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FAQs

Educator Preparation Institute

Who qualifies for the EPI Program?
Coursework builds on the subject area knowledge of your baccalaureate degree with pedagogical content and teaching methodology
What is the cost?
EPI tuition is $58.78 per credit hour for a total tuition cost of $1,234.38. Courses in distance learning lab format will carry an additional lab fee of $30.
When do the classes begin?
Classes will begin each semester if there is sufficient enrollment. Students can complete the program in two semesters if they register for all courses in sequence. If a course is missed, students may take the course the next semester it is offered.
How long is the program?
The EPI program consists of 7 classes which range from 30-45 hours each and 2 field experience (practicum) classes of 15 hours each, for a total of 21 credits. The program may be completed in two semesters.
What is a field experience class?
The two field experience classes provide practice in classroom teaching. Students spend a total of thirty hours teaching on-site at a school. The field experience meets the "student teaching requirement" for certification.
What are the requirements for the EPI Certificate of Program Completion?
Students who successfully complete the EPI coursework and who successfully complete the Florida Teacher Certification Exams (FTCE) in Professional Education, General Knowledge and Subject Area will receive an EPI Certificate of Completion, along with an official EPI transcript.
Will I be a Certified Teacher when I receive the EPI program certificate?
Teacher Certification is determined by the Florida Department of Education (FLDOE). Successful completion of the EPI Program, which includes all student teaching obligations, as well as attainment of passing scores on the General Knowledge, Subject Area and Professional Education Tests, is a major step toward certification. However, you will also need to:
- complete the level two background screening; and
- submit the FLDOE professional teaching certificate application package.
Do I need to contact the Department of Teacher Certification before enrolling?
Students must have a statement of eligibility through the FLDOE Bureau of Teacher Certification as part of the EPI admission process. You have until the end of your first semester of EPI enrollment to obtain the statement or provide evidence you have applied for such. In any case, you must have the statement of eligibility before you will be awarded the EPI Certificate of Completion. Information is available at http://www.fldoe.org/edcert.
If I already have some college credit education courses will they count toward the EPI requirements?
Possibly, but the course content must be compared to the EPI course content to ensure you can demonstrate to the FLDOE that you have completed all the required teacher education skills. See the EPI Coordinator to discuss transcript evaluation.
When will EPI classes be held?
Student preferences will help set the class schedule. EPI classes are offered in a blended (part classroom and part distance learning) format.
Do I have to attend full-time?
To finish the program in 5-6 months, you must attend full-time. Students may attend part-time; however, all classes may not be available in all terms.
How do I enroll in OWC's EPI Program?
Admission is an easy process:
1. complete the OWC admissions process (online here or in-person);
2. submit a completed EPI Supplemental Application/Information form, including official transcripts verifying your bachelor's degree; and 3) contact the EPI Coordinator to plan your program.

For Information and Advisor Appointments:
Program Information: Penny Cox (850) 729-5322
Admissions and Student Services: Janice Buchanan (850) 729-4901