Active-duty service members, veterans and their spouses now have an expanded opportunity to pursue an Ohio teaching license through Marietta College’s post-baccalaureate Military Bridges to Careers pathway, with tuition fully covered for a limited number of eligible students, thanks to funding from the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce’s EmpowerVetEd grant.
The Bridges to Teaching pathway was created to address critical teacher shortages in Ohio and across the nation, providing military-connected students with a streamlined route to licensure that builds on their existing education. While the pathway has traditionally supported students who already hold a bachelor’s degree and are enrolled in the post-baccalaureate program, the College is exploring opportunities for undergraduates who meet the criteria and intend to pursue a degree that leads to an Ohio teaching license.
“At Marietta College, we recognize the extraordinary leadership, resilience, and commitment that military-connected individuals can bring to a P-12 classroom here in Ohio. This scholarship initiative reflects our deep belief in their potential to become effective educators,” said Tanya Judd, director of Leadership Development and McCoy Professor of Education and Leadership Studies. “By removing financial barriers and offering a flexible, supportive pathway to licensure, we are proud to help veterans, active-duty service members, and their spouses transition into meaningful careers that continue their legacy of service—this time, through education.”
The Bridges to Teaching program is delivered fully online and asynchronously, giving students the flexibility to complete coursework on their own schedules. Students work with faculty mentors to determine the content areas and grade levels for their licensure, including options for grades 6–12 teaching and K–12 Special Education for students with mild to moderate needs. Mentorship helps students navigate coursework, licensure requirements, and career planning, ensuring a personalized and supportive experience. Upon completion, students earn an Ohio teaching license, with credentials transferable to most other states.
Applications are being accepted for upcoming start dates, and tuition funding is limited to the first eligible students admitted under the grant. The program averages 20-30 semester credit hours, or 8-10 courses, depending on the area of licensure and previously completed coursework. Tuition cost is $495 per credit hour.