News Stories

SANTA CLARA, Calif, Sept. 7, 2022 — In response to the growing demand for flexible teacher-education programs, Santa Clara University’s School of Education and Counseling Psychology (ECP) is bringing its Teacher Education programs online, offering a Master of Arts and teaching credential for public, private, and Catholic school teachers. Aligning with the commitment to prepare educators dedicated to ensuring all learners are supported in the classroom, this program is the first online offering from the School of Education and Counseling Psychology.

As with the current teacher-education curriculum, the online programming will give students the ability to make the program their own— offering pathways to focus on their chosen area of study including Catholic-school-focused education, a Bilingual-Spanish authorization, or an internship format.

Also like the existing in-person program, online students will participate in an intensive experience ensuring they feel a connection to their professors, peers, and the university. The experience will provide students with an opportunity that immerses them in the SCU community. 

ECP’s 10-year-old Catholic Master’s in teaching will welcome its first group of online students in summer 2023 and its new Online MA in teaching and teaching credential program will begin in fall 2023.

Santa Clara University’s teacher-education programs have earned a reputation for preparing some of the most sought-after graduates in public, private, and Catholic school settings. In all programs, students begin their journey with foundational courses that emphasize Santa Clara’s dedication to promoting inclusive classrooms, multicultural learning, and educational equity.

“By moving this program online, we are able to extend the opportunity for prospective students all across California to enroll in our high-quality, personalized MA and credential programs,” said ECP Dean Sabrina Zirkel. “We prepare graduates with cutting-edge teaching methods, a focus on inclusive classrooms, and a deep commitment to educational equity.”

Building upon the university’s Jesuit value of Cura Personalis, or care for the whole person, the new online and hybrid modalities will give students additional flexibility to pursue their degree in a manner that maximizes convenience and life balance in their studies. With the new online option, students have the ability to tailor their experience to their personal needs—whether it be balancing a full-time job, reducing commute times, or tending to family commitments.

“In a time full of unpredictable changes and a shift to a heavier reliance on technology, the launch of the online MA in teaching and teaching credential programs could not be more timely,”says Kathy Stoehr, chairperson for the University’s Department of Education. “Through this program we hope to empower aspiring educators to re-envision the future of education, and explore different modalities and tools that can support our shared vision of an equitable and inclusive education for all students.” 

Santa Clara’s programs cultivate teachers who are passionate about their communities and have a strong desire to make a real difference in the world. Students are provided the opportunity to work in practicum settings to blend theory and practice. 

Many ECP students participate in the SEMILLA Teacher Fellowship, which provides a 50% tuition scholarship, professional development, and additional support for students who commit to working at least two years after graduation in high-need schools serving low-income students. As part of this program, the fellows engage in volunteer service hours each year of their program in neighboring communities.

Scholarships and financial assistance are available. Apply now.

About the School of Education and Counseling Psychology

The School of Education and Counseling has been serving the Santa Clara community for over 100 years preparing outstanding educators, therapists, and advocates who are grounded in the Jesuit value of a deep respect for all and a commitment to social justice. Led by our expert faculty, students join an immersive program designed to inspire education and ensure everyone has access to the psychological tools and support they need to propel towards flourishing lives of meaning, purpose and connection. For more information, visit www.scu.edu/ecp 

Media Contact

Deborah Lohse | SCU Media Communications | dlohse@scu.edu | 408-554-5121

Program Contacts

Kathy Stoehr

kstoehr@scu.edu

Chairperson, Department of Education

School of Education and Counseling Psychology

John Beltramo

jbeltramo@scu.edu

Director of CatMAT

School of Education and Counseling Psychology

Jana Hee

jhee@scu.edu

Senior Assistant Dean, Enrollment Management and Student Services

School of Education and Counseling Psychology