Announcements
Mar 13, 2026
Wiley University is proud to announce the launch of the LEAP Program — Leading Educators through Accelerated Pathways — an innovative new initiative designed to prepare the next generation of highly qualified teachers through a flexible, accelerated pathway to certification.
Developed to respond to the growing teacher shortage in Texas and across the nation, the LEAP Program provides a streamlined and supportive route for individuals seeking to enter the education profession. The program is especially designed for working adults, career changers, paraprofessionals, military veterans, transfer students, associate degree holders, and adults with some college credit but no degree.
Offered in a hybrid format, the LEAP Program combines virtual synchronous and asynchronous learning with in-person residency and clinical experiences, allowing students to balance their academic goals with personal and professional responsibilities. Students may pursue certification in EC–6 Elementary Education, Health EC–12, 4–8 Social Studies, and 4–8 Science through two flexible pathways: an Accelerated Track and a Hyper-Accelerated Track, depending on prior college credits and academic preparation.
“The LEAP Program is a transformative ‘leap’ forward for education in Texas, and beyond,” said Professor Marsanell D. Butler, M.Ed., Director of Education Preparation. “We are opening doors for passionate, driven individuals to become the highly qualified teachers our students deserve, faster than ever before. This is not just a program; it is our commitment to the future of education.”
The LEAP Program features five-week accelerated terms in Wiley University’s adult degree-completion format and includes required field-based and clinical experiences at Texas Education Agency-approved K–12 campuses. With a strong emphasis on strategic advising, licensure tracking, and compliance, the program is built to guide candidates from entry through certification readiness with intentional support at every stage.
Students who begin the program but choose not to continue on the certification path will also benefit from built-in off-ramp pathways, including completion of an Interdisciplinary Studies B.A. or B.S., a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential, or a Fitness Trainer Certification, ensuring that participants still leave with meaningful, career-relevant credentials.
“At Wiley University, we recognize that the teacher shortage is not just a workforce challenge — it is a justice issue,” said Dr. Morris Thomas, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at Wiley University. “Black educators and educators from other historically underrepresented communities are essential to ensuring that every student in America sees themselves reflected in the front of the classroom. The LEAP program is our response: a flexible, accelerated pathway to educator certification designed for working adults, career changers, and degree completers who are ready to answer the call.”
By creating accessible and responsive educator preparation pathways, Wiley University continues its legacy of advancing opportunity, equity, and excellence in higher education. The LEAP Program reflects the institution’s commitment to preparing educators who are not only qualified, but called to make a lasting difference in classrooms and communities.
For more information about Wiley University or the Wiley University LEAP Program, please contact Catherine G. Sellers, Executive Director of Marketing, Communications, and Brand Management, at communications@wileyc.edu.
___________________
About Wiley University:
Wiley University, formerly known as Wiley College, is a premier liberal arts institution affiliated with the United Methodist Church. The university is dedicated to fostering social good and developing leaders who make a meaningful impact in their communities and beyond.
About Wiley University LEAP Program:
The Wiley University LEAP Program, Leading Educators through Accelerated Pathways, is a flexible, accelerated educator preparation program created to meet the growing need for highly qualified teachers in Texas and beyond. Designed for working adults, career changers, transfer students, and other nontraditional learners, the program offers hybrid instruction, clinical preparation, and strategic advising that support candidates on the path to certification. Rooted in Wiley University’s historic mission of access, equity, and excellence, the LEAP Program is preparing the next generation of educators to make a meaningful impact in schools, communities, and the future of education.
