Grow Your Own

Why Grow Your Own at UT Southern?

Choose the Grow Your Own Teacher Internship Program for a unique and impactful pathway to becoming a licensed educator. This program allows you to earn your teaching degree while gaining valuable hands-on experience in local classrooms, working closely with mentor teachers. You’ll benefit from real-world training alongside academic coursework, ensuring you are fully prepared for the classroom. Plus, by partnering with the Tennessee Department of Education and local school districts, you’ll have the opportunity to make an immediate impact in your community, all while earning your teaching license without the financial burden of tuition and textbooks.

What are the Benefits of Grow Your Own?

On-the-job learning with experienced teachers
Free tuition and earn while you learn model—apprentices receive a living wage while working full-time and
pursuing a degree and teaching license
A rigorous program designed to train qualified school personnel to fill the teacher shortage from
the local community, resulting in a faculty that represents the student population they serve
Eligible for the GYO Scholarship after completing 60 or more college credit hours.

Eligibility

Individuals who would like to be considered for the Educator Preparation Program (EPP) should meet the following:

College GPA of 2.75
A minimum of 60 college credit hours
Provide ACT, SAT, or Praxis Core Exam results
Have an Associates Degree or an Associate of Science in Teaching (AST)
Provide a Local Education Agency (LEA) recommendation letter

Student Testimonial:

“The grow your own program was the right choice for me because it provided me with the invaluable experience of earning my teaching degree while simultaneously gaining classroom experience. No other pathway allows you to earn your degree while working full-time in your prospective career.”
~Kayla Williams

How to Apply

Click “Apply Today” on our application website
Select “Application for Admission”
When selecting your intended program of study, choose elementary education
After completing your application, contact Cindy Young so she can finish your enrollment process in Grow Your Own