Fast Track Your Future in Education: Earn Your Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees in Just 4½ Years
The School of Education at Point Park University is redefining what it means to prepare future educators. Our fast-track programs offer highly motivated undergraduates in any degree program the opportunity to complete both their bachelor’s and Master of Education (M.Ed.) degrees, including Pennsylvania teacher certification, within 4½ years, including summer terms.
Through a blend of undergraduate and graduate coursework, students gain early access to master’s-level learning, advanced teaching preparation and real-world classroom experience, which can help them launch their careers sooner and with stronger credentials.
Fast-Track Program Options
- M.Ed. in Pre-K to Grade 4 Education (with Pa. Certification)
- M.Ed. in Special Education Pre-K to Grade 12 (with Pa. Certification)
- M.Ed. in Secondary Education Grades 7–12 (with Pa. Certification)
- M.Ed. in Dance Education Pre-K to Grade 12 (with Pa. Certification; option for B.F.A. Dance students only)
- M.A. in Dance Education (non-certification program; option for B.F.A. Dance students only)
- M.Ed. in Athletic Coaching (non-certification program; begins junior year)
Students in the Pre-K to Grade 4, Special Education, Secondary Education and Dance Education tracks complete their in-person student teaching and certification requirements during the final fall semester of the program.
How the Fast Track Works
Students begin graduate coursework during their undergraduate studies, allowing them to build momentum toward advanced credentials while completing their bachelor’s degree.
| Timeline | Program Milestones |
| Summer after sophomore year | Begin master’s coursework (Athletic Coaching begins junior year) |
| Junior & senior years | Continue integrated undergraduate and graduate coursework |
| Spring (senior year) | Earn bachelor’s degree |
| Summer after graduation | Continue master’s coursework |
| Fall (post-graduation) | Complete certification/student teaching (as applicable) and remaining master’s courses |
| December | Earn M.Ed./M.A. degree |
Why Choose the Fast Track?
Accelerate Your Path to Teaching
Graduate with a master’s degree and certification in just 4½ years, entering the field earlier and with advanced credentials.
Save Time and Tuition
Reduce the overall cost of your education by beginning graduate-level coursework during your undergraduate program.
Learn from Expert Faculty
Courses are taught by experienced educators and practitioners dedicated to your success.
Flexible Online Graduate Courses
All M.Ed. coursework is offered fully online in convenient 8-week sessions, providing flexibility for your busy schedule. The final semester of student teaching is in-person at a Pennsylvania school (not applicable to the M.A. in Dance or the M.Ed. in Athletic Coaching).
Gain Real-World Experience
Hands-on field placements and student teaching experiences prepare you to make an immediate impact in classrooms and communities.
Collaborate Across Disciplines
The Fast-Track model promotes partnership between the School of Education and other academic departments, including the Conservatory of Performing Arts, the Rowland School of Business, the School of Arts and Sciences and the School of Communication.
A Forward-Thinking Pathway to Teaching and Leadership
Point Park University’s fast-track programs respond to the growing demand for qualified teachers and educational leaders while giving students an efficient, high-impact route to success. These programs embody our commitment to innovation, collaboration and career-readiness by empowering you to make a meaningful difference in education sooner.
Ready to Fast Track Your Future?
Start your journey toward becoming a certified educator or educational leader. Keep these application points in mind:
- Apply in your sophomore year. (Even if you selected a fast-track major upon entering the university, before you can take graduate classes, you must apply and be admitted to your preferred graduate program.)
- Students must have a 2.75 QPA to be admitted to the fast-track program.
- In addition to the application, students must submit a headshot and a picture of your driver's license or passport.