New literacy-focused masters program is approved by PA Dept. of Education.
Bryn Athyn College is launching a new Master of Science in Special Education (MSSPED) with a literacy concentration. The development of this degree is a significant achievement for Bryn Athyn College as it expands graduate programs into the field of education.
The MS in Special Education with a literacy concentration prepares candidates to support students experiencing a range of learning differences, with an emphasis on addressing the needs of struggling readers. Throughout their course of study, graduate students will engage with a spiritually-based philosophy of education focused on cultivating teachers’ self-reflection and ability to attune to the developmental needs of their students, which will enrich the critical skills, knowledge, research opportunities, and practica in the program curriculum.
Dr. Kelly Ballard, head of the MSSPED program at Bryn Athyn College, stated, “I am excited to offer teachers the critical knowledge and experiences required to meet the needs of struggling readers and students with learning differences, while fostering skills to nurture the innocence of youth within the demanding academic environments of today’s classrooms.”
The program follows a cohort model design that offers collaborative relationships and incorporates an optional participation in the Bryn Athyn College Teacher Residency program. This unique, 9-month placement opportunity offers in-depth, hands-on experiences for graduate students seeking a level of expertise and practice in specialized school settings designed to meet the needs of students with language-based learning differences. Students who complete the program and have their initial Pre-K-4, K-6, or other PA required general education certification will be eligible to apply for the PA Pre-K-8 Special Education teacher certification.
Bryn Athyn College is now actively recruiting its first cohort of graduate students in the field of education, who will begin their course of study in the summer of 2019.To learn more about the MSSPED program at Bryn Athyn College, contact Dr. Kelly Ballard, Head of MSSPED program: Kelly.ballard@brynathyn.edu or 267-502-2416.