Pennsylvania Teacher Colleges and Degrees Online Guide

Pennsylvania requires that all teachers complete a teacher preparation program in order to become eligible to teach in the state. Fortunately, there are several colleges and universities that offer teacher preparation programs. The information found in our guide below is designed to help aspiring teachers find quality teaching schools in Pennsylvania. Continue reading to find a table of accredited, state-approved teacher preparation programs, lists of top-rated teaching programs, and student reviews. Whether you’re looking to change careers or embarking on your first, this guide to teaching degrees in Pennsylvania is a great place to find a program that is right for your future career goals.

Table of Contents

• Teacher Preparation Program Comparison
• Top-Ranked Schools with Education Programs
• Select Schools with Teacher Preparation Degrees
• Schools with Associate Degrees in Education
• Student Reviews

Quick Facts

• There are 111 colleges and universities with teacher degree programs in Pennsylvania.¹
• 29 schools offer an associate’s degree in education.¹
• 85 schools offer a bachelor’s degree in education.¹
• 79 schools offer a master’s or advanced degree in education.¹
• 47 schools ranked in Teacher Certification Degrees’ Best Online Master of Education (M.Ed.) Programs.
• 3 schools ranked in Princeton Review’s Great Schools for Education Majors 2022.²
• 13 schools ranked in US News & World Report’s Best Graduate Education Programs 2023.³
• 19 schools ranked in US News & World Report’s Best Online Graduate Education Programs 2022.⁴
• 16 educator preparation programs (EPPs) are accredited by the NCATE, TEAC, or CAEP.⁵

For not-for-profit schools with teacher degree programs.

Comparison of Pennsylvania Schools with Teacher Preparation Programs

We have designed the following table to help you compare teacher preparation programs in Pennsylvania according to various factors. All of the schools included are not-for-profit institutions approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) for the preparation of teachers. Completing a state-approved teacher preparation program is an important step towards earning licensure.

While accreditation from the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) is not a requirement for licensure, it is included in the following table as CAEP provides a highly-regarded accreditation that is accepted in many states.

You will also find data on teacher preparation program enrollment, completion, and licensing exam pass rates by institution, for both traditional and alternative programs, for the 2019-2020 academic year in this table. These data points are collected from annual US Department of Education reports under Title II (Teacher Quality) of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA), which holds institutions and state departments of education accountable for increasing academic achievement through improvements in teacher quality. Traditional teacher preparation programs are usually completed as part of a bachelor’s degree program. Alternative certification programs are typically designed for career changers looking to enter the field and lead to a postgraduate certificate or a master’s degree. Many schools in our table offer both traditional and alternative programs. Take a look at our Pennsylvania traditional and alternative certification guides for more information.

Finally, we have provided the net price per year for undergraduate tuition, based on the cost of attendance (tuition, books, room and board, and related expenses) for students who qualify for in-state tuition and fees, less the average financial aid award (including grants and scholarships).

• — indicates none or not applicable.
• N.Av. indicates data was not available or pass rates were omitted for confidentiality.

Top-Ranked Schools with Education Programs in Pennsylvania

Best Online Master of Education Programs in Pennsylvania

• Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania (#1)
• Lehigh University (#2)
• University of Pennsylvania (#3)

Visit our ranking of the best online Master of Education (M.Ed.) programs in Pennsylvania to see the full list plus a breakdown of the most affordable schools.

Princeton Review’s Great Schools for Education Majors 2022

• Bucknell University
• Duquesne University
• Villanova University

US News & World Report’s Best Graduate Education Programs 2023

• University of Pennsylvania (#1)
• University of Pittsburgh (#32 tie)
• Pennsylvania State University-University Park (#41 tie)
• Temple University (#54 tie)
• Lehigh University (#62 tie)
• Drexel University (#143 tie)
• Duquesne University (#143 tie)
• West Chester University of Pennsylvania (#188 tie)
• Indiana University of Pennsylvania (#192 tie)
• Arcadia University (#207-274)
• East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania (#207-274)
• Neumann University (#207-274)
• Robert Morris University (#207-274)

US News & World Report’s Best Online Graduate Education Programs 2022

• Pennsylvania State University-World Campus (#8 tie)
• University of Pittsburgh (#34 tie)
• Drexel University (#60 tie)
• West Chester University of Pennsylvania (#60 tie)
• Edinboro University of Pennsylvania (#77 tie)
• Clarion University of Pennsylvania (#80 tie)
• Duquesne University (#93 tie)
• Arcadia University (#157 tie)
• Kutztown University of Pennsylvania (#162 tie)
• Millersville University of Pennsylvania (#171 tie)
• St. Joseph’s University (#171 tie)
• Indiana University of Pennsylvania (#199 tie)
• York College of Pennsylvania (#237 tie)
• California University of Pennsylvania (#242-321)
• Cedar Crest College (#242-321)
• Eastern University (#242-321)
• East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania (#242-321)
• Point Park University (#242-321)
• Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania (#242-321)

Select Pennsylvania Schools with Teacher Preparation Degrees

Clarion University of Pennsylvania

Clarion University of Pennsylvania’s School of Education offers teacher preparation programs for various levels, from early childhood to secondary education. At the undergraduate level, students can choose from an Associate of Science (AS) in Early Childhood Education, a Bachelor of Science in Education (BSEd) in Early Childhood Education, a BSEd in Middle Level Education, or a BSEd in Secondary Education with various areas of concentration. Post-baccalaureate programs leading to teacher certification are available to applicants with a bachelor’s degree in a subject other than education. Alternatively, individuals with a bachelor’s degree may apply to the graduate programs, which offer a more in-depth opportunity to learn educational theory and teaching skills. Graduate degrees include the Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Early Childhood, M.Ed. in Mathematics, and the M.Ed. in Technology. Many of Clarion’s graduate degrees are offered online.

Pennsylvania State University

Pennsylvania State University (Penn State) offers numerous teacher preparation certificates and degree programs through the College of Education. The Bachelor of Science (BS) degree is offered with nine teacher certification concentrations including Elementary & Early Childhood Education; World Languages Education; and Middle Level English Education. Certificate programs leading to additional teacher certification areas include English as a Second Language (ESL) and K-12 Reading Specialist. Master of Education (M.Ed.) and Doctor of Education (PhD and DEd) degrees are offered in Higher Education; Lifelong Learning and Adult Education; and Educational Leadership. A unique joint degree program, combining the M.Ed. and Juris Doctor (JD) through the Penn State School of Law, may appeal to students interested in legal intersections in the field of education. Many graduate degrees are offered with online learning options.

University of Pennsylvania

The University of Pennsylvania (UPenn) is home to the Graduate School of Education (GSE), which offers master’s and doctoral degrees in many areas related to education. The Urban Teaching Residency (UTR) program enables graduate students to earn a Master of Science in Education (MSEd) and initial teacher certification for Pre-K-12 in two years. The UTR program focuses on urban education settings using a social justice approach to teaching and learning. UPenn also offers degrees designed for working professionals, including some unique offerings such as the Master of Science (MSEd) in Education Entrepreneurship and the Doctor of Education (EdD) in Teaching, Learning, and Teacher Education. Programs that meet the requirements for additional teaching certification areas are also available, including the Reading Specialist Certification and State Principal Certification. Undergraduate students can complete a minor in Urban Education or apply for special permission to complete MSEd coursework during their junior or senior years.

Schools with Associate Degrees in Education

While a bachelor’s degree is the minimum educational level required to qualify for state certification, an associate’s degree can be the first step towards a career in education. It can qualify graduates for careers in non-licensed roles in early childhood education, after-school care, and related areas. The credits earned from an accredited associate degree program can also typically be transferred towards a bachelor’s degree. The following Alabama schools offer associate’s degrees in education.¹ Schools with an asterisk (*) also offer four-year teaching programs and/or alternative route to certification programs.

Bucks County Community College
275 Swamp Rd
Newtown, PA 18940
(215) 968-8000
www.bucks.edu

Butler County Community College
107 College Dr
Butler, PA 16002
(724) 287-8711
www.bc3.edu

California University of Pennsylvania
250 University Ave
California, PA 15419
(724) 938-4400
www.calu.edu

Clarion University of Pennsylvania*
840 Wood St
Clarion, PA 16214
(814) 393-2000
www.clarion.edu

Clarks Summit University*
538 Venard Rd
Clarks Summit, PA 18411
(570) 586-2400
www.clarkssummit.edu

Community College of Allegheny County
800 Allegheny Ave
Pittsburgh, PA 15233
(412) 237-3100
www.ccac.edu

Community College of Beaver County
1 Campus Dr
Monaca, PA 15061
(724) 480-2222
www.ccbc.edu

Community College of Philadelphia
1700 Spring Garden St
Philadelphia, PA 19130
(215) 751-8000
www.ccp.edu

Delaware County Community College
901 Media Line Rd
Media, PA 19063
(610) 359-5000
www.dccc.edu

Edinboro University of Pennsylvania*
219 Meadville St
Edinboro, PA 16444
(814) 732-2000
www.edinboro.edu

Gannon University*
109 University Sq
Erie, PA 16541
(814) 871-7000
www.gannon.edu

Harrisburg Area Community College
1 HACC Dr
Harrisburg, PA 17110
(800) 222-4222
www.hacc.edu

Immaculata University*
1145 W King Rd
Immaculata, PA 19345
(610) 647-4400
www.immaculata.edu

Lackawanna College
501 Vine St
Scranton, PA 18509
(570) 961-7810
www.lackawanna.edu

Lehigh Carbon Community College
4525 Education Park Dr
Schnecksville, PA 18078
(610) 799-2121
www.lccc.edu

Luzerne County Community College
521 Trailblazer Dr
Nanticoke, PA 18634
(800) 377-5222 ext 7337
www.luzerne.edu

Manor College
700 Fox Chase Rd
Jenkintown, PA 19046
(215) 885-2360
www.manor.edu

Montgomery County Community College
340 Dekalb Pike
Blue Bell, PA 19422
(215) 641-6551
www.mc3.edu

Mount Aloysius College*
7373 Admiral Peary Hwy
Cresson, PA 16630
www.mtaloy.edu

Northampton County Area Community College
3835 Green Pond Rd
Bethlehem, PA 18020
(610) 861-5300
www.northampton.edu

Northern Pennsylvania Regional College
300 2nd Ave
Warren, PA 16365
(814) 230-9010
www.regionalcollegepa.org

Pennsylvania Highlands Community College
101 Community College Wy
Johnstown, PA 15904
(888) 385-7325
www.pennhighlands.edu

Pennsylvania Institute of Technology
800 Manchester Ave
Media, PA 19063
(610) 892-1000
www.pit.edu

Pennsylvania State University
State College, PA 16801
(814) 865-4700
www.psu.edu

Point Park University*
201 Wood St
Pittsburgh, PA 15222
(412) 391-4100
www.pointpark.edu

Reading Area Community College
10 S 2nd St
Reading, PA 19602
(610) 372-4721
www.racc.edu

Saint Francis University*
117 Evergreen Dr
Loretto, PA 15940
(814) 472-3000
www.francis.edu

Westmoreland County Community College
145 Pavilion Ln
Youngwood, PA 15697
(724) 925-4000
westmoreland.edu

Wilson College*
1015 Philadelphia Ave
Chambersburg, PA 17201
(717) 264-4141
www.wilson.edu

Student Reviews

Butler County Community College
107 College Dr
Butler, PA 16002
(724) 287-8711
https://www.bc3.edu/

Student Review: “My overall experience with the Secondary Education program offered at Butler County Community College has been positive. The college has an excellent amount of resources available to pre-service teachers at multiple times during the week and a friendly staff. The professors are very dedicated to nurturing future teachers as well as preparing them for the PAPA exams. I have found the professors to have been extremely helpful and effective as a teacher and truly challenges students. I would highly recommend this school to any student who is looking to go into teaching in Pennsylvania but needs to save money at the same time.” -Rebecca S., student at Butler County Community College

Student Review: “I am so glad I chose my local community college as a place to start my path towards a degree in Secondary Education. Since 9th grade I knew I wanted to be a high school mathematics or science teacher. Community college was the way to go, balancing quality of education, price, and closeness to the community I’ve been in all my life. At first I was dismayed by the amount of General Education courses I’m required to take but as I progress into the core classes for my field I become more acquainted with what it will mean to be an educator and my morale is lifted. The faculty has been great, always there to help with my academic load but also to pass on what it means to answer the calling of educating young minds. I look forward to the future.” -Student at Butler County Community College

Chatham University
Woodland Rd
Pittsburgh, PA 15232
(412) 365-1100
https://www.chatham.edu/

Student Review:“Since Chatham is such a small school, the personalized attention you get is great as is the small class sizes. The professors really get to know you as a person. But the education program itself is a disaster. You are not prepared for the hands-on teaching experience; most of the content is theory-based. Classes are also not at all challenging. They can be enjoyable at times, particularly when teaching mock lessons to classmates, but beyond that, they’re just easy. My thinking was not stretched at all. In the end, the program sets you up for failure in the actual classroom. For a private university costing upwards of $40,000 a year, I am now a college graduate and unemployable. I would not recommend this program to anyone who is serious in their desire to teach.” -Runa Z., student at Chatham University

Community College of Philadelphia
1700 Spring Garden St
Philadelphia, PA 19130
(215) 751-8000
https://www.ccp.edu/

Student Review: “First of all, I have to admit that my experience in this college was absolutely amazing. There are several people who have said some negative comments to me about the college, but once I joined I have felt the total opposite. Taking each education course in this college has forged a different personality in me. I feel that I am more mature, more knowledgeable, and more responsible in this world. Thanks of course to the tremendous efforts of the professors at this college and to the down-to-earth approach they use when talking to students and fulfilling their needs. The academic background of the professors is certainly of high standards, though the quality of material used in the courses is debatable. All in all, the educational environment in the college that I attended is absolutely a healthy one that promotes good and positive learning.” -Jonas M., student at Community College of Philadelphia

Drexel University
3141 Chestnut St
Philadelphia, PA 19104
(215) 895-2000
https://drexel.edu/

Student Review: “Early childhood education at Drexel University was very challenging, yet rewarding. I remember being initially shocked at how challenging an education major was compared to some other majors. For some reason, I wasn’t expecting such a needed career to involve so many obstacles. The workload was intense and many of the classes were first thing in the morning. Along with five classes per week, as opposed to the normal four, we had student teaching from 8 AM to 4 PM on Wednesdays. Despite all of the difficulties I have been mentioning, this was the silver lining. I was placed in a 3rd-grade classroom. In this school district, which was a great one, the curriculum called for an inclusion program regarding special needs children. Through this experience, I found I had a passion for working with Autistic children. It brings many challenges but my experience with Drexel’s early childhood education and special needs programs have prepared me wholeheartedly.” -Angie A., student at Drexel University

Student Review: “Drexel University has been one of the most pleasant experiences I have had in my lifetime. I have learned so much about myself and my work ethic. There are so many opportunities available, for example, the co-op during undergraduate and many more student ran organizations which help facilitate the true Drexel experience. I have learned to manage my time well through the quarter system. Overall, Drexel has allowed me to gain a solid education and build a foundation for the lifetime.” -Mohil P., student at Drexel University

Kutztown University of Pennsylvania
15200 Kutztown Rd
Kutztown, PA 19530
(610) 683-4000
https://www.kutztown.edu/

Student Review: “Kutztown University provided an adequate teacher preparation program. The professors seemed to have a great deal of classroom experience and generally seemed enthusiastic about teaching and preparing students to enter the education field. A great deal of time is spent on lesson plan development and best practices for delivering information to students, many of the strategies I learned I still use in my classroom today. The most beneficial aspect of the education program was the amount of time required to be in an actual classroom. Upon entering the program you are expected to do a minimum of 20 observation hours in a classroom. Before student teaching is a professional semester where half of the semester is spent working in classroom and then there is a semester of student teaching. The university does an excellent job of varying your placements, so you see a variety of grades, subjects and locations (ural/rural/suburban). One area that I feel could be improved is the emphasis on lesson plan writing. Much time was spent on students writing lesson plans according to the Kutztown lesson plan format. In reality, all districts require different lesson plan formats so spending so much time perfecting ours for Kutztown seemed to be a waste of time that could have been focused elsewhere. I also feel that Kutztown was lacking in technology courses. Technology is an essential part of teaching and very little time was spent on learning about different ways to integrate learning into lessons.” -Christine K., student at Kutztown University

Student Review: “Overall Kutztown is a great school. I’ve had some really great professors and classes are usually meaningful and useful to me as a teacher. Most of the things I’ve learned have helped me considerably in the world of education. The education department there is solid and will do whatever they can for you. All you have to do is ask and do your part! Aside from the education department and many of my professors, my biggest issue (which is why I gave Kutztown a three-star rating) is the administration. I had such trouble with the administration. If they mess up, prepare to jump through hoops to get it fixed. I was a post-bach teacher cert and Masters of Education student. They changed my program (given I was the only one doing the double program) and suddenly – boom! They told me my program didn’t exist and the classes for it weren’t being offered. After many phone calls and emails, the ed department just stepped in and fixed it instead of leaving me in limbo. Overall though, it’s a great place to learn, especially for education majors. I feel like I’m way ahead of other teachers because of it.” -Student at Kutztown University

Student Review: “I attended Kutztown University to earn a post-baccalaureate teaching certification and Master’s Degree in Education. As far as general education and professors, it was an excellent school. The teachers were genuinely caring and even agreed to do independent study classes or distance classes to fit my program. I am still in contact with several of the professors today (about 2 years later). Administration-wise, Kutztown was a mess. At one point they told me that my degree didn’t exist anymore and that I had to start over, another time they refused to give me a class that due to a technicality they couldn’t offer even though they did. In the end, the professors ended up bailing out the administration’s messes and fixing it each time. The education chair is amazing and will do whatever it takes to help you get into a classroom. Most of the history department is great. You have one or two folks that aren’t very good, but 95% of them are great. Overall, if you want a small, rural campus where you can get to know your professors, this is the university for you.”-Student at Kutztown University

Mercyhurst College
501 E 38th St
Erie, PA 16546
(814) 824-2000
https://www.mercyhurst.edu/

Student Review: “So far, my experience at Mercyhurst University as an Education major has been very rewarding. I have a work study job at a nearby daycare which allows me to have more experience with children, making me more marketable upon graduation when combined with the future experiences I will gain as I complete student teaching and my practicum. I am a freshman and have taken one class so far and am taking two more next trimester (starting November 26th). In this one class, I have already been able to establish a portfolio of lesson plans and activities that I can use in the future. My professors are willing to give any advice and share lots of stories about their own experiences in the classroom that help guide us to success when we have our own. We even have a curriculum library section that includes materials we can use in the classroom as well as a section of children’s books for us to use. I have already utilized this great benefit and because of it have gotten great ideas. We also have Kappa Delta Pi, a student honors organization for Education majors. Also, the opportunity to major both in special education and early childhood education as a dual major provides a chance to complete a degree in the same amount of time but with more qualifications upon entering the job market.” -Deanna M., student at Mercyhurst College

Millersville University of Pennsylvania
40 Dilworth Rd
Millersville, PA 17551
(717) 871-4636
https://www.millersville.edu/

Student Review: “I was positively surprised at how well Millersville University provided me with a well-rounded education and an opportunity to get involved with others. I personally benefitted from the large number of staff and resources available. My professors challenged me but were caring enough to offer their support and time to students that needed it. The size of Millersville’s campus was just right, being compact, yet big enough to not get bored. There are numerous beautiful spots on campus, including the old library and the pond. There are multiple dining facilities on campus, offering a multitude of foods. The university also sponsors many events, including movie screenings that I took advantage of. My only complaint is that the computers were often slow and printers always seemed to be out of paper. However, there were several computer labs to choose from.” -Heather H., student at Millersville University of Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania State University
State College, PA 16801
(814) 865-4700
https://www.psu.edu/

Student Review: “I had a great time during my years at Penn State. Although there were 40,000 students that attended the main campus, I never felt like it was too big. There were enough small classroom experiences that I was able to feel comfortable and get to know most of my professors. I was able to take a wide array of class subjects before deciding on my major. Most of the professors I had were great and you could tell they really cared about the subject matter. The surrounding area is beautiful and there is a lot to do downtown. I would recommend this school to anyone and I had the best four years of my life at Penn State. I would love to go back for grad school someday soon.” -Matt F., student at Pennsylvania State University

Student Review: “The Pennsylvania State University’s education program was an ideal experience for me. The program was designed in a way that the first two years were more of the introductory courses or general education classes, and the final two years were more of hands-on, field-based experience. Once you enter your final two years, you are placed in a teaching “block” where you are grouped with students on a similar track. This block provides a great way to meet students who you have a lot in common with, you can study with, and share experiences with. The courses in the teaching block were taught by a group of about 4-5 professors who you really got to know in the final years at Penn State. I also really enjoyed the observations and field experience at the nearby elementary, middle, and high schools. The only aspect of the program I would change is possibly adding more freshman seminar-type courses your first year, which might allow you to meet your future teaching block classmates a little earlier. By the time I met them in my junior and senior year, I had wished I would have known them the entire time!” -Student at Pennsylvania State University

Student Review: “The Secondary Education program at Penn State provides students with a solid foundation for an education based career. The teachers have a passion for the subject and can relate to future educators. This program allowed me to spend half of a semester teaching in Auckland, New Zealand. This opportunity gave me a new perspective on American based educational programs and provided me with a once in a lifetime opportunity. As with any program, there is always room for advancement and improvement. The Earth and Space Science teaching option is not a popular pick for a major and due to that I was the only one in my specific program. The lack of students in the program caused the required courses to be slightly outdated. Some of the courses which were required for graduation were no longer taught at Penn State. The advisers were very accommodating once this was brought to their attention, but I feel as though a program should refine throughout the years and evolve with the school. Overall, I greatly enjoyed my time at Penn State and feel as though it gave me a great foundation for a long career in education.” _Student at Pennsylvania State University

Saint Josephs University
5600 City Ave
Philadelphia, PA 19131
(610) 660-1000
https://www.sju.edu/

Student Review: “I am currently in my 4th and final year at St. Joe’s getting my degree in elementary and special education. I have learned a lot, had a lot of hands-on classroom experience and enjoyed my professors. One of the most interesting things about St. Joe’s is that I completed my final year in their online program. The online program requires students to attend online classes with video conferencing for assignments and weekly discussion boards. One hundred percent of the program can be done online, which makes it a very flexible program for those who cannot attend a traditional college program. Obviously, it takes a lot of preparation and planning, and I needed to set up and complete quite a few observations and aiding hours. However, I was able to do this close to my home on the day of my choosing. The staff was mostly very available and helpful via email or Blackboard’s version of Skype. I did, however, miss teacher office hours, and having verbal class discussions. Overall, I have really liked this program and have learned a lot!” -Beth D., student at Saint Josephs University

Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania
1871 Old Main Dr
Shippensburg, PA 17257
(717) 477-7447
https://www.ship.edu/

Student Review: “My experience in the teaching program at Shippensburg University was fantastic. I truly felt prepared when I began teaching. I feel that Shippensburg has a higher standard than most colleges in PA. Shippensburg’s grade requirements are higher than the rest of the schools in the state system. Shippensburg professors demanded excellence and are wonderful. Not only did they teach the education classes at the university, but also they also substituted in the classrooms of the surrounding districts. It was nice to see the professors remain an active part of elementary education. Shippensburg also has an elementary school on campus. This allows the education students access to a classroom during freshman year. All of the classrooms have one-way mirrors that allow for observation with no disruption. Shippensburg provided a great student teaching experience for me. My requirements were beyond other student teachers in the state university system. Unlike many of those teachers, I was prepared when I graduated from Shippensburg. So much so, that I actually had a job as a permanent substitute for the rest of the year. Shippensburg has a fantastic reputation and an excellent education program. I highly recommend this program to anyone interested in teaching.” -Jennifer K., student at Shippensburg University

Susquehanna University
514 University Ave
Selinsgrove, PA 17870
(570) 374-0101
https://www.susqu.edu/

Student Review: “I feel as though Susquehanna University did an excellent job in preparing me for most aspects of teaching. Because the University is small, but that allowed for extra connections to be made with faculty and allowed for more opportunities to take many courses. I loved the flexibility of the program and the wide range of courses. I think the program lacked in preparation for real classroom management situations as well as Elementary General Music as a whole. I was able to work in public school classrooms starting in my freshman year, and worked with real students throughout my entire time at the university. I had many opportunities to teach before student teaching, which I think is incredibly important. I am in my 5th year of teaching and think my success has come from my degree and training at Susquehanna. I would recommend this program to anyone looking for music education.” – Student at Susquehanna University

Temple University
1801 N Broad St
Philadelphia, PA 19122
(215) 204-7000
https://www.temple.edu/

Student Review: “I am currently a senior at Temple. Their class selection is great. The professors are acceptable as long as you do your research on them. I learned a lot here, and they really offer a lot of resources for you to take advantage of. There are offices to help you with career choices and internships. Some of the buildings here are very old but other buildings (Tuttleman, Alter Hall) are cutting-edge, have comfy seats, smart-boards, and do not feel as crummy. The tuition for PA students is pretty low, and there is even a tuition freeze going on right now to help out the students. I know safety is a high priority concern, seeing as Temple is in one of the worst parts of Philadelphia. Needless to say, the campus is the cleanest area for miles, and there are lights on 24/7. It’s is very safe on campus. If you live off campus, just keep your wits about you and don’t go asking for trouble. There are lots of activities to keep students busy, and lots of clubs. In conclusion, Temple isn’t a bad school for its value. The worst part about it is that it’s in Philadelphia, but if you can adjust to that, you will learn a lot and have a good time as well.” -Robert M., student at Temple University

Student Review: “Temple University is a wonderful school. As an early childhood and elementary education major, I have been challenged and learned a great deal. I feel this program is preparing me to work in programs servicing children in nursery school, kindergarten and elementary schools. I have gained an appreciation and understanding of children and am acquiring a sound philosophy of education. The program has excellent professors who are there to help the students learn and accomplish their goals. As an education major, we are required to do field experience at different schools. By working directly with children I was able to study the reactions of children of various ages to different situations and helped me to gain insight into the creation of learning situations and the planning of teaching procedures which meet the needs of children.” -Student at Temple University

University of Pittsburgh
4200 Fifth Ave
Pittsburgh, PA 15260
(412) 624-4141
https://www.pitt.edu/

Student Review: “The program at Pitt SIS was generally a good one that was constantly changing and updating in order to meet the needs of the evolving school librarian environment. These changes made it very up to date but created problems for those attending part-time. If you attended part-time, requirements and documentation might change from one year to the next thereby making some classes you took prior obsolete. The other issue that I ran into was when scheduling your in school training – or practicum. If you worked and attended school part-time you were unable to find a track that would work for you and would have to keep putting off your practicum. This resulted in a lag in part-time or older students who had difficulty scheduling their in-class training. However, despite these few tendencies toward difficulty, the teachers were prepared to walk students through any and all possibilities and a lot of the classes were general education classes that trained you on dealing with students with special needs, students with challenges, and exceptional students. Every possibility was well covered and dealt with. Most of the scenarios you were walked through were applicable to real life.” -Student at University of Pittsburgh

Student Review: “I think that the teacher education program has been beneficial overall but there isn’t enough focus on practical applications of concepts in the classroom. It’s hard to know how to do things without actually experiencing them. We can learn about classroom management but until you have to do with it in real life then it’s all just hypothetical. I think a lot of the teacher prep system is like that. It would be more useful to be learning all of the information at the same time as we are teaching, and not just before. This seems to be how all teacher programs work though.” -Student at University of Pittsburgh

References:
1. National Center for Education Statistics College Navigator: https://nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator/
2. The Princeton Review. The Best 385 Colleges, 2022 Edition. The Princeton Review, 2021.
3. US News & World Report Best Graduate Education Schools 2023: https://www.usnews.com/best-graduate-schools/top-education-schools/edu-rankings
4. US News & World Report Best Online Graduate Education Schools 2022: https://www.usnews.com/education/online-education/education/rankings
5. Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP): http://caepnet.org/provider-search
6. US Department of Education 2021 Title II Report: https://title2.ed.gov/Public/Home.aspx