Elementary (K-8) & Early Childhood Education, AA-DTA

Associate in Arts DTA (AA-DTA)

The Education department recommends that a student planning to transfer to a four-year university or college to pursue a degree in K-8 or secondary education, early childhood education, or children studies earn an associate in arts degree. While earning the associate in arts degree, the student should take required coursework for teacher preparation and/or basic studies. Since requirements vary by four-year institution, please see an education advisor to ensure that courses taken will meet requirements. For additional information on teacher preparation programs, go to www.teachwashington.org.

All students planning to transfer to a four-year institution for teacher preparation must pass the WEST-B basic skills test prior to admission to a four-year education program. For information about the test, to download a study guide, or to sign up for the test, visit www.nesinc.com.

WEST-B Information

Individuals seeking admision to a state approved educator preparation program are required to take the Washington Educator Skills Test - Basic (WEST B) for admission into a teacher preparation program.  The assessment includes three sub-tests:  reading, writing, mathematics.  Alternatively, teacher preparation candidates may submit evidence of taking an assessment deemed of equal rigor by PESB, such as the SAT or ACT, in lieu of the WEST -B.  The https://www.pesb.wa.gov/preparation-programs/assessments/basic-skills-assessment-west-b/ provides information about SAT and ACT.