The Teaching Assistant certificate provides you with the foundation to work as a teaching assistant in public and private schools. Teaching assistants work in the classroom to provide direct instructional support to students under the supervision of a licensed teacher. The entire program can be completed online, in a traditional classroom, or a combination of both, and is a great option for those looking to quickly get into a classroom setting.

The program specifically prepares students for the teaching assistant profession. Coursework in the program also may be applied directly to the Early Childhood A.A.S. program.

This program is primarily designed for those who wish to enter the workforce immediately following graduation.

This program is offered by the Education and Social Sciences Department.

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Teaching Assistant Certificate

Teaching Assistant Certificate

The Teaching Assistant certificate program fulfills the educational requirements for teaching assistant certification in New York State.
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Take Note

Individuals who already work in an early childhood classroom or registered day care setting may have a funding source to pay for part or all of their tuition. The state's Child Care Educational Incentive Program (EIP) is a scholarship program that helps child care providers pay for training and educational activities with the intent to build provider knowledge, skills, and competencies in order to improve the quality of child care. 

In addition to completing this certificate, NYS Assistant Certification (Level III) requires the following workshops, training, exams and clearances:

  • Child Abuse Identification, School Violence Intervention and Prevention workshops
  • DASA clearance (BOCES)
  • Fingerprint clearance
  • Assessment of Teaching Assistant Skills (ATAS) Exam

Learn more at the NYSED.gov Office of Teaching Initiatives Teaching Assistant Certificates webpage.

Explore Related Careers

NOTE: Additional educational requirements and/or certifications may be needed for some careers.

Student in graduation attire in the classroom
The Center for Careers and Transfer provides career resources and services and help in identifying your skills and interests and how they connect to career possibilities. Transfer counseling services are also available and a list of transfer agreements are posted.

Get in Touch

Department or program information:

Elizabeth A. Yanoff, Ph.D.
Education and Social Sciences DEPARTMENT CHAIRPERSON

Program admission information:

Guenther Enrollment Services Center, Room 223