Prepare for the ETS ParaPro Assessment and launch your career in PK-12 classrooms across Michigan

Paraprofessional Preparation Certificate (15 credits)

Start your journey in education with Davenport University’s Paraprofessional Preparation Certificate program, designed to get you classroom-ready efficiently. This paraprofessional training program prepares you to meet Michigan requirements for Title I schools and provides a pathway to employment without completing a full bachelor’s degree.

With this certificate, you’ll be prepared to take the ETS ParaPro Assessment, which qualifies you for paraprofessional roles in Title I schools. This means you’ll unlock access to rewarding entry-level education careers in PK–12 classrooms across the state.

Become a K-12 classroom support professional in Michigan

Gain the skills and confidence to support educators and make a meaningful impact in diverse PK–12 classrooms throughout Michigan. In Davenport’s Paraprofessional Preparation Certificate program, you’ll benefit from:

  • Hands-on classroom experience: Apply what you learn through fieldwork and service-learning.
  • Flexible learning options: Complete your coursework fully online to fit your schedule.
  • Fast, 15-credit program: Move toward career readiness quickly.
  • Practical preparation: Build skills in child and adolescent development, instructional strategies and classroom management. 

Whether you're exploring education careers as a high school senior or an adult new to college, exploring education careers, this program prepares you to step into an important classroom support role.

Explore courses for Davenport’s Paraprofessional Preparation Certificate

If you’re juggling work, family or other commitments, our online Paraprofessional Certificate program is just for you. You’ll have the flexibility to learn while earning hands-on experience and preparing for the ETS ParaPro Assessment in Michigan. 

You’ll also develop a strong foundation in educational principles, child and adolescent development, instructional strategies and effective classroom management. As a future paraprofessional, you’ll be equipped to support high-quality learning experiences across content areas, including reading, writing and mathematics, while creating positive, developmentally appropriate interactions with students.

Why pursue a Paraprofessional Preparation Certificate at Davenport?

At Davenport, you’ll gain a strong foundation in supporting teachers and students in today’s Michigan classrooms. Our program emphasizes:

  • Child and adolescent development courses to understand how students learn
  • Instructional strategies training to support diverse learning needs
  • Classroom management skills to confidently assist in daily instruction 

Step into a critical teacher assistant role with practical, real-world skills that allow you to make a difference from Day 1. With flexible scheduling, hands-on experience and a fast, 15-credit program, Davenport University makes it easy to start your career in PK–12 education in Michigan.

Experience the Davenport difference:

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Faculty experts in urban education

Learn from Davenport faculty who have 30+ years of collective experience as educators, with expertise in areas like elementary and secondary teaching and educational leadership as well as certification in Online+ learning instruction. 

 

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100% Online+ educational leadership certificate 

Prepare for leadership for educational equity through this 100% Online+ educational leadership certificate, available through our Global Campus.

 

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Award-winning program

Davenport is a Transformational Award Winner as recognized by the American Council on Education.

 

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Mentorship and guidance 

Receive the guidance and mentorship you need to become an in-demand urban educator by being paired with a master teacher within your assigned school in an urban setting. 

 

Get started on your Paraprofessional Preparation Certificate

Explore the admissions requirements and then take the next step toward earning your Michigan paraprofessional certificate at Davenport.

Talk to an admissions advisor

Davenport’s admissions team is here to answer your questions. Please call us at 800.686.1600 or email us at info@davenport.edu.

Apply now for free or request more information

Start on your path to become a paraprofessional or prepare for another rewarding position. Request more information or begin your application now.

About Davenport University 

Davenport Campus

Davenport is a private, not-for-profit university with more than 150 years of experience preparing students for successful careers.

Offering over 100 degree and certificate programs, we align with top employers to design degree programs that help you gain the skills and real-world experience you need to rise above the rest. With small class sizes and campuses across Michigan or online, you’ll earn a quality education on your schedule at Davenport University.

Some programs require a student to complete a portion of their degree plan off-campus. 
View a full list of those programs and courses

Sources:

 Davenport University, 2024/2025 Catalog