ACUE Certificate in Teaching Effectiveness

Are you looking to elevate your teaching practices and make a meaningful impact on student learning? Look no further than ACUE, the provider of evidence-based teaching practices designed to empower faculty and transform classrooms.

2024-25 ACUE cohort group photo Faculty Success and Provost Michael McPherson honored the 2024-25 faculty cohort at the ACUE Pinning Ceremony in May 2025.

What is ACUE?

ACUE logo ACUE's Effective Teaching Framework is a comprehensive, evidence-based, professional development initiative designed to equip faculty members with the essential skills and knowledge to implement effective teaching strategies that promote student success and retention. Developed in collaboration with renowned educators and researchers, ACUE's program is grounded in the latest research on effective teaching and learning strategies.

ACUE differs from the Certificate of Excellence in Teaching Online (CETO) program offered by CLEAR at UNT. CETO is geared towards online teaching and course development, while ACUE targets in-person, more traditional courses and labs. We strongly encourage faculty to complete both programs but advise against enrolling concurrently.

Benefits of the ACUE Teaching Framework

Participants will learn and apply research-backed teaching practices that can significantly improve student engagement, comprehension, and retention.

Faculty members will have the opportunity to grow professionally, staying abreast of the latest in pedagogical innovation and research.

Upon completion, participants receive a Certificate in Effective College Instruction endorsed by the American Council on Education, recognizing their commitment to educational excellence.

Joining the ACUE program provides faculty with the chance to become part of a national network of educators committed to best practices in teaching. This community offers a platform for sharing experiences, strategies, and challenges.

Ultimately, the most significant benefit is the positive impact on our students. By enhancing our teaching practices, we contribute to a more supportive, engaging, and effective learning experience for every student.

What Does the ACUE Program Cover?

Learn how to ensure learner-centered course outcomes, build an inclusive syllabus, and more.

The learning environment you build impacts persistence, learning, and chances for student success. Learn how to lead a productive first day, promote a civil learning environment, motivate your students, and more.

From group learning activities, to planning effective discussions, you'll unlock evidence-based strategies that promote active learning, giving all students the chance to be fully involved in their own education.

Advanced questioning, powerful note-taking skills, and beyond. Learn the strategies that can deepen learning and enhance every teaching moment.

Learn the methods of formative and summative assessment that best promote learning and help you refine your teaching. From equitable grading practices to providing useful feedback - and more.

How Does it Work?

Go to the UNT ACUE registration page.
Read over the requirements.
Complete the application using your UNT email address.

Selection Process

Selections will be made on a first-come, first-served basis.
Priority will be given to faculty who have never previously enrolled in the full certificate program.
On or about September 11, you will receive an official invitation to participate from ACUE.
Register for and attend UNT's ACUE Course Kickoff September 12, 10-11 a.m. CT (mandatory)
Select an alternative National Course Launch if you cannot attend the UNT Kickoff.
Selected participants must be actively involved and submit a reflection to the Teaching Hub and their department chair upon completion of the program (by August 2026).

Keep an Eye Out...

Registration for additional ACUE programs will be added in the coming weeks. Opportunities will include:

Certification Pathway Courses: Individual courses completed one at a time.
- 8-week, online mini courses, 6 modules per course; cohort based
- Promoting Active Learning—Fall 2025
- Creating a Productive Learning Environment—Spring 2026
Effective Teaching 101 — Earns an ACUE Badge
- Fully online; self-paced; rolling enrollment
- Planning for a Strong Start
- Facilitating Active Learning Experiences
ACUE Commons — Limited to those who have previously or are currently enrolled in an ACUE program
- National network of faculty in an online community
- Up-to-date research, event offerings, and practical tools from ACUE
- Learning Lab-Quick study courses (INSTITUTIONAL ACCESS FOR ALL UNT EDUCATORS!)

Modules

The program includes online modules moderated by ACUE staff and facilitated via Canvas throughout the academic year. Interested faculty can visit the UNT ACUE registration page to apply.

If you have questions about ACUE, contact Yolanda Mitchell at yolanda.mitchell@unt.edu or reach out to faculty.success@unt.edu.