Here are application documents for you to download:
The application deadline (postmark) is Friday, February 6, 2026. This is a competitive application process.
The application process requires:
- Cover page
- Moral character form
- Official transcripts from post-secondary institutions
- Essays addressing cultural relevance, commitment to teaching, accomplishments
- Three letters of recommendation from individuals who attest to the applicant’s qualifications working with children
- One Source Criminal History Check
Applicants will be notified of their status by Friday, April 17, 2026. Program activities and UNL courses begin in May 2026.
Mail completed applications to:
Nancy Engen-Wedin
University of Nebraska - Lincoln
Indigenous Roots Teacher Education Program
156 Carolyn Pope Edwards Hall
Lincoln, NE 68588-0233
Review this, if you have questions about the program you are applying for:
1) If you currently have an Associates Degree or at least 42 credits towards an Associates or Undergraduate Degree, you will indicate that you are interested in the INITIAL CERTIFICATION and/or Bachelors Degree program.
2) If you currently have a Bachelors Degree but do not have teacher certification, you will indicate that you are interested in the INITIAL CERTIFICATION program.
3) If you currently have a teacher certificate and are teaching in a school or other educational setting and are interested in getting additional certification in ELL or Special Education, you will indicate that you are interested in ADDITIONAL CERTIFICATION.
Once your Indigenous Roots application is submitted, it will be reviewed, along with others, and you will be notified one way or another, of your acceptance into the program. Once accepted, you will be required to complete an application to be admitted into UNL’s undergraduate or graduate program(s). This is a separate application process and is not to be completed until you have been notified of acceptance. Indigenous Roots and UNL staff will assist in this process, once you have been selected to participate.
If you have any questions, please contact Nancy at 402-472-3856 or nengenwedin2@unl.edu.