The school of education has branched out and created three new degree programs for students to choose from.
The new degree options include: a Bachelor’s of Science in education for Pre-K through grade four, a middle-level education mathematics and middle-level education English degree, and a dual degree in special education and Pre-K through 4th grade.
Millersville University granted its approval of the new degree programs in December of 2008.
The new degree changes are the result of recent changes made by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, entitled Chapter 49-2.
The programs, which received approval from the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education (PASSHE) in January, are now one step closer to final approval.
“We have come a long way because of the hard work of the faculty to get stuff ready for multiple approvals,” said Dr. Jane Bray, dean of the School of Education.
The department is at the final step in the process. The Pennsylvania Department of Education must review the potential course specifics, and decide whether or not approval will be granted.
Students who are currently enrolled in the department will not be affected if they continue with their current degree and gain their teaching certification before Aug. 31, 2013.
The faculty has been working non-stop to get materials ready for review.
“The work was far more than anyone ever intended it to be,” said Bray. “The new programs will prepare our teachers and students in a far greater way than before.”
The Council of Trustees is going to consider four Millersville University Foundation Endowments.
The endowments include Edna Butler Cohen ’27 for mathematics, E. Kathryn Miller Kraybill ’15, Biology Scholarship and Student Independent or Honors College Biology Research.
Students within the department have mixed emotions on the subject.
“I’m mad I’m not a freshman now,” said Junior Katie Duyn. “It would have gone good with the dual major instead of what I’m doing now, because I would rather just work in the elementary school.”
Freshman Chris Doyno said, “I’m a freshman, so it’s easy for me. I like the new options and it’s a better way to break it up into groups.”
Some students feel the break-up of the department is hindering a broader area of study. “I don’t like the new options,” said Sophomore Ryan Coleman. “ I think it’s narrowing what you can teach because now you have to select Pre-K through grade four.”
Despite the various student input, the teaching staff is more than happy to start the new degree options.
“There isn’t a person here that isn’t excited about it,” added Bray.
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