FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

FOR THE EDUCATION PREPARATION INSTITUTE
of Hillsborough Community College 

How long does it take to complete the EPI program?

The program is designed to be completed in six to eight months. Coursework is sequential, competency-based, and founded on the Florida Educator's Accomplished Practices (FEAPs) and the Professional Educator Competencies (PECs).

What is the cost of the program and is financial aid available?

The approximate cost of $2,119.53 is to be paid in increments over the duration of the program with course fees due at time of registration. Fees can fluctuate based on changes in HCC per credit hour charges. Additional fees are charged for Florida DOE applications/exams and a Hillsborough County School District background check. Financial aid is available for students who qualify.

Are EPI course fees refundable?

Course fees are refundable when the required, completed paperwork is submitted to HCC Adminssions Office within the published time frame - normally three business days after the first day of the class to be dropped.

Are EPI courses transferable?

Since EPI courses are for institutional credit only, credits will not transfer into a degree program. However, EPI courses completed at HCC may be transferred to an EPI program offered at a participating community college in Florida.

Does the EPI program provide help with job placement?

Formal assistance is not provided, however, website and recruitment information for local public school systems is made available. Additional networking can occur with the course instructors since many of them are current or recently retired local school principals and/or administrators. EPI coursework information will include instruction in how to create a winning resume and make a lasting impression during an interview.

What are the requirements for the Field Experiences courses?

Field Experience 0940 (one credit) and Field Experience 0945 (one credit) provide a hands-on approach to in-field learning through observations and teaching in actual classroom settings supervised by a certified teacher.

Teacher candidates attend three class sessions with the Field Experience instructor. The first session is EPI 0940 Orientation which occurs within the first week of the EPI program; the second session is the Field Experience Support Meeting which occurs prior to the start of Field Experience 0945; and the third session is EPI 0945 Culmination which occurs approximagely six weeks prior to the conclusion of the EPI program.

Teacher candidates must be fingerprinted, which involves a background check, prior to the start of Field Experience. A minimum of 30 clock hours will be spent in a classroom setting over the six to eight months that the teacher candidate is enrolled in the EPI program.

What is a Personal Professional Development Plan (PPDP) meeting?

The PPDP outlines and details the steps potential teachers take toward becoming eligible for a Florida teaching certificate. This hour-long, casual, interactive, group session helps the teacher candidate assess accomplishments and set goals for program completion through a thorough discussion of the Exit interview requirements. Participation is a program requirement. 

What is a cohort?

Webster's Dictionary defines a cohort as a group of people united in an effort. EPI establishes a cohort of 20 to 25 program participants who enroll at the same time and take the same courses as they progress toward program completion. Program activities provide ample opportunity for cohort participants to learn from each other as they brainstorm creative ideas and relate valuable classroom experiences thus establishing the beginnings of an educators' network.

What is a hybrid course?

Hybrid courses incorporate an online classroom component as part of the learning experience. The time spent in the online classroom can range from 50 to 75% of the overall contact hours. Currently three courses in HCC's EPI program are hybrid courses. These courses are Professional Foundations, Technology, and Diversity.

What is an official Statement of Eligibility and how do I get one?

An official Statement of Eligibility (SOE) is a document that lists requirements necessary to become eligible to receive a Temporary and/or Professional Florida Teaching Certificate. It is based on the Florida Department of Education's (FLDOE) Application for Certification and a valid college transcript. Obtaining an SOE is required to teach grades K-12 in Florida. Additional application information can be found at http://www.fldoe.org/edcert.

If I am currently working full-time as a teacher with a temporary certificate, can I participate in the program? Also, since I am already teaching full-time do I need to take the Field Experience courses?

Those currently working as full-time teachers with temporary teaching certificates are welcome to enroll in the EPI program. ALL EPI students are required to pass the two field experience courses regardless of current employment as a full-time teacher.

How do I study for the General Knowledge test, the Professional Education test and subject area test(s)?

Study guides are available for purchase at major book stores and via the internet. Details about date, location and costs are found at www.fl.nesinc.com.

If I have passed all sections of the Florida Teacher Certification Exams (FTCE), do I still need to complete the EPI program before I apply for a Florida Teaching Certificate?

Yes. EPI is an alternative certification program designed to provide coursework that would normally be the essence of an education degree. EPI preparation of students, combined with passing exam scores makes them eligible to apply for a Florida teaching certificate.

How do I enroll in the program?

Call (813) 253-7983 to schedule an interview with the Program Director, Dr. Mary Ann Ratliff. Information needed to help you take the initial steps toward preparing for a career as an educator will be provided!!