LMU Teach For America
For more than 20 years, LMU has provided a dynamic Master of Arts and intern credential teaching pathway to LMU Teach For America California Corps Members who strive to make a difference in educational communities.
Read MoreWelcome to LMU!
As you begin your journey as a Teach For America Corps member, we strive to support you every step of the way in reaching your goals.
Our expert faculty bridge theory and practice, focusing on your role not just as a teacher, but as a community leader and an advocate for all students. Our experienced staff alongside faculty and fieldwork support specialists provide guidance and feedback as you cultivate your skills as an educator. Our program prepares you to in turn support your students academically, socially, and emotionally as they work to reach their highest potential.
Grounded in the Jesuit and Marymount tradition of social justice, the School of Education is committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, and anti-racism; acknowledging our collective responsibility for each other in our global society. Join hundreds of LMU Teach for America alumni who have and continue to make a positive impact in education across California and beyond.
We look forward to working with you!
Our Program Design
It takes just one year to earn your teaching credential at LMU, and you can stay on for an optional second year to earn your master’s degree. This 1+1 design saves you time and money and boosts your earning potential as an educator.
The LMU Difference
Change the World, One Classroom at a Time
Using education as a tool for equity has always been part of LMU’s identity. Here you’ll join a community of passionate educators who are committed to creating a more just future for all students.
Choose Your Own Path
Our program design lets you customize your journey to becoming a teacher. Finish your credential in just one year and stay on for an optional second year to earn a master’s degree in a specialized concentration of your choosing. Our advisors will help you build a plan that fits your career goals.
Legacy of Excellence
For more than 20 years, LMU has partnered with Teach For America to launch the careers of countless inspiring teachers and leaders in education. Our alumni are making a real impact in the field of education across California and beyond.
Network of Support
From the moment you apply, to registering for classes, to navigating tough teaching moments, the team at LMU is here to support you during your program. Our network of advisors, instructors, and mentors assist you in navigating challenges and provide guidance to help address your needs.
Program Options
Elementary and Secondary Options
- M.A. in Transformative Education + Multiple Subject Teaching Credential
- M.A. in Transformative Education + Single Subject Teaching Credential
Special Education Options
- M.A. in Special Education + Ed Specialist Mild to Moderate Support with DUAL option of Elementary Multiple Subject Teaching Credential
- M.A. in Transformative Education + Ed Specialist Mild to Moderate Support with DUAL option of Elementary Multiple Subject Teaching Credential
Bilingual Authorization
- Coursework is included in M.A. in Transformative Education concentration in Language and Culture, or
- Applicable CSET exams
- Language Options: Spanish, Mandarin, Cantonese
Cohort Program?
Yes
Typical Program Length
1-2 years, offered in 1+1 format
Year 1: Credential
Year 2: M.A.
Course Modality/Meeting Times
Online. Synchronous courses meet weekdays in late afternoons and evenings.
Estimated Cost
Please refer to LMU handout provided by TFA.
Upcoming Application Deadlines
- January 5 - early application deadline (encouraged)
- April 5 - all applications due
- May 15 - all CTC credential documents completed deadline
Upcoming Program Start Date
- May 2025 (summer session)
Start Your Journey with LMU
Application Requirements
- Free online application
- Personal statement of intent
- Request for Intern Credential Form
- TFA-LMU agreement
- Official transcripts
- International transcript evaluation (if applicable)
- Request for exception to GPA (if applicable)
- More Details
CTC Intern Requirements
- Subject Matter
- Certificate of Clearance
- U.S. Constitution
- Bachelor’s Degree (regionally accredited) no later than July 31
- Basic Skills (met with B.A. degree)
- TFA Summer Pre-Service
- LMU Summer ELL Course
Scholarships
Each TFA corps member automatically receives a scholarship from LMU School of Education. This scholarship, plus your AmeriCorps award grant/voucher, can be used to cover the cost of tuition for the program.
We also encourage you to apply for additional aid or loans to help offset costs beyond tuition, such as fees and living expenses. Other examples of aid and support include grants and federal loan forgiveness programs after graduation. Please make note of all deadlines for scholarship applications, which may occur before our application deadlines.
Financial Aid
LMU’s Financial Aid office provides information about state and federal financial aid, as well as financing options for any expenses not covered by your LMU tuition scholarship and AmeriCorps grant award/voucher. You can visit the Graduate Student Cost of Attendance site for additional details about non-tuition costs and fees.
Candidates applying for additional types of state and federal aid, including loans, are required to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or California DREAM Act.
Meet Our Faculty
Maryann Krikorian, M.A. ’11, Ph.D.
Clinical Associate Professor
Director of M.A. in Transformative Education Program
Keisha Chin Goosby, Ph.D.
Clinical Assistant Professor
Director of Elementary + Secondary Intern Credential Programs
Diana Límon, M.A. ’92, Ed.D. ’07
Visiting Assistant Professor
Director of Special Education Programs
TFA Alumni
Graduates of LMU’s Teach for America program have gone on to earn positions of impact and influence in education across California and beyond. Here are just a few examples.
Take Your Next Step Today
Our team is happy to assist you. Reach out anytime by phone or email, or book a virtual appointment so we can answer your questions and provide personalized information.
soeteacherprep@lmu.edu
310.258.8791