Seton Hill University will be offering a Master of Arts in Teaching with Early Childhood Education (PreK-4) Certification as a new online graduate program with the first cohort starting in June 2024.

This 30-credit program combines eight-week online classes with 12 weeks of in-person student teaching. Full-time students will be able to complete the program in one year. 

Applications are now being accepted for the first cohort. New cohorts will begin annually in June.

“Seton Hill University is always looking to gear its program offerings towards meeting workforce demands and leading our graduates to find meaningful employment,” said Seton Hill Provost Susan Yochum, SC, Ph.D. “The Pennsylvania Department of Education predicts a continued high need for highly-qualified, new teachers and this program aims to fill that need.”

“A nationwide teacher shortage is currently being felt throughout the State of Pennsylvania as the number of certified teachers in the state has decreased  approximately 75% from a decade ago with the pandemic intensifying this issue,” said Dean of the School of Education and Applied Social Sciences Dr. Kathleen Harris. “Initiating this graduate program at Seton Hill University will support adults who always wanted to be teachers but never had the opportunity to pursue this dream.” 

“This program is a great fit for those looking to change careers and seeking that initial certification to become a teacher,” said Dr. Julie A. Warnick, Ed.D., Director of Graduate & Online Studies at Seton Hill University. “The online nature of the program offers flexibility to those seeking to change careers, and the ability to complete the program with a master’s degree and certification within a year, while gaining hands-on experience through student teaching, offers students a quick timeline to get into the classroom.”

To apply or find out more information about Seton Hill’s Master of Arts in Teaching with Early Childhood Education (PreK-4) Certification, visit our website. Interested students can contact Julie Warnick in the Graduate & Online Studies Office at 724-838-4208 or email gadmit@setonhill.edu.