Instructional Assistant

Program Description

The Instructional Assistant associate of applied science degree prepares qualified individuals to work directly with students under the supervision of a licensed teacher. Students develop the skills to assist children with math, science, reading and writing assignments, as well as handle classroom management, clerical and other tasks related to instruction. This program meets Title I requirements.

Duties may also include monitoring student activities, assisting with reading, correcting papers, tutoring, one-on-one activities and small group facilitation. In addition, instructional assistants work on classroom displays, assist children with computers and media, and supervise various classroom and other school events. Instructional Assistants may be hired to provide instructional services to students from pre-kindergarten through high school; however, the focus of this program is on preparing graduates to work primarily in elementary and middle schools.

This program fulfills the requirements of the No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB Act) for paraprofessionals.

Statewide Salary Range for Recent Graduates

$17,159 $35,000

Approximate Costs

• $122.20 per credit (resident)
• $183.30 per credit (out-of-state resident)
• *Online students are not charged out-of-state fees.

Program Outcomes

• Support all learning based on knowledge of subject matter.
• Identify developmentally appropriate child/adolescent physical, social/emotional, intellectual, and language characteristics and their developmental and environmental impact on learning.
• Adapt instruction to meet the diverse needs of all learners.
• Utilize a variety of instructional strategies, media and technology to foster the development of critical thinking and problem solving.
• Demonstrate effective written and verbal communication in working collaboratively within the school setting and interactions with students and families.
• Assist in planning and implementing instructional strategies that reflect the learning cycle.
• Utilize informal assessment strategies to collect data for the support of student learning.
• Incorporate the reflective process to promote student learning and professional growth.
• Provide for the health and safety needs of students.
• Use proactive classroom management techniques to promote a positive class climate, intrinsic motivation, and optimal learning.
• Assume professional responsibility for ethical, moral, and legal policies and procedures.

Career Opportunities

• Teacher Assistants
• Instructional Assistants
• Paraprofessionals
• Specialized Aides in Reading, Computers or Special Education

Entrance Scores

Admission Process

• Submit the college admission application.   
• Submit the $30 one-time fee.   
• Submit high school and other official college transcripts.   
• Take the college assessment test (ACCUPLACER, ACT or other). The ACCUPLACER assessment can be taken at MPTC.   
• Meet with Admissions to discuss order of courses and prerequisites (required for this program).   
• Health Requirements need to be met and a Criminal Background Check is required.   
• Check with Admissions if any additional steps are required.   

Please visit the Admissions page for general information.