Computer Science for Teachers Graduate Certificate

The Computer Science Endorsement at Georgia College & State University is a four-course sequence leading to Professional Standards Commission endorsement. The program will explore a variety of computer science topics including Python programming. Upon completion of the four courses, candidates will be referred to the PSC to add the endorsement to their certification. Each week there will be readings, discussions, quizzes, and other activities. There are also final exams and final projects as part of the endorsement. Note that prior computer science proficiency is not required for these courses. Just a basic knowledge of how to use a computer.

Certification Requirements

Admissions Requirements

For Georgia College & State University

  • University Admissions Form
  • Two professional recommendations
  • Official transcripts from all colleges/universities attended
  • GPA between 2.5 and 2.74 from a regionally accredited university
  • Verification of Immunization

If Seeking Professional Standards Commission Endorsement

  • To be eligible for the PSC Computer Science Endorsement the applicant must hold a level four (4) or higher renewable professional certificate in any P-12 or secondary (6-12) teaching field and complete other requirements outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.14 ENDORSEMENTS.
  • To be eligible for the Supplemental Induction Computer Science Endorsement the applicant must hold a level four (4) or higher Induction P-12 or secondary (6-12) certificate in any teaching field and complete other requirements outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.14 ENDORSEMENTS.

In-Field Statement (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.40 IN-FIELD ASSIGNMENT). An individual with the optional Computer Science endorsement has strengthened and enhanced competency levels for teaching computer science skills in grades P-12. Each state-approved curriculum course, with specified certificate fields that are designated as in-field, may be found under Certification/Curriculum Assignment Policies (CAPS) on the GaPSC web site at www.gapsc.com.

Our Team

Computer Science for Teachers Graduate Certificate

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Dr. Joe Peters

Dr. Joe Peters

Dean
220C Kilpatrick Education Center
478-445-2518
Education

PhD., Science Education & Research Methodology, University of Pittsburgh

Research

Cultural Diversity, Higher Education Leadership

Biography

Dr. Joe Peters is the Dean of Education at Georgia College & State University in Milledgeville, GA. He has oversight for two departments including Teacher Education (Early Childhood, Middle Grades, Secondary, Special, and Pre-Education programs) and Professional Learning and Innovation (Literacy/ Reading/Language, Instructional Technology/Library Media, Foundations, Educational Leadership programs) as well as the Call Me MISTER program at Georgia College and Early College (Grades 7-12) in partnership with Baldwin and Putnam County Georgia Public Schools. Dr. Peters graduated with a Ph.D in science education with a research methodology minor in 1990 and joined the University of West Florida faculty as a professor of science education. At UWF, he was the Chair of Teacher Education, Associate Dean for Educator Preparation, and Coordinator of the University’s Doctoral Program. During the 2007/2008 academic year, he was mentored by The University of Florida President Bernie Machen as an American Council on Education Fellow. Prior to Georgia College, he spent time at Northern Marianas College in Saipan and as Dean of Education at Chaminade University (2011-2015). He joined Georgia College as Dean on January 1, 2015. Prior to his higher education experience, Dr. Peters spent three years on active duty in the Army from 1975-1978 where he completed his GED. He subsequently attended Mercyhurst College where he graduated summa cum laude with a B.A. in elementary education in 1982. He taught grades K8 physical education and grades 5-8 science before returning to graduate in 1984 with his dual master’s degree in both natural sciences and environmental education at Gannon University. He then taught high school science in the Erie, Pennsylvania Public School District until 1987 when he began teaching assistant and research associate positions at the University of Pittsburgh. Dr. Peters was direct commissioned in the Army Reserve as a First Lieutenant in 1988 and promoted to Captain in 1992. His military service includes assignments as an Environmental Science Officer, MASH Company Commander, and Civil Affairs Public Education Officer. Dr. Peters’ past community service includes participation as executive director representative to the Council of Scientific Society Presidents, North American representative to the International Council of Associations for Science Education, Executive Director of the Association for Science Teacher Education, Public Relations representative and President of the East-West Toastmasters in Hawaii, member of the Macon, GA Toastmasters, participation with the Pensacola Chamber of Commerce Leadership Pensacola program, assistant scoutmaster, numerous Teacher of the Year Committees, serving on the Massage Therapy Advisory Council for Pensacola State College, Secretary and President of the Milledgeville, GA Rotary, President of the Georgia Association of Colleges for Teacher Education, and many other education boards and committees. He currently serves as a board member of the American Council on Education Fellows, Oconee Regional Educational Service Agency, Sandra Dunagan Deal Center for Early Language and Literacy, and Lockerly Arboretum as well as volunteering with the Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office.

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SBrand headshot

Ms. Shanda Brand

Director of Graduate Programs
217A Kilpatrick Hall
478-445-1383