Semilla Teacher Fellowship
Experience the Santa Clara Difference
Our vision imagines a region and world in which everyone has access to an inspiring education and the psychological tools and support to propel them toward flourishing lives of meaning, purpose and connection. Our education is characterized by strong values, social justice, transformative education and a diverse community.
Program Overview
As an expression of our commitment to preparing teachers committed to serving students and families in the Latiné/x and other traditionally under-served communities, and to support the development of a teaching force of and for such communities, the School of Education & Counseling Psychology launched the SEMILLA Teacher fellowship in 2015. The Fellowship provides a 50% tuition scholarship along with professional support to students pursuing the Master of Arts in Teaching with a Teaching Credential (MATTC) who are committed to serving as educators in high-need communities. Our students embody the Santa Clara University and Jesuit ideals of competence, conscience and compassion with their commitment to serving and transforming their communities.
Beyond the significant financial assistance the selected Fellows receive, the SEMILLA Fellowship program creates a unique experience for our MATTC candidates. The academic rigor in the classroom is balanced with community building and quarterly meetings in which they gather and learn from SEMILLA Alumni as well as education and community leaders.
Placement Experience
Clinical practicum is a critical component of our MATTC teacher program. SEMILLA Fellows complete their practicums at a high-need school that is predominantly comprised of a traditionally under-served student population.
Scholarship
A SEMILLA Fellow receives a 50% tuition scholarship while enrolled in the MATTC program. Award amounts are automatically disbursed in the student account.
Service
Upon graduation and receipt of their teaching credential, SEMILLA Fellows commit to working for at least two years in a high-need school within four years of completing the MATTC program.
Admission Requirements
- Bachelor’s Degree
- Online application
- Resume or CV
- Personal statement
- Two letters of recommendation (one or more from an individual that has observed you working with children and one that can speak to your academic abilities)
- One official copy of undergraduate transcripts
Eligible Programs
- Master of Arts in Teaching with a Teaching Credential (MATTC)- Multiple Subject (59 units)*
- Master of Arts in Teaching with a Teaching Credential (MATTC)- Single Subject (53 units)*
- Online Master of Arts in Teaching with a Teaching Credential (OMATTC)- Multiple Subject (59 units)*
- Online Master of Arts in Teaching with a Teaching Credential (OMATTC)- Single Subject (53 units)*
- *Program also offers optional Bilingual Authorization (BMATTC), adding 9 units
"Teaching on the East Side campus is a privilege and complete delight. For me personally, it is an opportunity to give back to the community that raised me. Partnering with East Side schools allows us all to gain a more profound understanding as to the critical needs in the classrooms of historically marginalized communities. Such understanding, if pursued with hearty con cariño (deep care) has the potential to ignite in future teachers an understanding and urgent need for transformative pedagogies that are culturally responsive and relevant"
Affording SCU
Beyond the Semilla Fellowship, students may qualify for other scholarships and financial aid opportunities at Santa Clara University. See Financial Aid page to learn more.