Paraprofessionals have varied career goals. Some enjoy their jobs as paraprofessionals and want to remain in the profession for the long-term. Others are interested in becoming teachers. Some are interested in other careers related to the field of education. Finally, there are those who are undecided about their career goals. Where a paraprofessional identifies him/herself on this career matrix influences the choices he/she makes regarding college study.
Through the Department of Education's Career Training Program (CTP), full-time paraprofessionals are eligible to take up to six (6) credits a semester at nearly all of The City University of New York colleges as well as several private colleges. A paraprofessional can major in any subject he/she chooses and can go either as a matriculated student (degree student) or as a non-matriculated student (non-degree student).

Matriculated students are earning credits towards the completion of a degree. Non-matriculated students are earning credits,however these credits are not being applied towards a degree. (Students are cautioned not to remain in the non-matriculated status for too long. Often, paraprofessionals earn over 60 credits as non-matriculated students, have no degree to show for their efforts, and are disappointed when college coursework transfers as elective credit when they do matriculate.)

Paraprofessionals receive salary increases for every 15 credits they obtain (up to 60 credits) regardless of whether they are matriculated or non-matriculated. A final increase is available to those who have 90 credits and are matriculated. (Additional information about pay raises can be found in your UFT contract.)

The Paraprofessional Academy has identified 4 career paths for teaching assistants. Which path are you currently following? Remember no one path is better than the other. Also, people can change paths several times in a lifetime or remain on one indefinitely.

PATH 1: Career Paraprofessional
PATH 2: Paraprofessional-to-Teacher
PATH 3: Other Careers
PATH 4: Undecided