Teaching Assistant Development Program

Supporting Graduate Students' Academic and Professional Success

University Teaching Certificate

The University of California, Riverside’s Graduate Division created the University Teaching Certificate (UTC) Program as a two-quarter instructional training and certification program for graduate students. This highly competitive program is designed to assist graduate students interested in careers as university-level instructors to develop teaching and lecturing strategies, design a teaching philosophy, and become members of the professional teaching community. The goal of the UTC program is to equip graduate students with the necessary skills so that they can be regarded as both outstanding scholars and teachers in their continued work in academia. Ph.D. students and Master’s students are welcome to apply. Postdocs may also apply, but will not receive the four units of UCR credit if they are accepted (see FAQ).

To be considered for the UTC Program you must submit:

  • An application form (including statement of interest)
  • A letter of reference
  • Three quarters of teaching evaluations (alternatively, you may attend the Teaching Development Track of the Teaching Careers Week event held in Spring quarter)

Students are required to attend in-person twice-weekly classes during their first quarter in the program (Tuesday/Thursday 11-11:50am), as well as three seminars during the second quarter. 

The application for Winter 2025 - Spring 2025 cohort is now open. Please reach out to the current UTC coordinator, J Selke, at utc@ucr.edu with any questions about the program. The application will close on Thursday, November 21 at 9am. The application and letter of recommendation must be submitted prior to this deadline. Incomplete applications will not be accepted. Find the application here: https://form.jotform.com/231006786367056. 

Testimonials

Seminar class meeting
“The UTC program should be required for all future professors. I enjoyed learning from my peers during the class discussions, and I appreciated the perspectives from graduate students outside of my college as well. The portfolio I generated will be incredibly helpful as I apply for teaching positions.”
Lecturing to a Class
“The program helped me identify my current teaching strengths, and clarified ways in which I can grow as an instructor. It touches on all aspects of good teaching, and is an excellent opportunity for professional development.”
UTC Testimonial
“The program helped me critically evaluate my teaching methods. My future students will benefit from me participating in the program as will I during the job application process.”
UTC Testimonial
“The UTC program prompted the consideration of methods and scenarios that would not have occurred to me until they actually happened in the classroom. I feel that I am now more understanding of the diverse educational backgrounds and struggles my students may have.”

Questions? Consult our FAQ or email our UTC Coordinator at utc@ucr.edu.