Endorsement in Driver Education - Fort Hays State University (FHSU)

Endorsement

Endorsement in Driver Education (Graduate Non-Degree)

Hours: 9 Online

About

The non-degree Endorsement in Driver Education (Graduate Non-Degree) program at Fort Hays State University aims to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of driver education in Kansas. The program comprises three 3-credit-hour courses that will equip individuals with the knowledge and skills required to teach driver education in the state. Current educators who teach in a public school can apply to the Kansas Department of Education to add the Endorsement in Driver Education (Graduate Non-Degree) to their valid Kansas teaching license.

Why pursue an Endorsement in Driver Education at Fort Hays State University?

FHSU is the only institution in Kansas that offers this specialized program, allowing you to earn the credentials necessary to provide courses. We provide you with the knowledge and skills required to instruct young drivers effectively about the rules of the road, responsible driving practices, and the importance of road safety.

Who is this program for?

The program is tailored for various groups, each benefiting uniquely from the comprehensive understanding of driver education it offers. It is specifically created for the following individuals:

Educators seeking professional growth
Aspiring driver education instructors who seek employment in a K-12 public, accredited school
Driver education instructors seeking employment in a commercial driving school
School administrators promoting traffic safety

Learning Outcomes

Upon completing the Endorsement in Driver Education (Graduate Non-Degree) program, graduates will be ready to instill the essential skills and knowledge required for safe and responsible driving among their students. The program's learning outcomes are:

Content Knowledge

Aspiring driver education teachers acquire in-depth knowledge and apply essential concepts from the curriculum. It consists of a comprehensive understanding of the safe operation of a motor vehicle, mastery of state-specific traffic laws, and a solid grasp of the general rules of the road. Graduates emerge with a wealth of knowledge to effectively guide their future students through the nuances of safe driving skills.

Safety

We understand that driving is a complex task. Therefore, we focus on helping individuals improve their decision-making abilities regarding safe driving techniques and traffic safety. The program comprises coursework, teaching experiences, and practical applications, enabling individuals to develop skills to prevent and manage risks, significantly reducing injuries and promoting responsible driving behavior.

Instructional Practice

Fort Hays State University emphasizes the pedagogical aspects of teaching driver education with this outcome. Participants learn to plan, implement, maintain, and assess both classroom and laboratory phases of a driver and traffic safety education program. The program's approach includes incorporating current in-vehicle technologies and establishing partnerships with parents, mentors, guardians, local community partners, and state officials to meet the diverse learning needs of all students.

Administration and Materials

Addressing the administrative and material aspects of teaching driver education, we provide participants with the skills to effectively manage a driver and traffic safety education program. It includes utilizing appropriate materials, resources, and methods to create an enriching learning environment accommodating students of varying abilities and backgrounds.

Real-World Applications

We always make sure our students have a thorough understanding of laws, statutes, and regulations related to driver licensing and the rules of the road. Apart from this, it's also essential that participants adapt their teaching curriculum to meet the individual needs of each student, both in the classroom and behind the wheel.

Ultimately, the participants should be well-versed in all state licensing requirements and regulations and be able to comply with them fully. It includes maintaining accurate records, completing necessary paperwork, and adhering to all other legal requirements related to driving instruction.

Stay Ahead of the Curve

The program's course content is constantly updated to stay relevant and current with the latest law, statute, and regulation changes. Each semester, the curriculum is reviewed and revised to incorporate current statistics and resources, making sure that you receive the most recent and accurate information. Additionally, you are encouraged to attend regional meetings and training to stay informed about any changes occurring in the field.

To address any further changes in the program, field, or curriculum, participants also attend one online meeting with faculty from FHSU. During this meeting, the faculty members discuss and elaborate on the most recent and significant changes, allowing them to ask questions and clarify any issues.

Practical Activities

As part of the program, every group of students must complete the Driver Education Program Practicum course, which occurs during the summer term. During the practicum, each student is assigned a mentor in a public driver education program, where they must complete two experiences.

The classroom experience includes observing and assisting the mentor teacher in preparing lesson plans, conducting classes, and grading assignments. The behind-the-wheel experience involves observing and assisting the mentor teacher in conducting driving lessons, supervising students, and ensuring safety on the road.

In addition, students are also required to complete the Kansas Department of Revenue computer-based training. The computer-based training has valuable information on the use of the Driver Education Portal and Lawful Presence information for drivers. Students can also attend Kansas Department of Education Driver Education Regional meetings, where they can network with other educators and learn about the latest developments in driver education.

What You’ll Learn:

Comprehensive knowledge of driver education laws, statutes, and regulations
Develop effective teaching strategies to adapt to individual student needs
Master state licensing requirements and adhere to legal obligations
Importance of road safety and responsible driving practices
Maintain accurate records and complete necessary paperwork

How You’ll Learn:

Effective teaching strategies for in-class and behind-the-wheel instruction
Online courses and meetings with faculty
Compliance with state licensing regulations and legal requirements
Latest updates on driver education
Hands-on experience in the classroom and behind-the-wheel teaching environments

Courses

The program spans three courses, each lasting eight weeks, covering key topics crucial for effective teaching. To finish the Endorsement in Driver Education (Graduate Non-Degree) program, students must complete all three courses and achieve a satisfactory grade in each class. Then, if you are teaching in a public school, you will be eligible to apply to the Kansas State Department of Education to add the Endorsement in Driver Education to your valid Kansas teaching license

AEP 805: Driver Education – Driving Safety

This foundation course introduces participants to key driving safety components, focusing on driving techniques, traffic laws, risk prevention, and management practices in driver education.

AEP 806: Driver Education – Instructional Methods

This methodology course teaches how to develop and implement effective driver education, focusing on curriculum design and evidence-based practices for both classroom and behind-the-wheel instruction.

AEP 807: Driver Education – Program Practicum

In this course, participants apply their skills with a licensed supervisor and faculty to implement the curriculum with case-study students. They will be ready to plan, implement, and assess their driver education programs upon completion.

Career Prospects

Upon program completion, graduates become qualified to teach driver education and are supplied with the necessary skills to pursue careers in various related fields. They have access to an extensive array of professional opportunities.

Driver Education Teacher

As a driver education teacher in a public education setting, professionals guide students through the intricacies of safe driving practices. They cover injury prevention, safe driving practices, and compliance with state regulations, fostering a culture of responsible driving among young learners.

Commercial Driving School Instructor

Individuals can still teach new drivers in a commercial school without a current Kansas teaching license. In this role, instructors are crucial in imparting essential driving skills to a diverse audience, contributing to developing responsible and safe drivers outside the traditional educational framework.

Special Education Driver Education Teacher

Individuals passionate about inclusivity can specialize in teaching driver education to students with disabilities. This position involves adapting teaching methods to cater to diverse learning needs, contributing to developing an inclusive educational environment for all students.

Curriculum Development Specialist

For those interested in shaping the future of driver education, becoming a curriculum development specialist is a viable option. The profession allows individuals to contribute to the refinement of driver education curricula actively, staying abreast of educational advancements and ensuring that programs remain relevant and practical for years.

Admission Requirements

The application process involves a comprehensive review by the Advanced Education Programs Department for approval or denial. To successfully register in this 9-hour, non-degree graduate program, you must adhere to specific admission requirements:

Bachelor's Degree with a Minimum 3.00 GPA

To be eligible for the Endorsement in Driver Education (Graduate Non-Degree) program, applicants must have a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution, with a minimum GPA of 3.00 on a 4.00 scale in the last 60 hours of college coursework. This emphasis on academic achievement ensures that applicants bring a solid educational foundation to the program.

Submit Transcripts and Degree Indication

Prospective students must submit their official or unofficial transcripts detailing all completed college coursework and evidence of degree conferral. This submission helps the admissions committee assess academic preparedness and verifies successful completion of prior educational requirements.

Copy of a Valid Teaching License (for Kansas licensed public educators only)

An integral part of the application process is submitting a copy of a valid teaching license. Applicants must currently hold a teaching license to be considered for the program, emphasizing the program's focus on leveraging existing teaching experience.

The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere

Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $3,047.58* (online) per semester.

*Estimated cost based on 9 credit hours at the FHSU Online Graduate tuition rate ($338.62/credit hour) for online courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.

Ready for the next step?

Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.

Apply

FAQ

How long does completing the online Endorsement in Driver Education (Graduate Non-Degree) program typically take?

The program usually takes six months to complete. This is because the driver's education consists of three 3-credit-hour courses, eight weeks each.

What's the average driver instructor's salary?

The average salary for a driver instructor varies by district or driving school location.

Is the schedule flexible for online classes?

Yes, the coursework is flexible and accommodates the busy schedules of working professionals. All classes are available online, and students can access course materials and complete assignments independently. In addition to the online practicum coursework, participants are required to complete a face-to-face practicum experience with a mentor either in their home district or the nearest surrounding district.

What are the job placement rates for graduates aiming to teach driver education?

The job placement rate for graduates is very high. Over 90% of graduates have found employment within six months of graduation.

Is it challenging to complete the classes?

The program is manageable but requires a commitment to studying and finishing assignments on time. Students who are passionate about teaching young drivers and have a strong work ethic should be prepared to succeed.

Information about the Department of Advanced Education Programs

FHSU’s Department of Advanced Education Programs (AEP) is one of the most diverse and comprehensive departments, offering a wide range of programs designed to fit the unique needs of educators at every stage of their careers. Whether you aim to enhance your teaching skills, pursue a role as a building principal or community counselor, add an endorsement, or renew your license, our department is dedicated to helping you succeed in your aspirations.

AEP aims to be the leader in preparing inclusive educational and community professionals to unlock innovative potential in a rapidly advancing world, by preparing global leaders who serve in these settings. Our programs focus on the interaction among innovative technologies, relevant content, diversity, and best practices.

Accreditations

Driver Education

Endorsement

Online

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