Accelerated Programs
Overview
You are already enrolled in a CAEP and PDE-accredited program that produces highly skilled graduates, but did you know that many school districts require educators to earn a Master's degree within five years? By pursuing an accelerated degree program now, you will be more sought-after upon graduation, you will also receive better compensation. According to research published by the National Center for Education Statistics in 2017, the average base salary for teachers with a Bachelor's degree was $47,770 vs. $60,140 for teachers with a Master's degree. Now is the perfect time to consider not only an advanced degree, but an advanced degree with a specialization in Reading. WCU has a long history of excellence in education. Let us help prepare YOU for an outstanding career in the fields of early grades education and literacy.
Students looking for an accelerated pathway to a master's degree in literacy should consider the Accelerated B.S.Ed. in Early Grades Preparation (PreK-4). EGP majors with junior standing and a 3.0 cumulative GPA or higher may substitute up to 9 graduate credits to satisfy program electives. After completing the undergraduate degree, candidates will be able to matriculate into the M.Ed. in Literacy and Reading Specialist Certification and complete the graduate degree.
How it Works
-
Step 1 - MEET WITH YOUR ADVISOR: Meet with your advisor to share your interest in the program. The College of Education and Social Work has a pacing guide to help you (and your advisor) determine the best course for your studies. As a first-year student, you have the most flexibility in choosing your path to the B.S.Ed. to M.Ed. program.
-
Step 2 - APPLY: Apply as early as the end of your sophomore year, but before the first semester of your senior year. You can accelerate by one class, or by four - it's up to you! The earlier you apply, the more you will benefit from the program.
-
Step 3 - BEGIN GRADUATE COURSES: Once accepted to the accelerated program, you will be provisionally accepted to the M.Ed. in Literacy program. You will be able to register for and begin taking graduate courses at the undergraduate tuition rate once you have earned junior status.
-
Step 4 - COMPLETE YOUR BACHELOR'S DEGREE: On target to meet all of your undergraduate degree requirements? Excellent! Apply for graduation and earn your Bachelor's degree. At this point if you plan to continue and complete the Master's degree program you will confirm that through myWCU. As an accelerated student, you are not committing to complete both degrees, but we hope that you will maximize the benefit.
-
Step 5 - GAIN GRADUATE STATUS: If you confirm that you are continuing your studies after completing the B.S.Ed., you will matriculate as a graduate student and be eligible for graduate aid, assistantships, and other graduate student benefits.
Accelerated Program Benefits
- Save time - You can complete both your B.S.Ed. and M.Ed. in five years rather than six (including some summer coursework).
- Save money - Pursue a portion of your graduate courses at the undergraduate tuition rate.
- Less hassle - No need to file an official graduate school application.
- Maximize funds - Use your undergraduate financial aid and scholarships toward your graduate classes through your senior year.
Questions?
Contact Dr. Diane Santori, Accelerated Program Contact, B.S.Ed. - M.Ed. Literacy
610-436-6905 / dsantori@wcupa.edu