Point Park University

What you'll study

This programme combines advanced study of teaching and learning theory with method-specific coursework and supervised practicum experiences. Core topics include curriculum design and alignment, assessment for learning, instructional leadership, adult learning and professional development design, classroom management, culturally responsive pedagogy, and educational research methods.

Method- and level-specific courses focus on instruction tailored to particular settings—elementary literacy and math methods, adolescent content-area pedagogy for middle and high school, differentiated instruction for students with diverse learning needs, and English as a second language methodology where applicable. Students typically complete a field-based practicum or capstone project that translates theory into measurable classroom or school improvement work.

The programme is offered with flexible delivery formats to accommodate working educators, including evening and blended course options. Coursework emphasizes practical application: lesson and unit design, formative assessment systems, coaching and mentoring techniques, data use for instructional decision-making, and the creation of professional development frameworks for PK–12 settings.

Entry requirements

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution; applicants with a degree in a non-education field may be eligible for method-specific pathways that include initial teacher preparation components.
• Official transcripts demonstrating satisfactory undergraduate performance.
• Current résumé or curriculum vitae outlining relevant teaching or educational experience.
• Statement of purpose describing professional goals and reasons for pursuing the programme, including preferred level or method focus.
• Contact information for professional references (usually two), and in some cases a recommendation from a current or recent supervisor.
• Some applicants—particularly those seeking practicum placements—must clear background checks and any required state-mandated screening to work with children.
• Applicants without teaching certification should consult the School of Education about routes to initial certification or conditional admission; applicants with existing certification may be eligible for advanced standing or certification-specific tracks.

Career prospects

• Classroom teacher at the elementary, middle or high school level (for those completing certification requirements).
• Instructional coach or mentor supporting teacher development and classroom observation cycles.
• Curriculum specialist or coordinator designing scope-and-sequence and assessment systems across grades.
• Professional development coordinator for school districts, educational non-profits or charter networks.
• Specialist roles in ESL, special education methods, or content-specific pedagogy depending on the chosen method area.
• Education consultant, instructional designer, or continuing professional development provider in K–12 or higher education settings.
• Preparation for further leadership pathways, including school building administration or district-level leadership with additional credentials or certification.

Why study at Point Park University

Point Park’s downtown Pittsburgh location provides direct access to a broad range of urban and suburban school districts for field placements and partnerships. The School of Education emphasises applied, career-focused training delivered in small cohorts so students benefit from close faculty mentoring and sustained peer collaboration.

Faculty teaching in the programme bring current PK–12 experience and applied research interests in pedagogy, assessment and professional learning. The university’s flexible scheduling and blended course options are designed to accommodate working educators, and its career and field placement services help connect students with practicum sites, district partners and local employment opportunities.

Students also benefit from an institutional focus on integrating arts, technology and community engagement into curriculum and instruction—an advantage when designing innovative professional development and classroom practices responsive to diverse learners.