LMU Teach For America
For more than 20 years, LMU has been Teach for America’s trusted educational partner in California. Our credential and master's programs will give you the knowledge and skills to become a transformative educator in diverse schools and communities.
Read MoreWelcome to LMU!
Our credential and master's programs will prepare you to support your students academically, socially, and emotionally as they work to reach their highest potential. And we're here to support you during your entire journey as a Teach for America Corps member.
Students here enjoy many off- and on-campus perks, included but not limited to:
- Expert faculty who cultivate transformative teachers and educational leaders
- Close guidance from academic advisors, fieldwork specialists, and other staff as you develop your skills in the classroom
- Lifelong support from our Office of Career and Professional Development
- Career opportunities available through LMU's exclusive partnership with the Los Angeles Rams
- Academic and social supports such as the William H. Hannon Library, campus recreation facilities, and many other student wellness resources
Grounded in the Jesuit and Marymount tradition of commitment to social justice, we acknowledge our collective responsibility to and for one another in an inclusive global society. We hope you'll join hundreds of our TFA alumni who are making a positive impact in California and beyond.
What Our Students Say
I moved from New York City to Los Angeles to pursue my teaching credential and master’s degree at LMU. It’s been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. As a person of color, I am deeply committed to showing my students that they, too, can become educators and see themselves in positions of leadership and influence. The TFA program at LMU has pushed me to reflect critically on my practice, sharpen my instructional approach, and continuously grow as an educator.
—Gabriel Moran, M.A. ’26
Completing my dual teaching credential and M.A. in Special Education through LMU while serving with Teach For America has been a transformative experience. The program connects theory to practice, and equips me with culturally responsive, research-based strategies I could apply immediately in my special education classroom. With support from professors who genuinely understand the realities of K-12 education, I am growing not only as an educator, but as an advocate committed to inclusive, asset-based learning for students with disabilities.
—Landren Gipson, M.A ’26
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 Deadlines
- January 15, 2026 - early applications due (encouraged)
- May 1, 2026 - all applications due
- June 1, 2026 - all CTC credential documents must be completed
Upcoming Program Start Date
- June 2026 (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 scholarship support from both Teach For America and LMU School of Education. These scholarships can be used to cover a portion of your tuition. Refer to the flyer for additional details.
We encourage you to apply for additional aid or loans to offset costs beyond tuition, such as living expenses and fees. Other examples of aid and financial support include grants and federal loan forgiveness programs after graduation. Please note 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 available to our students, as well as financing options for any expenses not covered by your tuition scholarship. Visit the Graduate Student Cost of Attendance site for additional details about non-tuition costs and fees.
If you're applying for additional types of state and federal aid, including loans, you must 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