area. Contact the Director of Alternative Pathways, prior to submitting an online graduate application, to determine correct status. Individuals seeking recommendation must hold a bachelor’s degree and complete the Licensure Evaluation Assessment Tool (LEAT).

Please Note: Montana State University does not issue the teaching license to completers of our teacher education program. However, once successfully completed, a recommendation for a teaching license will be given to the Montana Office of Public Instruction, who issues teaching licenses in Montana. This recommendation is not a certificate and will not be listed on a student’s transcript.  

Program Requirements

  • Must hold a bachelor’s degree
  • Complete the Licensure Endorsement Assessment Tool (LEAT) prior to submitting an online application
  • Complete an MSU Application for Initial Teacher Licensure Recommendation program
  • Adhere to the MSU Teacher Education Requirements.

How to Apply

Contact the Office of Alternative Pathways and complete the LEAT process to pre-determine status. To apply for Initial Teacher Licensure Recommendation complete the Online Application for Admission through the Montana State University Graduate School. Select the following when submitting an application:

  1. Admission Type: “Non-Degree”
  2. Program Choice: “Initial Teacher Licensure Recommendation”
  3. Submit official transcript showing the completion of  bachelor's degree. Official transcripts are those sent directly from your previous university to MSU. Applicants who are alumni of MSU-Bozeman do not need to submit official transcripts; however, applicants should upload unofficial transcripts during the application process
  4. Complete and submit the application and $70.00 application fee.  It is recommended that the online application be submitted at least 10 working days prior to the start of the semester.  

Note: The Initial Teacher Licensure Recommendation program is financial aid eligible. 

Contact Information

Dr. Molly Cashion, Director
Office of Alternative Pathways
MSU Department of Education, Reid Hall 242
Email: molly.cashion@montana.edu
Phone: 406-994-6743