The University of Saint Joseph in West Hartford is offering tuition waivers for those seeking to become second-career educators in Connecticut.

Submitted

A memorandum sent out earlier this month by Connecticut State Board of Education Commissioner Charlene M. Russell-Tucker identified 11 certification endorsement areas with a lack of qualified certified educators.

“Filling vacancies with certified teachers in these areas is an urgent need for Connecticut’s students,” Commissioner Russell said in the memo.

A new tuition waiver offered by the University of Saint Joseph is designed to help fill some of those vacancies with those who seek a rewarding second career in education.

Individuals with bachelor’s degrees interested in becoming a licensed teacher can take advantage of a one-time $2,024 tuition waiver for the 2024-2025 academic year by applying for and enrolling in at least six (6) credits in either the Comprehensive Special Education M.A.T. or the Secondary Education M.A.T this fall. A M.A.T. degree is an advanced teaching degree that focuses on practical and subject-area instructional skills, for bachelor’s degree holders interested in starting or developing a career in classroom education.

Half of the $2,024 tuition waiver will apply in the first semester, and half in the second if the student remains enrolled in six credits per semester. This offer will remain active through Aug. 23, 2024.

“Offering a tuition incentive for shortage areas in special and secondary education is crucial for both attracting new educators and helping career changers transition into roles where their skills can make a meaningful and immediate difference in our communities,” said Ashley C. Oldham, Ph.D., Education Department Chair, and associate professor of Education.

To apply for these or other graduate programs at USJ, please email the Office of Admissions at [email protected].

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