Turn Your FIRST Educational Resources Learning Into Graduate Credit
If you attended a FIRST Educational Resources event, you may be able to turn that professional learning into graduate credit through Midwest Teachers Institute.
We know teachers are always looking for practical ways to make the most of the time they invest in professional development. That is why we offer a simple path to earn graduate credit for select FIRST Educational Resources events through corresponding MTI courses. The paired courses are designed for licensed educators, are worth 3 graduate semester hours each, and can be completed through a flexible distance format at your own pace.
How it Works
If you participated in an eligible FIRST Educational Resources event, you can register for the matching MTI course and complete the required follow-up coursework to earn graduate credit. Each course includes structured reflection, application of what you learned, and a final evaluation assignment. The courses are built specifically around the learning from the related FIRST event and are intended to help you bring those ideas directly into your classroom, school, or leadership role.
Cost and Credit
Each course is $395 and awards 3 graduate credits. Your graduate credit will be issued through Dominican University, Chicago, Illinois. The courses are designed for educators who hold at least a bachelor’s degree and a professional educator license, and we always recommend checking with your district in advance to confirm credit acceptance for salary advancement or professional development.
Eligible FIRST Events and Corresponding Courses
MTI 690: Culturize Your Classroom: Leadership, Culture, and Student Impact
This course is paired with the Culturize Institute and focuses on positive school culture, educator mindset, student relationships, and practical strategies that strengthen classroom and school environments.
MTI 691: Instructional Coaching Toolkit
This course is paired with the Instructional Coaching Toolkit Series and is ideal for educators interested in coaching, teacher support, feedback, collaboration, and instructional improvement.
MTI 692: Standards Based Learning and Grading
This course is paired with the SBG Conference and helps educators deepen their understanding of standards-based grading, assessment practices, equity, and clearer communication of student learning.
MTI 693: Instructional Coaching for Impact and Engagement
This course is paired with the Instructional Coaching Summit and focuses on teacher engagement, coaching implementation, buy-in, and real-world strategies for meaningful professional growth.
Why Teachers Love This Option
This pathway gives you a practical way to extend the value of professional learning you have already completed. Instead of letting a great conference or workshop end when the event is over, you can use that experience to earn graduate credit, reflect more deeply, and apply what you learned in a way that benefits your students and your career.
Because the courses are offered in a distance format, you can begin working once registered, complete the coursework on your own schedule, and finish within one year of registration.
Ready to Get Started?
If you attended a qualifying FIRST Educational Resources event and want to earn graduate credit, Midwest Teachers Institute makes the process simple, affordable, and teacher-friendly.