The Integrated Teacher Education Programme (ITEP) is a four-year, dual-major undergraduate course for aspiring teachers, launched by the National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE) under India's National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. By 2030, it will become the minimum degree qualification for all school teachers in India.

Structure and Curriculum

The ITEP is a comprehensive and multidisciplinary course that combines the study of a specialized subject with professional teacher training.

• Dual-Major Degree:

Students earn a bachelor's degree in a subject area (like Arts, Science, or Commerce) along with a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) degree. The final award is a dual-major degree, such as a B.A. B.Ed., B.Sc. B.Ed., or B.Com. B.Ed.

• Four-Stage Specialization:

The curriculum is designed to prepare teachers for one of the four stages of schooling outlined in the NEP 2020: Foundational, Preparatory, Middle, or Secondary.

• Holistic Curriculum:

The course goes beyond standard pedagogy to include:
Foundations in liberal arts and sciences, Indian knowledge systems, and educational psychology.
Training in early childhood care and education (ECCE), foundational literacy and numeracy (FLN), and inclusive education.
Integration of technology and advanced educational pedagogy.

• Practical Training:

A key component is extensive practical experience through internships, field-based learning, and hands-on classroom activities.

Benefits of the ITEP course:

• Saves Time:

The integrated four-year course allows students to save a year compared to the conventional five-year path of a three-year undergraduate degree followed by a two-year B.Ed..

• Produces Highly Competent Teachers:

The holistic curriculum ensures teachers are not only subject-matter experts but are also equipped with modern pedagogical skills, technological proficiency, and a strong understanding of child development.

• Career Advancement:

Graduates are highly sought after in the teaching profession and have a direct pathway to postgraduate studies in education or their major subject.

• Aligns with NEP 2020:

The program is a flagship initiative of the NEP 2020 and is designed to revitalize the teacher education sector and elevate educational quality across India.