The Stanford Teacher Education Program (STEP) strives to prepare expert teachers for leadership within and beyond the classroom. Our program integrates high-quality academics with a well-supported classroom placement, and our teacher candidates are dedicated to excellence and equity for all students.
This 12-month, full-time, in-person course of study prepares future teacher leaders at the elementary and secondary levels and leads to a master of arts in education and a preliminary California teaching credential. The program combines academic coursework with a full school year of field experience in public school placements.
The program takes an approach to teaching and learning that is sensitive to the family, community, and political contexts of education; focused on the needs and development of diverse learners; and grounded in the study of subject matter that enables inquiry, critical thinking, problem solving, and high academic achievement.
Learning at a research university means that teacher candidates see up close how universities and school sites connect in theory and practice. Our expert faculty make the learning experience rigorous. Our small cohort sizes, variety of placement opportunities in the Bay Area, and close mentoring by STEP supervisory staff and cooperating teachers make the learning experience personal.
STEP candidates bring a strong dedication to social justice and equity, a desire to work compassionately and constructively with youth, and a commitment to teaching as a profession. They also seek strong academic preparation and leadership development in a collegial, supportive environment.
STEP graduates are known for their thorough preparation, commitment to equity and excellence, and high standards for all learners. Hiring schools seek out STEP graduates, who join a strong network of professional peers and become leaders in the field of education.
Are you a teacher educator interested in bringing a team to learn more about STEP, interact with STEP faculty, and work together to envision enhancements to your own program in the company of colleagues? Stanford University hosts the week-long iSTEP Institute each spring.
To learn more about requirements for admission to STEP, please visit the Application Requirements page on the admissions website.
To learn more about the cost of the program and options for financial support, please visit Financing STEP on the admissions website.
For more information on the application process, contact STEP Student Services Officer and Credential Analyst Michaela Ruiz at maruiz@stanford.edu. To attend STEP admissions webinars (May-November), visit the admissions event page.
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