Teachers who have completed their initial certification often wonder what the next step looks like. The journey does not end with a convocation ceremony; instead, it opens a pathway to deeper expertise, broader teaching assignments, and leadership roles. At the University of Windsor, continuing teacher education is designed specifically for Ontario‑certified educators who want to stay current, expand their qualifications, and monitor their career growth in a competitive landscape.
Why Continuing Teacher Education Matters for Educators
The Ontario College of Teachers requires members to engage in ongoing professional learning to maintain good standing. Continuing teacher education satisfies this requirement while offering tangible benefits that go beyond compliance. By pursuing additional qualifications (AQs), teachers can:
- Gain eligibility to teach new divisions or subject areas, such as senior visual arts or technological studies.
- Develop specialized knowledge that aligns with emerging curriculum trends, for example, green industries or digital literacy.
- Position themselves for administrative roles through principal qualification programs (PQP).
- Increase earning potential and improve job security in a market that values continual skill development.
These outcomes are not theoretical; they translate directly into classroom impact and career advancement.
Program Highlights at the University of Windsor
The Faculty of Education at the University of Windsor offers a robust catalogue of continuing teacher education options. All courses are fully accredited and recognized by the Ontario College of Teachers, ensuring that the credentials you earn are portable across the province.
Additional Qualification (AQ) Courses
AQs allow teachers to add teaching divisions or subject‑specific expertise to their existing certification. Popular AQ streams include:
- Senior Visual Arts – prepares educators to teach grades 9‑12 visual arts curricula.
- Technological Studies – covers areas such as manufacturing technology, green industries, and technological design.
- Special Education – equips teachers to support diverse learners with individualized education plans.
- French as a Second Language – expands language teaching capabilities for immersion and core French programs.
Each AQ blends theoretical foundations with practical application, often incorporating hands‑on projects, case studies, and collaborative discussions.
Principal Qualification Program (PQP)
For educators aspiring to school leadership, the PQP provides a comprehensive look at school operations, instructional leadership, and community engagement. The program emphasizes:
- Data‑informed decision making.
- Equity‑focused school improvement planning.
- Effective communication with staff, parents, and community partners.
- Legal and policy frameworks governing Ontario schools.
Participants complete a practicum component that lets them apply concepts in a real‑world school setting, often leading to immediate opportunities for vice‑principal or principal positions.
Technological Education and Specialized ABQs
Recognizing the rapid evolution of STEM fields, the University of Windsor offers additional basic qualifications (ABQ) in emerging areas such as:
- Green Industries – focusing on sustainable practices, renewable energy, and environmental stewardship.
- Technological Design – covering prototyping, CAD, and innovation processes.
- Computer Studies – preparing teachers to deliver coding, robotics, and digital media curricula.
These ABQs are delivered in flexible formats, allowing working teachers to balance coursework with classroom responsibilities.
Real‑World Impact: Alumni Stories
Hearing from educators who have walked the path can illuminate the concrete benefits of continuing teacher education. Three University of Windsor alumni share how specific programs reshaped their professional trajectories.
Elizabeth Dalla Bona – Expanding into Senior Visual Arts
Elizabeth completed her BFA and B.Ed. at Windsor before teaching elementary students in Chicago. Seeking to move into high school visual arts, she enrolled in the Senior Visual Arts AQ. She appreciated that the course used the same learning management system she already knew, which reduced the technology barrier. More importantly, the curriculum required her to create artwork herself, reinforcing the philosophy that teachers should model the processes they ask students to undertake. The AQ not only qualified her to teach up to grade ten but also rekindled her understanding of conceptual frameworks used by senior art students. Today, Elizabeth is actively pursuing a high‑school visual arts position, a goal directly enabled by her continuing education.
Oliver Swainson – Building Tech‑Savvy Classrooms
Oliver graduated with a B.Ed. in Technological Education and began full‑time work as a manufacturing technology teacher. Recognizing the introduction of a new grade‑nine technology survey course, he pursued additional ABQs in green industries and technological design, later earning an honours specialist qualification. The remote, asynchronous format allowed him to fit study sessions around grading and lesson planning. Oliver notes that the varied course lengths—six‑week intensives and twelve‑week deep dives—gave him control over his pacing. The alumni discount further reduced the financial barrier. As a result, Oliver now feels prepared to teach the broader survey course and has increased his eligibility for departmental leadership roles.
Jillian Authier – Moving into School Leadership
Jillian’s journey began with a concurrent education/history degree, followed by a B.Ed. and a Master’s in Education. While working as an ESL instructional coach, she enrolled in the Principal Qualification Program. The in‑person format fostered genuine connections with peers and instructors, creating a support network that persists today. Guest speakers from local school boards and community organizations provided real‑world context for the theories discussed in class. Jillian credits the PQP with giving her a systemic view of school operations and the confidence to pursue a vice‑principal role, which she secured shortly after completing the program.
Flexible Learning Options for Busy Teachers
Understanding that educators juggle demanding schedules, the University of Windsor has built flexibility into its continuing teacher education offerings.
Online, Asynchronous, and In‑Person Formats
Students can choose from:
- Fully online asynchronous courses – ideal for those who need to study at any time of day.
- Hybrid models – blending occasional face‑to‑face sessions with online modules.
- Traditional in‑person classes – offered on campus for learners who value direct interaction.
All formats maintain the same academic rigor and accreditation standards.
Alumni Discounts and Funding Opportunities
Windsor alumni receive a tuition discount on AQ and ABQ courses, making continuing education more accessible. Additionally, many school boards offer professional development subsidies or tuition reimbursement plans. Prospective students are encouraged to check with their employer’s human resources department and the Faculty of Education’s financial aid office for current opportunities.
How to Get Started: Registration and Next Steps
Taking the first step toward continuing teacher education is straightforward. The University of Windsor keeps registration open for most sessions well in advance of the start date.
Key Dates and Application Process
For the upcoming spring and summer 2026 term, the registration deadline is April 8, 2026. The application process involves:
- Visiting the Faculty of Education’s continuing education page.
- Selecting the desired course or program.
- Completing the online application form.
- Submitting proof of Ontario teacher certification and any required prerequisites.
- Paying the tuition fee (alumni discount applied automatically if eligible).
Applicants receive a confirmation email with details on accessing the learning platform, course materials, and instructor contact information.
Tips for Choosing the Right Course
With many options available, consider the following when selecting a continuing education opportunity:
- Career goals – identify whether you aim to change teaching divisions, deepen subject expertise, or move into administration.
- Schedule compatibility – match course format and length to your personal and professional commitments.
- Prerequisites – ensure you meet any required prior qualifications or experience.
- Support services – look for programs that offer academic advising, technical help, and networking opportunities.
Speaking with an admissions advisor can help clarify which pathway aligns best with your aspirations.
Take the Next Step in Your Teaching Career
Continuing teacher education at the University of Windsor is more than a requirement fulfillment; it is a strategic investment in your professional future. By expanding your qualifications, you open doors to new classroom assignments, leadership positions, and personal growth. The programs are designed with the working educator in mind, offering flexible delivery, recognized credentials, and a supportive learning community.
If you are ready to monitor your career growth and explore the possibilities that additional qualifications can bring, now is the time to act.
