ACSI Credentialing
Credentialing Educators in Christian Schools
ACSI Credentialing enhances Christian schools by offering certification and ongoing education that uphold both high professional and biblical standards. Our certification program provides a structured framework for continuous professional development, seamlessly integrating with efforts to improve school performance. Through our program, which includes continuing education units, educators and administrators are supported in their pursuit of growth and credibility. By exemplifying a commitment to lifelong learning, we inspire educators and leaders to model this same dedication for their students.
FOR TEACHERS & ADMINISTRATORS | EIGHT CERTIFICATIONS AVAILABLE
ACSI Certification Video (Shorter Version) from ACSI on Vimeo.
K–12
If God is calling you to mold and influence the next generation for Jesus Christ, ACSI supports your goal of meeting professional and biblical standards to teach in K–12 Christian Education through three areas:
- Bible Knowledge
- Educational Studies
- Christian Philosophy of Education
Early Education (Birth – Pre-K)
ACSI offers certification for Early Education Teachers (Pre-Kindergarten) to enhance their professional development and ensure high standards in early childhood education. This certification program is designed to support educators in building a strong foundation in teaching young children, incorporating best practices and innovative strategies tailored to pre-kindergarten environments. Through this certification, teachers will gain valuable skills and knowledge to create engaging and effective learning experiences, thereby promoting the growth and development of their students. This program underscores ACSI's commitment to excellence in early education, helping educators achieve their professional goals and provide the best possible start for young learners.
Coming Fall 2026
In Partnership with Cedarville University
ACSI has partnered with Cedarville University to launch an Alternative Certification Pathway for educators seeking ACSI certification. Designed for those with a bachelor’s degree in any field, including individuals transitioning from other careers, this new pathway provides biblically integrated, practical training resulting in a Standard Level ACSI Teacher Certificate.
The program will be delivered through ACSI’s digital learning platform beginning Fall 2026.
Eligibility
Applicants must:
- Be employed in an ACSI member school
- Hold a bachelor’s degree in any field from an accredited institution
- Currently hold an ACSI Temporary Certificate
- Secondary/Specialist applicants must have 20 credit hours in a specific teaching field
Program Overview
Participants complete:
- Biblical Foundations
- Christian Philosophy of Education
- Six Educational Studies modules of their choice (selected with a school administrator)
Educational Studies topics include classroom management, instructional strategies, planning, assessment, diversity and learner differences, professionalism, literacy and numeracy development, and technology integration.
All assignments are practical and based on real classroom experience.
Time Commitment
- Approximately 4–5 hours per month
- Designed to be completed in 36 months (3 years)
- Fully self-paced — may be completed sooner
The manageable monthly workload makes this pathway both achievable and sustainable for full-time educators.
Result
Upon completion of program requirements, the applicant will receive a Standard level ACSI Certificate as either an Elementary, Secondary, or Specialist Teacher.
Learn More about Cedarville University
Continuing Education Units (CEUs)
ACSI certification requirements for continuing education units can be fulfilled through various avenues, including professional development opportunities offered by ACSI. These options are designed to help educators meet their certification needs while staying updated with the latest advancements and best practices in the field.
ACSI Micro-credentials
What Is A Micro-credential?
An ACSI micro-credential is a professional credential, with a narrow focus, based on a set course of study and a specific body of work demonstrating competency. Although a micro-credential is a standalone
credential, current ACSI Certificate holders can have completion of a micro-credential noted as an endorsement on their ACSI Certificate.
ACSI micro-credentials may be provided through ACSI events or departments or provided through
completion of specific training from a third-party provider.
The ACSI Micro-credential Framework
Each ACSI micro-credential will have the following:
- A specific purpose, with a narrow focus, and intended audience
- 3–5 measurable objectives for those who complete the micro-credential process, progressing in a logical sequence and culminating in the desired competency
- At least 18 clock hours of instruction or learning activities, which may consist of any combination of direct instruction, guided collaboration, documented reading, or engagement activities (reading, assignments, etc.)
- Practical application of the objectives to allow the participant to demonstrate the desired competency
Upon completion of an approved training and application process, the participant will be able to submit verification through the ACSI micro-credential application process in order for ACSI to issue the micro-credential.
Alignment to Flourishing School Culture Model
Each ACSI micro-credential will be aligned with at least one construct from the Flourishing School Culture Model or the Flourishing Faith Index and targeted for a relevant position within the Christian school.
If you would like information on becoming an ACSI micro-credential provider, please email certification@acsi.org.
- Coming Soon
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