Step 1: Apply to Bemidji State University

Step 2: Submit Your Essay

  • Submit a 500 word essay titled “Why Teach?” in APA format with the proper citation of at least one source.
    • Attach your essay as a separate file and send directly to: fastrack@bemidjistate.edu *Be sure your BSU Tech ID or StarID is included on all attachments.

Step 3: Register for ED 5000 Introduction to FasTrack (1 cr)

  • All students must complete this prerequisite course before enrolling in other FasTrack courses. The course is offered fall, spring and summer and takes about 30 days to complete. Students may register for the course throughout the year, up until about a month before the end of the semester.
  • ED 5000 is a 1-credit graduate-level course. During this course, students will work with an advisor to review their previous transcripts to determine which content courses in their desired license area are eligible to transfer and create an academic plan.
  • Learn how to register for ED 5000 here.

Note: If you have any issues with GPA, immunizations, financial aid or outstanding debt to any MN State institution, you will need to resolve that before you register for ED 5000.

Step 4: Provide evidence of student liability insurance

  • All current FasTrack students must purchase student liability insurance. Even if you are employed with a school district, you must have “student” insurance. Students must obtain student liability insurance for each academic year that they are active in the program.
  • Students may purchase student liability insurance from Education Minnesota. As a requirement to begin FasTrack, you need to purchase student liability insurance before stepping into the classroom for your classroom experience. It is your responsibility to renew your student insurance each academic year.
  • Purchase liability insurance from Education Minnesota
  • BEFORE ATTENDING your first face-to-face session: Please send verification that you purchased Student Liability Insurance to our program manager at fastrack@bemidjistate.edu prior to attending the first Face2Face start-up/orientation. If you do not purchase and retain Student Liability Insurance from Education Minnesota you will not be able to participate and continue in FasTrack courses and activities.

Step 5: Secure a practicing teacher mentor

Step 6: After completing ED 5000

  • Submit any remaining application materials listed above.
  • Register in the upcoming fall or spring semester for your first semester coursework: ED 5100 and ED 6107.

Start Teaching

Students may apply for teaching jobs when enrolled in FasTrack. Any school that hires you is responsible for applying for the teacher candidate’s Tier 1 or Tier 2 license.

If hired, your appointment can serve as your student teaching experience if your desired license area aligns with the subjects and grade levels being taught in the classroom setting. You will still need a university supervisor and a cooperating teacher, and you will need to complete all student teaching competencies as required by the MN Board of Teaching.