Welcome to Providence College's
Education Programs
Students who want to work with children and young adults often choose a major in education. Providence College offers a variety of education programs at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. All programs are accredited by the RI Department of Education and the Interstate Certification Compact. All programs include extensive field experiences in local schools. More information on each program can be found by following the links to the left of this page.
Undergraduate Programs:
Elementary/Special Education
The Elementary/Special Education major is a combined program which emphasizes preparation in both areas. Upon completion of the program, students are eligible for dual certification as both an elementary education and special education teacher in Rhode Island and states with reciprocal agreements.
Music Education
The Music Education major is a balance between the liberal arts program of the college and the requirements for both music and education departments. It is a Kindergarten through grade 12 program. All students must audition and have an interview prior to acceptance into the program.
Secondary Education
Students preparing for the teaching profession in secondary education must complete a subject area major in addition to the teacher preparation program. The subject areas in which students may be certified include: biology, chemistry, English, history, mathematics, modern languages (Italian, French & Spanish), physics, and social studies.
Alternative Certification:
School of Continuing Education-
Teacher Certification Program
The Teacher Certification Program offers an alternative path to certification for individuals seeking a career in secondary education. The program leads to certification in biology, chemistry, English, history, mathematics, modern languages (Italian, French & Spanish), physics, and social studies. This program is open to students who have completed their baccalaureate degree from an accredited college with a CGPA of 2.75 or higher with 30 credits in their major, letters of recommendation, and an interview.
Graduate Programs:
Providence Alliance for Catholic Teaching
The Providence Alliance for Catholic Teachers (PACT) is a two-year program which allows students to complete, at no cost, master's level teacher preparation courses leading to the master of education degree, while at the same time making a significant contribution as a full-time faculty member of an inner-city New England diocesan middle school (grades 5-8) or high school. The program is designed for graduates of liberal arts majors to pursue initial certification in secondary education in a specific content area and for education majors to pursue certification in special education or a middle level education endorsement.
Graduate Studies
The Graduate Studies program in Education offers master of education degrees in Administration (Elementary and Secondary Education), Counseling, Literacy, or Special Education. Program completers are eligible for certification in Rhode Island and states with reciprocity agreements.