06/28 - The University of Scranton Introduces New Education Programs

Responding to a nationwide need for special education teachers, The University of Scranton will offer two new education programs beginning this fall.

A unique, combined five-year bachelor's/master's program in special education/elementary education will allow graduates to earn both a second credential and a master's degree. It is the only program of its kind in Northeastern Pennsylvania.

The University is also introducing a new master's degree in special education. Graduates of this comprehensive program will receive a master of science in special education and a Pennsylvania credential for teaching exceptional students from nine disability areas from kindergarten through grade 12.

"This program should be highly attractive for general education graduates interested in immediate employment in an area of national need," said Tim Hobbs, assistant professor of special education.

According to state and national statistics, the job market for special education teachers is growing at a rate of 37 percent annually throughout the nation. In Pennsylvania alone, there are currently about 830 job vacancies in this field.

"Because of the national shortage of special education teachers, as many as 25 percent of special education classes are currently taught by teachers who are not specifically trained to teach special needs children in mainstream classrooms," said Barbara Cozza, Ph.D., assistant professor of education. "The University of Scranton's two new programs provide opportunities for teachers to receive advanced training in an important and rapidly growing area of education."

"Graduates of these programs will be qualified to teach in a nationally significant area of education - that of teaching children with special needs in regular elementary classrooms," added Dr. Cozza.

Students enrolled in the combined bachelor's/master's program have two options. They can earn a bachelor's degree in elementary education in four years and a master's in elementary education and credential in special education in the fifth year. Or, they can earn a bachelor's degree in special education in four years and a master's in special education and a credential in elementary education in the fifth year.

During their junior year, students can apply to the combined bachelor's/master's program for entry during their senior year. In their senior year, students take two graduate courses to contribute toward both the bachelor's and master's degrees. Students must also pass a comprehensive examination before the master's degree will be awarded.

Similarly, students enrolled in the master's of special education program can choose from two options. Individuals currently certified in another area (for example, elementary education) can seek an advanced degree and certification in special education. This option leads to a master of science degree in special education with a second specialized credential. It requires 43 semester-hour credits in course work.

The second option is for individuals who do not hold an instructional certificate and are seeking a certificate to teach special needs students. This option requires 54 semester-hour credits in course work.

The Department of Education at The University of Scranton is accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education. All education courses are taught in McGurrin Hall, a state-of-the-art facility with laboratories and classrooms specifically designed for education instruction. For additional information about these programs, call (570) 941-7421.