Graduate Teaching Scholar Program

Those holding academic faculty positions within a college or university are expected to be active in teaching, discovery, and outreach.  Doctoral education programs have historically emphasized preparation for research and scholarly publications, and for outreach.  However, to some extent many candidates who complete a doctoral program in agricultural and life sciences have minimal preparation and experience in formal teaching.

The primary goal of the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences Graduate Teaching Scholar (GTS) Program is to prepare interested doctoral students for a rewarding academic career.

Now, with the creation of the Graduate Teaching Scholar Program in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, graduate students can hone their teaching skills and build their confidence to become inspiring and well- rounded educators, mentors, and leaders.

“Preparation in research has long been the focus of graduate education,” said Susan Sumner, associate dean and director of academic programs. “This initiative raises the bar for future professors. We want our students to be as bold and creative in the classroom as they are in their research.”  

Upon completion of the GTS Program doctoral students will have earned the future professoriate certificate in addition to the CALS program. These students will have an advantage over their peers, with clear evidence of teaching capabilities and experience at the university level.

Over the course of three years we provide a variety of activities and experiences to help you reach your goals.

• One-on-one mentoring
• Participate in the CIDER Conference
• Conduct class observations to learn teaching practices
• Team teaching experience
• Develop strategies to improve teaching
• Read and discuss current scholarship in teaching and learning