This is a combined program leading to Pennsylvania Department of Education certification in both Early Education and Special Education. Early childhood education allows students to take courses that provide a solid foundation in child development, family studies, and early childhood education. By obtaining dual certification, future educators are also prepared to impact the lives of children with disabilities, developmental delays, and learning disorders. Thus, preparing future educators with the ability to meet the needs of a wide range of children.
Early Education (Pre-K to Grade 4) Dual Major With Special Education (Pre-K to Grade 12)
WHY STUDY EARLY EDUCATION AND SPECIAL EDUCATION AT CHC?
Chestnut Hill College’s Early Education and Special Education Dual Program is designed to provide a choice that meets the interests of our students. This program is in line with the guidelines established by the Pennsylvania Department of Education.
Students learn theory and have multiple opportunities for practical experience regarding the physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development of young children in grades PK-4, as well as students in grades PK-12 with disabilities. Enrollment in a dual-major leads to a variety of career options as a future educator.
Across the nation, teachers who have been teaching for 25 years or more are retiring from the profession. Since 2010, this mass retirement has opened more than 10,000 new teaching positions per year. New teachers can choose from a variety of classroom settings that match their background, college preparation, and particular philosophies.
Positions are currently available in the following settings:
- Private schools which offer specialized curricular, usually connected to a specific philosophy
- Parochial schools which offer specialized curricular woven with specific faith teachings
- Public schools, including Charter schools which offer curricula aligned to state and national standards, with many varieties of organizational structures
Kappa Delta Epsilon
Kappa Delta Epsilon is an honorary professional society, the purpose of which is to promote the cause of Education by fostering a spirit of fellowship, high standards of scholastic attainment, service, and professional ideals among its members. Requirements include an overall GPA of 3.00 or higher, Junior status, and formal acceptance into the Education Department. Eligible students must be approved by the Department.
Council for Exceptional Children
Membership in the Council for Exceptional Children is open to all Education majors and minors. The Council provides students with opportunities to become knowledgeable with the latest research on the educational needs of children with disabilities, to foster a spirit of educational fellowship and to provide service to students, schools, and organizations working in the areas of special education.
-
Lauren M. Barrow, Ph.D.
Chair, Center for Education, Advocacy & Social Justice Associate Professor of Criminal Justice
-
Marie Leahy, SSJ, Ed.D.
Chair, Undergraduate Education Associate Professor of Education
-
Elizabeth McGowen, M.S.
-
Father Robert Mulligan, OSFS
Chaplain
Assistant Professor of Education -
Leonard Spearing, Ph.D
Assistant Professor of Education