About the School of Education and Human Development

Welcome to the School of Education and Human Development! I am proud to lead this diverse and inclusive community of faculty, staff and students who are committed to excellence in learning, community engagement, research and service.

— Joshua Power, '05, '16 (EdD), Dean of the School of Education and Human Development

Read the Dean's Full Message

• Saint Joseph’s University ranks Top 5 out of 176 institutions for best regional universities in the North.
• Saint Joseph’s undergraduate teaching programs ranked #13.
• Our master’s in education program has been recognized in U.S. News & World Report’s 2022 Best Online Programs Rankings.
• 60 public, private, parochial and charter schools in the region have an ongoing Saint Joseph’s presence — from student teachers to ACESJU educators.
• Top employers of SEHD graduates include the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, the School District of Philadelphia and Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP).
• We have over 10 years of serving the autism community through the Kinney Center for Autism Education and Support.

Grounded in the Jesuit commitment of being "with and for others” and the Ignatian tradition of the importance of a rigorous liberal arts core, the School of Education and Human Development aspires to prepare current and future students to become exemplary educators and behavioral health professionals who understand the implications of their field of studies and practices and see themselves as transformative leaders in these areas by:

• Promoting long-lasting and ethically rooted local, national and international partnerships with organizations committed to improving the social conditions of the communities and people they serve.
• Providing educational experiences and programs for our undergraduate, graduate and doctoral candidates that promote a sense of professionalism rooted in a deep commitment to collaboration, interdisciplinary, social advocacy, critical thinking and community engagement, both within and beyond Saint Joseph’s University.
• Fostering a professional identity that draws in the liberal arts tradition of rigor, discernment and the education of the whole person to help candidates see themselves as reflective practitioners who engage in research and critical inquiry to improve their practices and the communities in which they work.
• Engaging in educational, health and organizational policy issues that affect our surrounding communities, whether locally, nationally or internationally, and advocating for policy changes that promote social equality.

The School of Education and Human Development is committed to helping you achieve your educational goals. Our school and the University offer numerous resources and opportunities for you outside of the classroom, including student organizations and honor societies, advising support, career services and events.

During the 2019-2020 academic year, all programs leading to educator certification in the Teacher Education department, Special Education department, and Educational Leadership department underwent Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) major program review. All educator certification programs were approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) on July 29, 2020.

Diversity, equity and inclusion are central to our mission. As a Jesuit University, we’re committed to creating an inclusive, respectful and safe learning environment for all. Through our programs, academic activities and community partnerships, we endeavor to cultivate future educators and behavioral and mental health professionals who embrace DEI and strive to create a more just and compassionate society. Learn more about diversity, equity and inclusion at Saint Joseph’s University.

Interested in learning more about the School of Education and Human Development? Contact us to request more information about our programs and for all other inquiries.