Our Programs

The Department of Education offers three programs that lead to a B.S. degree and Pennsylvania Instructional I teacher certification.

All of our programs prepare you to design effective instruction for diverse learners, assess student learning, and manage complex learning environments. All three programs provide you with early and continuing field experiences in local public schools and a 12-week supervised student teaching experience.

Early Childhood Education (N-3)

The early childhood education major prepares you to teach in preschools and grades K-3 in public and private schools. As part of your preparation, you will have opportunities to work in the campus Early Learning Center, assuming administrative responsibilities and designing the curriculum.

Elementary Education (K-6)

The elementary education major prepares you to teach grades K-6 in public and private schools. The major includes an 18-credit disciplinary focus - a wonderful opportunity for you to declare a minor in an academic discipline that interests you.

Special Education (N-12, Cognitive, Behavior and Physical/Health Disabilities)

Special education is offered as a dual certification program with elementary education. You will major in elementary education and complete certification requirements for both elementary and special education. The special education program will prepare you to differentiate instruction, diagnose individual learner needs, and manage state and federal regulations.

The Department of Education also offers three minors and one concentration:

Education Minor

The 18-credit education minor provides an opportunity for any Messiah College student to study the field of education without completing a teacher certification program.

Early Childhood Education Minor (and Private Nursery School Certification)

The 28-credit early childhood education minor is available to any Messiah College student who is interested in working with young children. Students who complete the minor are eligible for Private Nursery School Certification through the Pennsylvania Department of Education.

Urban and Multicultural Education Minor

This 18-credit minor is designed to provide opportunities for teacher certification students to study the variables and dynamics associated with urban educational settings and culturally diverse learners. Students complete the minor with a combination of courses and field experiences taken at Messiah College and Temple University in Philadelphia.

Special Education Concentration

This 12-credit concentration enables elementary and early childhood education majors to enhance their knowledge and skills in the field of special education without pursuing the certification program.