Entering Education with an M.Ed. Degree – and Ready to Teach Pre-K Through Fourth Grade Wednesday, April 29, 2020
Virginia (Ginny) Chambers, Ed.D., assistant professor of education at Point Park University
"The School of Education at Point Park University has a diverse faculty who come from a variety of K-12 backgrounds offering expertise and knowledge in Pre-K through fourth grade education. Point Park faculty have been trained for successful online learning and teaching. Our class sizes are small, allowing the faculty to provide students with individualized attention to ensure success."
Tell us about the Master of Education program offering teaching certification in Pre-K through fourth grade.
Our M.Ed. in PreK through fourth grade education is a 42 credit, fully online cohort model program. It includes 12 courses (12 courses at three credits each and a student teaching practicum course for six credits).
Throughout the program, we offer a variety of courses covering Pennsylvania Department of Education Pre-K through fourth grade competencies. These courses include subject methodology, assessment, differentiation, special education and culturally responsive teaching.
The School of Education at Point Park University has a diverse faculty who come from a variety of K-12 backgrounds offering expertise and knowledge in Pre-K through fourth grade education. Point Park faculty have been trained for successful online learning and teaching. Our class sizes are small, allowing the faculty to provide students with individualized attention to ensure success.
What key advantages does Point Park offer compared to other similar master's programs?
Each course we offer is fully online with field experience and classroom observations included in the course assignments. Students enroll in one eight-week course at a time and complete two courses per semester. This allows students to focus on the content and requirements of only one course at a time, making the program manageable for students with a full-time job or other responsibilities.
Our students take courses in the fall, spring and summer terms, so the program can be completed in under two years. Each student will be assigned to an advisor to assist them in course registration, program requirements and career opportunities. During the 12-week student teaching practicum, students have a University supervisor and cooperating teacher to provide support and guidance throughout their practicum experience.
What career opportunities are available to graduates of this program?
Upon completion of this program, our students will have earned a Master of Education degree and will be eligible for certification as a Pre-K through fourth grade level educator in Pennsylvania. Our program is a great fit for students interested in a teaching career in Pre-K to fourth grade classrooms.
Point Park University also has The Professional Career-Readiness Center. This education and resource center provides programs and services to enhance student success by creating opportunities to achieve career readiness and increase knowledge of career pathways.