CHALLENGEAccelerated Bachelor’s Degree in Education
About the program
Dual Teacher Certification: PreK–4 Early Elementary & PreK–12 Special Education
Neumann University’s new Accelerated BA in Education is built for busy adult learners who want to complete their bachelor’s degree and earn two Pennsylvania teaching certifications. This program removes barriers, offers flexible online courses, and supports you from application to graduation.
Whether you are changing careers or returning to college, this accelerated education degree allows you to turn your passion for helping children into a meaningful profession. With dual certification in early elementary and special education, graduates are uniquely positioned to support diverse learners and make a lasting impact in classrooms across Pennsylvania.
BA in Education Program Highlights
- Earn TWO state teaching certifications
- PreK–4 Early Elementary Education
- PreK–12 Special Education
- Accelerated format designed specifically for adult learners
- 100% online coursework with engaging, supportive faculty
- Affordable tuition with access to the T.E.A.C.H. scholarship and financial aid
- Transfer up to 55+ credits from previous institutions
- Career-focused field experiences embedded throughout
The Accelerated Bachelor’s Degree in Education Program was designed for:
- Early childhood educators seeking to finish their BA
- Childcare professionals advancing their careers
- Adults balancing work, family, and school
- T.E.A.C.H. scholarship recipients
- Anyone ready to become a certified teacher through a supportive and flexible pathway
Accelerated Bachelor’s Degree in Education | Program Structure (45 Credits)
- 45 credits of professional education coursework (may vary depending on transfer credits)
- Methods courses in literacy, math, science, and social studies
- Courses in instructional technology, assistive tech, and inclusive practices
- Student teaching in your final semester
Accelerated BA Degree in Education | Tuition & Admission
Tuition is based on the number of credits students are enrolled in. For more information, visit the Office of Financial Aid.
Requirements for Admission to the Accelerated BA in Education Program
- Minimum of 55 transfer credits (we evaluate each transcript individually)
- Completed application
- Official transcripts from all prior institutions
For more information on admissions requirements at Neumann, visit our admissions page!
Dr. Laura McLaughlin is a professor of education, director of graduate education, director of the Center for Excellence, and an author dedicated to transforming teaching and learning through innovation and intentional practice. With over 20 years of experience supporting adult learners, Laura has provided training, professional development, and coaching in both corporate and educational settings, with a particular focus on learner-centered design and meaningful engagement.
You can reach her at 610-513-6144 or mclaughl@neumann.edu.
Degree Completion Webinar | April 30 at 12:00 AM EST
General Admissions Webinar | February 10 at 12:30 PM EST
Frequently Asked Questions
What Can We Answer For You?
What is the job outlook for teachers in Pennsylvania and nationwide?
Demand for certified teachers remains strong across the U.S., especially in early childhood and special education. Many school...
What is the job outlook for teachers in Pennsylvania and nationwide?
Demand for certified teachers remains strong across the U.S., especially in early childhood and special education. Many school districts face ongoing shortages due to retirements and increased student support needs. Graduates with dual certification in early elementary and special education are particularly well positioned for stable, long-term employment in public and private schools.
Why is special education certification in such high demand?
Schools are serving more students with diverse learning needs than ever before, and federal and state laws require qualified special...
Why is special education certification in such high demand?
Schools are serving more students with diverse learning needs than ever before, and federal and state laws require qualified special education teachers in every district. Educators trained in inclusive practices and special education support students’ academic success, social development, and confidence. Because of the profound impact they make every day, special education is widely regarded as one of the most rewarding and mission-driven areas within the teaching profession.
Can I become a teacher later in life or after working in another field?
Yes! Absolutely! Teaching is a profession people often discover later in life—and when you find that calling to mentor and...
Can I become a teacher later in life or after working in another field?
Yes! Absolutely! Teaching is a profession people often discover later in life—and when you find that calling to mentor and shape young minds, it’s a powerful and rewarding career move. Your prior work experience doesn’t disappear when you become a teacher—it adds value. Life experience, leadership skills, and real-world knowledge make you a more relatable and impactful educator. Accelerated teacher preparation programs are built to help working adults make this transition while managing career and family responsibilities.
Who Is This Program For?
- Early childhood educators seeking to finish their BA
- Childcare professionals advancing their careers
- Adults balancing work, family, and school
- T.E.A.C.H. scholarship...
Who Is This Program For?
- Early childhood educators seeking to finish their BA
- Childcare professionals advancing their careers
- Adults balancing work, family, and school
- T.E.A.C.H. scholarship recipients
- Anyone ready to become a certified teacher through a supportive and flexible pathway
What are the admissions requirements?
- Minimum of 55 transfer credits (we evaluate each transcript individually)
- Completed application
- Official transcripts from all prior institutions
What are the admissions requirements?
- Minimum of 55 transfer credits (we evaluate each transcript individually)
- Completed application
- Official transcripts from all prior institutions
Why Choose Neumann?
- Faculty with deep expertise in adult learning, special education, and early childhood education
- Personalized advising and one-on-one support
- A mission-driven community grounded...
Why Choose Neumann?
- Faculty with deep expertise in adult learning, special education, and early childhood education
- Personalized advising and one-on-one support
- A mission-driven community grounded in Franciscan values
- A proven track record of supporting working educators
Can I Finish My Degree Online? What to Know Before You Decide
Key Takeaways
- If you have some college credits, an associate’s degree, or relevant work experience and are thinking about going back to school, you...
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