The Alternative Routes to Certification program constitutes a number of special pathways designed to meet the needs of individuals who possess a unique set of qualifications wanting to focus on secondary education. Alternative Routes are heavily, but not entirely, based in the field. Candidates for certification in these routes are assigned mentors in a school district in addition to their cooperating teacher. The Alternative Routes program is an 18-credit program that begins in June. Candidates must complete a 40 hour practicum experience in a summer school setting. Beginning in the fall, candidates will enter an open ended internship in a school. A traditional internship will begin on or before the first day of school and continue through a minimum of one semester, although typically internships continue for longer. When the candidate feels ready and prepared, the university supervisor will administer the Washington State Pedagogy Assessment. When the candidate has successfully completed the pedagogy assessment and remained as a full time teacher for a minimum of six weeks, then she or he can begin to "phase out" of student teaching.