Degree Programs

The role of parents, educators, doctors and others in the development of children is crucial to their success. Saint Joseph's University's Child and Family Studies major is designed for students looking to specialize in the care and development of young children and youth. Through your coursework and field experience as a childhood studies major, you will learn how to better serve your community, starting with our youngest generation.

Saint Joseph's University's Elementary/Middle school (4-8) major is built upon a strong liberal arts curriculum, helping students integrate their understanding of interdisciplinary content with child and adolescent learning.

At Saint Joseph's University, education is approached as a vocation rather than a career. Aspiring teachers learn how to manage a classroom and effectively teach, as well as how their role as educators make a difference in their communities.

Through the dual Education PK-4 and Special Education program, you will learn how to manage a classroom and effectively teach while learning how your role as an educator can make a difference in the community.

At Saint Joseph's University, we believe every student in grades 7 through 12 deserves an educator who is prepared, passionate, and ready to meet them at this pivotal stage of their lives. The 30-credit Master of Science in Secondary Education is built to help you become that teacher.

Learn how to manage a classroom and gain experience through student teaching as you prepare to inspire the next generation of learners. This 100% online program allows you to finish your degree while balancing work, family and other responsibilities.

The Autism Behavioral Studies minor at Saint Joseph’s University prepares students to support, understand and empower individuals on the autism spectrum. Through interdisciplinary coursework and hands-on learning opportunities, you’ll gain foundational skills in applied behavior analysis (ABA), developmental psychology and evidence-based practices used to improve the lives of individuals with diverse learning needs and their families.

A minor in educational studies at Saint Joseph’s University is designed for undergraduates who are interested in building a base in education without earning Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) certification. You will take classes in childhood and adolescent development, language, literacy, culture, assessment, evaluation and more.

A minor in special education studies is available for undergraduates who are interested in expanding their knowledge of the field of special education without earning certification.