Is PPP Right for You? The Answer Is “Yes” if You’ve:

  • Are currently employed as a paraprofessional or school support professional in a Nevada public or charter school
  • Gotten permission from school administration to complete the program and conduct student teaching hours in the classroom
  • Are interested in working in early childhood education (birth-2nd grade), elementary education (K-8), or special education (K-12)
  • Are comfortable working in a fast-paced, dynamic learning environment
  • You have earned 60+ college credits or an associates degree from a regionally accredited institution and have completed all general education requirements.
    • After you apply, your official transcripts will be reviewed by the College of Education’s Education Student Services Center (ESSC) to evaluate any missing general education requirements. Applicants must complete these requirements* to qualify for admission into PPP.
    • Note: *If you already have an associate’s degree (i.e., AA, AS, or AB) from a NSHE institution (e.g., CSN) the general education requirements may be waived.

PPP was initiated in 2020 by UNLV College of Education Dean Danica G. Hays and UNLV President Keith Whitfield. In 2023, the NV|Forward Apprenticeship Programs (including PPP) became the state's first registered apprenticeship in teaching through the Department of Labor, allowing program students to earn degrees while maintaining employment. Through partnerships with more than 15 school/district employer partners, NV|Forward’s programs serve future educators — and the students in their classrooms — across the state. Since its inception, PPP has supported more than 480 students on their journey to become licensed, full time teachers in Nevada schools with nearly 160 of those students currently leading classrooms of their own.

Cohort Model

In our cohort approach, a group of 75-100 students advance through the program together, building relationships and nurturing communities of learners. When we prepare diverse educators in supportive groups, we can leverage each student’s rich and unique experiences and support each other along the way.

Accelerated Curriculum

This program moves fast – students may complete their degree and begin a full-time teaching career in about a year.

Built for Working Professionals

Rather than semester-long classes found in traditional undergraduate programs, program courses are offered in a variety of online and in-person formats tailored to meet student needs by program area. The balance of online and in-person class formats are tailored to the needs of working professionals while maintaining a quality learning experience. 

Professional Development

The program offers world-class professional development, offering new perspectives and ideas with guest speakers, workshops, and other learning opportunities outside of the classroom.

Microcredentialing

Microcredential courses, which allow teachers to learn and demonstrate specific skills like English language learning, STEM education and data analytics, are available to help you stay on top of our constantly evolving educational landscape.

Mentoring and Induction

Thanks to a partnership between the Clark County Education Association, the Public Education Foundation, CCSD, UNLV, and other partners, we’ll provide support services and mentoring for your first three years as a classroom teacher. 

Financial Assistance Available

Depending on your situation, you may be eligible to have your program costs covered once you are admitted to UNLV and accepted into the PPP program.

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis for Summer, Fall, and Spring cohort starts. .

A group of people posing for a graduation picture in front of a backdrop that says "UNLV College of Education"

Already have a bachelor’s degree? No worries! The may be an option for you.

Contacts

Questions about PPP Admissions? The NV|Forward Team manages the PPP program. .

Have questions about applying to UNLV? Please contact UNLV Admissions.