Jump to main content

blue and gold logo certificate in college teaching

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions not addressed in the FAQ refer to the CCT Handbook. If your questions are not addressed in the handbook please email your question(s) to the CCT coordinator or to cetl@unco.edu.

How long does it take to complete the CCT?  

The maximum amount of time you can take to complete the CCT is two years, but you can finish it any time within a two-year timeframe. How long it takes will depend on your other commitments (research, teaching, courses, work, etc.).  

How much time should I expect to spend on the CCT?  

You should expect to spend 3-5 hours on each foundational module. The syllabus design and course design projects will take longer because they require development of course elements. Similarly, the teaching philosophy and diversity statement writing process will take at least enough time to answer reflection questions and write one draft. The teaching observation requires you to observe at least one class period (50 minutes or 75 minutes) and reflect on your observation. The teaching experience involves preparing and delivering a college-level lesson and reflecting after.  

Can I participate in the CCT if I have ONLY one year left in my program? 

CETL recommends considering how much time you have to dedicate to the CCT while you finish your degree program’s requirements. If you feel you have enough time to complete four foundational modules, design a syllabus and course elements for a college-level course, draft a teaching philosophy and diversity statement, and conduct a teaching observation and experience in one year, you may participate.  

Two-Year Timeline (recommended)

  • Fall Semester: Complete at least 2 foundational modules
  • Spring Semester: Complete at least 2 foundational modules
  • Summer/Fall Semester: Complete equity-minded syllabus project, course design project, diversity statement, teaching philosophy
  • Spring Semester: Complete teaching observation and teaching experience 

One-Year Timeline

  • Fall Semester: Complete 4 foundational modules, equity-minded syllabus project, and course design project
  • Spring Semester: Complete teaching philosophy, diversity statement, teaching observation, and teaching experience 
 Do I have to pay for the CCT? 

No, the CCT is free for all students enrolled in a graduate program at UNC. 

 Do I have to take courses to complete the CCT? 

 No, all CCT requirements are completed using resources provided by CETL in the CCT Canvas page.  

 Can the CCT be completed remotely? 

Yes, the CCT can be completed remotely. The teaching observation and teaching experience would likely be completed using Zoom if you are not on/near campus. All other requirements can be completed asynchronously. 

Do I need to be teaching to participate in the CCT? 

No, you do not need to have a teaching assignment to participate. When you do your teaching experience you can ask a colleague if you may do a guest lecture in their class, or CETL can set up a mock classroom for you.