In order to begin teaching, Memphis corps members are required to take and pass exams called The PRAXIS Series: Professional Assessments for Beginning Teachers. Specific tests vary according to position.
All Memphis corps members become certified within two years through a partnership with the University of Memphis or Christian Brothers University. In addition, corps members can choose to earn a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) in two to three years and two additional courses.
Corps members generally spend three to six hours in class a week during the school year, and those participating in the master's program spend an additional 6-12 hours per week during the summer. Both the certification and master's programs take two years to complete and costs about $3,000 to $3,500 per year. Most corps members currently are able to repay the entire cost of tuition each year with their AmeriCorps education awards, which amount to $4,725 per year.
| Costs to Begin Teaching |
|---|
| Testing: $350-400 |
| Processing: N/A |
| Up-front Certification Program Cost: $3000 (offset by AmeriCorps Education Award) |
| Costs to Maintain Emergency Credential |
|---|
| N/A |