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.
All teaching assistants in New York State are required to obtain certification, and this program can fulfill that requirement. 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 Teacher Preparation Department.
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Career and Transfer Opportunities



Salaries vary based on position and degree attainment. Here are median salaries taken from the Bureau of Labor Statistics as of 2017: Teaching Assistant, $24,140.
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.
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Summer Hours: Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.