Alternative Licensure Program

The Alternative Teacher Licensure Program (ALP) is accredited by the New Mexico Public Education Department (NMPED). ALP is a post graduate program for individuals who already hold a minimum of a bachelor’s degree, but have not completed a traditional educator preparation program.

Students may select a program in Elementary Education, Secondary Education, or in Special Education. Upon successful completion of the program and passing scores on the required State of New Mexico Teacher Assessments, students will receive a Level 1 license with the NMPED.

It is expected for our ALP teacher candidates to live the “ICare” values of SJC and uphold standards of professional conduct in all forms of communication with SJC staff, SJC faculty, and all community partners.

Candidate Requirements

Candidates must have a bachelor’s degree or higher.

Your transcript will be reviewed by an ALP team member to ensure it has the required credit that pertains to the licensure area.

Upload the following required documents in the online application form:

Transcripts: an unofficial copy of your transcript(s) with a completed Transcript Analysis Form.
Resume: a copy of your current resume
Letter of interest: that details your interest in the program and why you are interested in becoming a teacher; which track you intend to take (elementary, secondary [include subject area], or special education), your prior employment, and any previous experiences related to the teaching profession.
Recommendation Letter: a recommendation letter for admission to the program. This letter should be from a person who can speak to your character, abilities, and accomplishments to enter the teaching profession.
A copy of intent to hire or hiring contract with School District.

Incomplete applications can slow the application process down considerably, so please make certain that your application is complete.

Successfully complete required coursework (maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5) within the two-year state time limit
Achieve a grade of at least a “B” in your Supervised Field Experience

Upon completion of the program pass all remaining required state licensure requirements.

Apply to San Juan College. This is a separate application from the ALP application. Both Applications must be completed.

Select "returning" student if you have previously taken courses at SJC.
Submit a copy of your transcripts for your Bachelor's degree and transcripts from all other colleges/universities attended.

Learn how to submit your transcripts

Complete the ALP Application.
Please refer to the list of required documents before applying to the program.

Once you have submitted the entire application, contact the ALP team to confirm your application has been received and schedule the interview.
The interview is about an hour long. If all requirements have been met, you will receive a letter of acceptance. This letter will allow the NM Public Education Department to issue you a two-year provisional license.