Cresson, Pa. – Mount Aloysius College announced today new options for individuals looking for a career in special education. Starting this fall, students can pursue a bachelor’s degree in special education (PK-12), a dual certification bachelor’s degree in early level education (PK-4) and special education (PK-12), or a post-baccalaureate certification in special education. A minor in special education is also available.
“We are very excited to offer these pathways for future special education teachers,” said Carla Swartz, program coordinator for the Mount’s special education program. “Nationally, 45 percent of public schools report a shortage in special education staff. Roughly 26% of schools in Pennsylvania currently have at minimum one special education position unfilled. These new degree options offer exciting opportunities for students while meeting a desperate need in our community.”
In addition to high-tech classroom spaces, students in the Education Department at the Mount have the opportunity to work directly with children at two on-campus lab schools, the MAC Learning Center/Pre-K Counts operated by the Cambria County Child Development Corporation and the Early Head Start/Head Start Center operated by the Community Action Partnership of Cambria County. Both centers operate out of the Cosgrave Student Center on the MAC campus. Through these programs, future teachers gain hands-on experience as students transition from early intervention to school-age, and they may work with children throughout the evaluation process to determine special education support and services.
“We are facing a teacher shortage across the nation,” said Dr. Dave Haschak, Vice President for Academic Affairs. “As a long time leader in education, we are proud to expand our offerings to address real teaching needs in our community and beyond. These new programs will make it easier than ever for current and future teachers to get certified in special education and launch successful careers.”
The new special education bachelor’s and certificate programs are accredited by the PA Department of Education. For more information about Mount Aloysius College, visit mtaloy.edu.
