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Undergraduate Catalog 08-09
Revised May 2008
Academic Affairs
West Chester University's undergraduate programs include teaching certification programs, local certificate programs, and programs of study leading to the bachelor of arts, bachelor of fine arts, bachelor of music, bachelor of science in education, bachelor of science, bachelor of science in nursing, and bachelor of social work. A complete list of undergraduate degree programs appears on page 59. Programs of study at the graduate level are also available. These are listed on pages 35-36 and are described in detail in the Graduate Catalog.
The University provides to able students with outstanding achievements in scholarship, community service, the arts, and/or leadership the opportunity to participate in a challenging honors curriculum and to receive appropriate recognition when they complete the requirements. The aim of the Honors College is to provide an inviting environment for academically gifted and highly motivated students to interact and form a learning community of peers, faculty, administrators, and staff that will challenge and enrich the students' college experience.
The Honors College seeks cross-disciplinary connections, in the liberal arts tradition, to develop students' natural intellectual abilities, and to challenge them to use these skills on behalf of the larger community. Qualified students may participate in Honors thorough one of three tracks: entering freshmen, honors seminar program, and the undergraduate certificate program in leadership and civic engagement. Membership is highly competitive and based on attainment and maintenance of a cumulative 3.25 grade point average, regular enrollment in honors courses, and service to the campus community.
Honors students who have successfully completed their first year in the college may qualify for a Bonner AmeriCorps service-learning scholarship. An education voucher of $1,000 will be awarded to students who verify 300 hours of community service during a calendar year.
The college provides housing in Killinger Hall for on-campus residents. Rooms feature direct connection to the University computer system. Students also have membership in the Honors Student Association.
An Honors Council, which includes both faculty and students, sets the policies of the college. A committee of that council, working with the director, determines the admission and retention of students. Students completing the full honors program receive designation on their University transcript and the right to wear a medallion of achievement at commencement. Recognition at commencement is based on the student's academic record as of the completed semester prior to commencement. Transcript recognition also is given to students who complete the seminar and certificate programs.
Further information about the Honors College - requirements, offerings, housing, and the co-curricular activities of the Honors Student Association - is available from the Honors College Office, 703 S. High St., West Chester University, West Chester, PA 19383; phone, 610-436-2996; fax, 610-436-2620; e-mail, honors@wcupa.edu; or Web, www.wcupa.edu/honors/.
Established in 1973, the Office of International Programs assists in coordinating study abroad programs and provides essential services for international students, foreign scholars, and international faculty.
Students are encouraged to participate in semester or year-long study abroad programs as well as summer study abroad programs. The Office of International Programs provides numerous study abroad information sessions every semester and a study abroad fair in the fall semester each year. The schedule for these events is available in the office at the beginning of each semester.
All West Chester University immigration services are provided through the Office of International Programs. A variety of services such as Homeland Security - SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) compliance, orientation, international experience financial awards, and support services are provided for approximately 125 students and scholars from more than 50 countries.
The office is housed with Graduate Studies and Extended Education in McKelvie Hall, 102 W. Rosedale Ave.
The academic development program (ADP) is designed to provide an opportunity for a college education at West Chester University to those students who do not meet current admission requirements but who show a potential for success in college. Students admitted to the program are expected to take advantage of the program components which have been developed to enhance their skills in reading, writing, speaking, mathematics, and critical thinking, as well as to help them in their transition from high school to college.
The ADP comprises a series of required courses supplemented by specialized tutoring, counseling, priority scheduling, and advising.
The program begins with an intensive, five-week session during the summer which students must complete. Any developmental course work taken during this time is credit-bearing, but these credits are not applicable toward graduation.
Students in the program also are required to complete EDR 100, SPK 208, and WRT 120, which should be taken as soon as possible. All of these courses satisfy University requirements for graduation. Students will be advised also on the completion of general education requirements and, as necessary, on the transition to a major course of study.
For further information, please contact the academic development program, 222 Lawrence Center, 610-436-3274.
The University takes seriously its commitment to excellence and student success, and therefore academic programs and student services regularly engage in assessment of student learning, student preparedness for employment, and student perceptions and satisfaction. All students are expected to participate in assessment of programs when requested in order to provide valuable feedback to the University community.
National Student Exchange Program
West Chester is one of approximately 180 participating colleges and universities across the United States and Canada that offers students the opportunity to spend a maximum of one year of study at another college or university. The exchange program enables students to experience a quarter, semester, or year at another university or college, yet not encounter complications such as transfer credits and out-of-state tuition. While encouraging students to experience and appreciate various cultural perspectives, the National Student Exchange Program also provides students with the opportunity to take advantage of specialized courses and programs that may not be available at West Chester.
To qualify for the program, students must be full time, have a 2.50 cumulative GPA, and should be a sophomore or junior during the period of exchange to ensure that students share experiences and insights with other students when resuming their studies at West Chester. Applications and further information are available from the National Student Exchange coordinator in the Office of the Registrar. Applications are due February 15 of each year. A nonrefundable fee is required of all students who apply for the National Student Exchange Program. For more information, contact the Office of the Registrar, 610-436-3085.
Pennsylvania State System Visiting Student Program
Undergraduate students enrolled in a degree program who have earned 27 credits and are in good academic standing have the opportunity to enroll as a visitor for a fall, spring, or summer term at any of the other 13 Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education institutions. The program allows students to take advantage of specialized courses, programs, or experiences not available at the home institution without losing (home) institutional residency. Advance approval from both the home and the host institutions is required. Visiting student program information is available at the Office of the Registrar, E. O. Bull Center, 610-436-3085.
Students interested in pursuing environmental degree programs may choose from those identified below. Consult the departments listed for details on these programs.
Ecology. Offered by the Department of Biology, this program provides a strong background in field biology and prepares students for careers as biologists in environmental agencies, industry, consulting firms, and similar organizations. (See page 67 for more information.)
Environmental Health Science. Offered by the Department of Health, this program synthesizes a rigorous scientific preparation with specialized, applied environmental courses and a required internship. Courses include topics such as industrial hygiene and safety, risk assessment, environmental regulations, water quality, emergency preparedness, bioterrorism, toxicology, and a research-based seminar. This degree program prepares graduates for careers as environmental scientists in consulting firms, industry, and government. (See page 106 for specific program information.)
West Chester University recognizes that some students will select career goals that will require pursuit of academic degrees after the baccalaureate, either in graduate school or at a professional school. Students with such goals are encouraged to discuss them with appropriate members of the faculty.
Pre-Medical. Students interested in graduate studies in one of the health professions (medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine, optometry, podiatry, or physician assistant studies) are encouraged to apply for admission to the pre-medical program, which is supervised by members of the Pre-Medical Committee. More information about this program can be found under the pre-medical program listing in the section, "Programs of Study and Course Offerings."
Pre-Law. Students who are interested in exploring a career in law are encouraged to meet with the pre-law adviser early in their academic careers and to participate in the Pre-Law Society. Because no single major course of study guarantees admission to law school, students should take courses that sharpen their reading comprehension, critical thinking, analytical reasoning, research, and oral and written communication skills. These skills can be gained through courses across all disciplines. In addition to undergraduate academic performance (reflected in a student's grade point average), law school admissions officers consider a student's score in the Law School Admissions Test (LSAT) in making admissions decisions. Beyond these quantitative measures of academic potential, law school admissions officers will consider other nonquantitative factors, including a student's personal statement and letters of recommendation. The pre-law adviser is available to assist students in preparing all aspects of their application package. For more information, please contact Sandra M. Tomkowicz, associate professor and pre-law adviser, 312D Anderson Hall, 610-436-2365, or stomkowicz@wcupa.edu.
Engineering. West Chester University, in cooperation with The Pennsylvania State University at University Park and the Penn State Harrisburg campus, provides a program in which, at the end of five years, a student earns a B.S. in physics from West Chester University and a B.S. in engineering from Penn State University. Students spend three years at West Chester and two years at Penn State, taking only engineering-related courses. All mathematics, physics, cognates, and general education courses are taken at West Chester University. Students may choose from many fields of engineering, some of which are listed in the "Physics" section of this catalog. This program is not available to transfer students.
A similar dual-degree, cooperative physics/engineering program is available through West Chester University's affiliation with the School of Engineering and Textiles of Philadelphia University. This program is available to all freshmen and to transfer students. Please contact the Department of Physics for further information on either of these cooperative programs.
West Chester University embraces the concept that effective academic advising is a collaborative teaching and learning process between the student and the faculty adviser. The Undergraduate Academic Advising Committee believes that effective advising should assist students in achieving their academic, professional, and personal goals. Faculty advisers will strive to provide accurate, timely, and current information, thus establishing the framework around which students will construct their academic program of study.
The University community – students, faculty, and staff – shares the responsibility for student success. Individual students need to take ownership and responsibility for their educational and career goals by assuming an active role in the classroom and being aware of policies and requirements necessary for graduation. The University is responsible for providing a supportive environment where students can receive quality academic advising and also be referred to other campus resources that will provide assistance and help students succeed.
Advising assignments are made by the academic department of the student's program of study. Students who are admitted to the University as "undeclared" are assigned an adviser through the Pre-Major Academic Advising Center (132 Lawrence Center, ext. 3505). Students may find the name of their assigned academic adviser on their myWCU portal page. All students are strongly encouraged to meet with their academic adviser on a regular basis, at least once per semester.
Students who choose to pursue an academic minor will also be assigned an adviser in the minor. The minor adviser will assist the student in understanding the requirements of that particular program.
Pre-Major Academic Advising Program
The Pre-Major Academic Advising Center (PMAA) provides support to undergraduate students before their admission to an academic major. The assignment to PMAA either reflects the student's own choice or a designation by the University because (1) the student does not meet all of the preparation and/or academic requirements for a particular major, or (2) the academic major to which the student seeks entrance has reached its maximum enrollment for the academic year and/or semester. Students are encouraged to take prerequisite courses in their intended major and/or in a particular major program because of implied interests. Academic advisers assist students in interpreting University and department policies and requirements, and with selecting appropriate courses. Advisers make referrals and discuss vocational and career interests with undeclared students. Together, the adviser and student develop an educational plan of sound strategies for success.
Students should understand that certain academic programs require prerequisites for further study. If prerequisites are not taken during the period of study as an undeclared major, then University attendance is prolonged. A student may transfer into a program only if all of the following are met:
1. there is a vacancy in the desired program;
2. prerequisite courses are completed and/or the required GPA is attained; and
3. an approved "Change of Major" form has been filed in the Office of the Registrar.
The PMAA program is located in 262 Lawrence Center.
Learning Assistance and Resource Center
The Learning Assistance and Resource Center (LARC) provides academic support services that help students become independent, active learners and achieve academic success. The LARC offers tutoring services in most general education courses, such as mathematics, writing, natural sciences, social sciences, foreign languages, and introductory business. Tutoring sessions are 50 minutes long and are held by appointment only. Interested students register on a first-come, first-served basis and are assigned tutors depending on availability.
The LARC also offers supplemental instruction (SI) in several general education and high-risk courses. Additionally, the LARC holds refresher workshops in preparation for the Pre-Professional Skills Test (PPST) for prospective education majors. Workshops, including the Academic Success Workshop, demonstrating the application of learning strategies to the course content and seminars that influence learning, such as stress management, test anxiety reduction, assertiveness, concentration, and motivation, are available to student groups upon request. The LARC Web site, www.wcupa.edu/ussss/larc, includes information on available services, a list of courses being tutored, and links to helpful resources.
The LARC provides opportunities for paid practical experience for undergraduate and graduate students and requires participation in a comprehensive training program for new tutors, including seminars, workshops, on-line training, individualized projects, and peer observation. Tutors employed by the LARC acquire the knowledge and experience necessary to meet the requirements for certification by the College Reading and Learning Association.
The LARC is open Monday - Thursday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information call 610-436-2535, e-mail larc@wcupa.edu, or visit 223 Lawrence Center.
?The learning communities program offers students a unique first-semester experience. First-year students are selected to participate based upon major and/or an area of special interest. Students in the program live on one wing of Sanderson Hall and learn together in two specially selected learning communities courses. Learning Communities are open to students in any major. Each Learning Community focuses on a theme of interest to students, such as “leadership and community action.” Some Learning Communities are designed especially for students who commute or who are undecided about their major. New programs are being developed every year. The program offers students opportunities to participate in special trips and events, to develop close relationships with other students, and to gain greater familiarity with University faculty and staff. Learning communities help ease the transition from high school to college by creating a small group experience within the larger university. For more information contact Dr. Victoria Tischio at 610-436-2898 or 610-436-3416.
Services for Students with Disabilities
The Office of Services for Students with Disabilities (OSSD) offers services for students with physical and learning disabilities. The OSSD is designed to assist students in making a successful transition to the University. The office takes a proactive stance that encourages students to understand their needs and strengths in order to best advocate for themselves.
West Chester University recognizes that some students with disabilities want minimal assistance while others require the full range of support and services. The staff of the OSSD supports students as they become more self-reliant by emphasizing their knowledge and communication skills and the understanding of their rights and obligations under the laws. To facilitate successful transition a comprehensive assessment of needs is recommended through this office.
The OSSD provides advocacy with faculty for classroom accommodations under the requirements of Section 504 and the Americans with Disabilities Act. Recent, appropriate, and comprehensive documentation provided by licensed professionals must accompany requests for accommodations.
The OSSD coordinates provision of direct services for students with disabilities through support staff in the research and technical areas of the University. The office also advocates in the readmission procedure, with the offices of Financial Aid and the Registrar, and supplement advising services to the extent that the information or assistance is disability related and necessary to promote student access.
The OSSD is located within the Academic Programs and Services Division and coordinates services with other units within the division, such as the Learning Assistance and Resource Center and the pre-major academic advising program, as well as other University offices including the Writing Center and the Office of Residence Life and Housing. Liaison with governmental agencies and private practitioners for provision of services is also available through the OSSD. In order to ensure continuity of services, students should pursue such actions prior to enrollment. Students needing financial support for personal services or interpreters should register with the appropriate agency at least six months in advance of matriculation. The policies and procedures used by the OSSD are contained in the West Chester University Handbook on Disabilities, which is available in the OSSD.
Office of Services for Students with Disabilities
Room 223 Lawrence Center
West Chester University
West Chester, PA 19383
610-436-2564
Services Provided for Students with Disabilities
ADA Classroom Modifications Appeals Procedure
Notification of Classroom Modifications
For a student with a documented disability requesting classroom modifications, the Office of Services for Students with Disabilities (OSSD) will issue a copy of a letter of modifications for the student to present to the faculty member of the course. This modifications letter will inform the faculty member of the student's specific academic needs. It is the responsibility of the student to present the letter of modifications to the faculty member. Students with disabilities are held to the same academic standards as all other students. Faculty members are not required to provide modifications prior to or retroactive from the date a modifications letter is presented. Faculty members should contact the OSSD if they have questions about the modifications outlined.
Appeals Regarding Classroom Modifications
The University provides for an appeals process regarding classroom modifications. Any and all efforts will be made with the understanding that a timely resolution is in the best interest of all parties involved. While an appeal is under review, the student is expected to attend classes and do assignments to the best of his/her ability and faculty members are expected to provide reasonable classroom modifications to the best of their abilities. While an appeal is under review, the student and the faculty members of his/her courses are expected to make good faith efforts toward reasonable classroom modifications and engage in the educational process. An appeal reviewed under this policy does not alter or interfere with the student's right to file a complaint of discrimination on the basis of a disability with the University's Office of Social Equity or to pursue a formal complaint with the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission or the U.S. Department of Education, Office of Civil Rights.
A. If a student has concerns with the determination of modifications by the OSSD, the student and the director of OSSD should first meet in order to resolve the matter. If they do not reach agreement, the student may initiate a formal appeal by contacting in writing the associate provost (for undergraduate students) or the graduate dean (for graduate students) (see section C).
B. If a faculty member has concerns about the application of the modifications to his or her course and/or a student feels the modifications are not being adequately implemented, the student and the professor should meet in order to resolve the problem. If these efforts are unsuccessful, either the faculty member or the student may request informal resolution through OSSD.
1. The student and/or the faculty member informs both OSSD and the chair of the department of the course within two work days following the meeting between the faculty member and the student about unresolved concerns for modifications in the course.
2. Within one week after being informed of the concerns, OSSD will coordinate a meeting of the student, faculty member, and/or chair in an attempt to achieve a resolution by meeting with the student and/or faculty member. During this meeting, with the consent of the student, OSSD may further advise the faculty member of the student's individual needs and the appropriateness of any recommended modifications.
C. If resolution is not accomplished after informal meetings between OSSD, the student, faculty member, and chair, a formal appeal may be started. Either the faculty member or the student may initiate the formal appeal by contacting OSSD in writing; as appropriate, the associate provost or the graduate dean will then be notified. The formal appeal will proceed as follows:
1. Within the two weeks following the initiation of the formal appeal, a Classroom Modifications Review Panel will meet. If the student involved is an undergraduate, the associate provost will convene the panel. If the student is a graduate student, the graduate dean will convene the panel. The panel will consist of a dean of a school or college, a faculty member, and a student, each of whom will be from outside the department than the one in which the problem arose and selected from respective pools of individuals who have received training in ADA law and procedures; the dean shall serve as panel chair. Panel members will be informed in writing by the associate provost or dean of Graduate Studies at least a week in advance of the date, time, and place that the panel will be convened.
2. At the proceedings of the panel, the representative of OSSD will present to the panel relevant information about the nature of the student's disability and appropriate modifications. Because this information is confidential, the stu-dent's consent to the disclosure of the information must be obtained beforehand. In order to protect matters which are confidential, the panel may, upon its own motion or upon the request of any involved party, hear statements in private without the other parties being present.
If the situation involves a challenge to the OSSD director's denial of a requested modification, the OSSD shall present information and documentation showing why such modification is inappropriate.
If the dispute is related to the application of a modification in a particular course, the faculty member shall then present to the panel his or her concerns about the modification and shall have the opportunity to present any information or documentation which the faculty member believes is relevant. The panel may request that the chairperson of the academic department in which the dispute arose, or other faculty members who teach the same course, present any concerns that they may have regarding how the modifications might create a fundamental alteration in the nature of the course.
The student shall have the opportunity, but shall not be required, to make a statement to the panel and to present any information or documentation which the student believes is relevant.
The Office of Social Equity will be available to the panel for consultation on an "as needed" basis.
3. It shall be the function of the panel to make a recommendation to the provost concerning the appropriateness of the requested modifications and/or a revision of the modifications. The panel shall deliberate immediately following the meeting and shall render its recommendation by majority vote. The decision and any dissenting opinions of the panel shall be sent in writing to the provost within three work days by the panel chair.
4. The provost shall review the recommendation of the panel and render a final decision on the matter in writing to the student, the faculty member, and the OSSD director within one week after receiving the panel's recommendation.
A number of departments offer the opportunity for internships, field experiences, or practicums in which students may earn credit while gaining professional experience in their field of interest. Students need to consult with their department and review the various department listings in this catalog.
Three University-wide internship opportunities are open to students from any major: The Harrisburg Internship Semester (THIS) is a full-semester, 15-credit experience in Pennsylvania state government. It is open to any junior or senior who has a minimum GPA of 3.5. A stipend is involved. (See Department of Political Science, HBI 400, 401, 402.) The Washington Center Internships are 15-credit experiences with the U.S. Congress, Executive Branch, interest groups, and lobbies. The Pennsylvania House of Representatives Legislative Fellowship Program, open to all junior/senior students with a minimum GPA of 3.5, involves committee staff assignments in policy development and a stipend. All three programs are administered by the Department of Political Science; contact the chair at 610-436-2743.
West Chester University's summer program, among the oldest university-sponsored summer programs in the United States, has one of the largest enrollments in the State System of Higher Education. More than 600 courses, both graduate and undergraduate, are offered, including workshops, seminars, and internships, as well as the typical semester classes. Offerings are generally available in every department and in interdisciplinary areas.
Students from any college or university, as well as nontraditional students, may take courses for enjoyment, personal growth, or degree credit. The summer program runs for 13 weeks (two five-week sessions and a three-week post session), and a student can earn up to 12 credits during the summer sessions.
Summer session booklets containing the course schedules may be obtained from the Office of the Registrar (undergraduate), the Office of Graduate Studies and Extended Education (graduate), and academic departments or the University Web site (www.wcupa.edu). For more information contact the Office of the Registrar at 610-436-3541 or the Office of Graduate Studies and Extended Education at 610-436-2943.
Nondegree is an academic term for "not formally accepted in a degree program." Students often begin their college careers by taking classes nondegree, for personal and professional growth.
Nondegree students take the same courses as everyone else and earn the same college credit. Students may earn a total of 18 credits (usually about six courses) as a nondegree student. After earning 18 credits, students need to apply for admission if they wish to continue. College graduates can take as many courses as they want.
Nondegree students can take a maximum of nine credits each semester.
Students may be considered for nondegree status if they
The University recognizes and awards credit for life-learning experience that can accelerate a student's degree. The Office for Adult Studies advises students on how to earn college credit for their learning experience through three available options:
Students may use any combination of these options and progress at their own pace.
Nondegree students may take advantage of all services offered by the University including:
For additional information, contact the Office of Graduate Studies and Extended Education at 610-436-1009 or e-mail adultstudy@wcupa.edu.
Post-Baccalaureate Teacher Certification
Individuals who are interested in post-baccalaureate teacher certification, at either the undergraduate or graduate level, should contact the Office of Graduate Studies and Extended Education for admissions materials. Applicants will be referred to the appropriate faculty adviser(s) for completion of the Approved Program of Studies form.
Under the provisions of Title 38, West Chester University is an accredited university for the education of veterans. The University cooperates with the Veterans Administration to see that honorably separated or discharged veterans receive every consideration consistent with either degree or nondegree admission standards.
All veterans, certain dependents of disabled or deceased veterans, and war orphans who wish to obtain educational benefits under the appropriate public laws must register with the office overseeing veterans affairs at initial registration. Veterans must renew their registration with this office at the beginning of each subsequent semester and each summer session. The Veterans Administration requires students who are veterans to schedule at least 12 semester hours per semester in order to receive full benefits under the GI Bill.
Certification for Veterans Administration benefits is administered by the Office of Financial Aid, Room 138, Elsie O. Bull Center.
Army Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) is available through a cross-enrollment agreement with Widener University. Classes are generally conducted on the campus of Widener University. Students receive from 1.0 to 3.0 free elective credit hours per course (maximum 12 credit hours) towards their baccalaureate programs.
West Chester students also may enroll in the Air Force Reserve Officers' Training Program (AFROTC) through an agreement with Saint Joseph's University. All aerospace studies courses are held on the Saint Joseph's University campus, and these courses earn transfer credit at WCU.
The University, with the approval of the Council of Trustees, permits West Chester University students enrolled in the Armed Services Reserve Officer Candidate Program (ROC) to receive six semester hours of baccalaureate credit upon successful completion and certification of ROC military requirements. These credits are classified as free elective transfer credits. Depending on the status of the student's program at the time of ROC credit transfer, these credits will be counted toward, or in excess of, the 120 credits required for a baccalaureate degree.
ROC programs are contingent on successful completion of a military requirement during vacation and the awarding of a college degree before being granted the service commission.
West Chester's graduate programs offer study opportunities leading to the master of education, master of arts, master of science in administration, master of science in nursing, master of business administration, master of public health, master of science, master of social work, and master of music degrees. West Chester schedules its graduate courses in the late afternoon and evening during the fall and spring semesters. It is possible to pursue full-time graduate study during the academic year and during summer sessions.
Administration
M.S.A. (Concentrations: Human Resource Management, Individualized, Leadership for Women, Long-Term Care, Nonprofit Administration, Public Administration, Regional Planning, Sport and Athletic Administration, and Training and Development)
Certificates in Administration; Gerentology; Human Resource Management; Leadership for Women; and Nonprofit Administration
Anthropology/Sociology
M.S.A. (Concentration: Long-Term Care)
Certificate in Geronotology
Biology
M.S. Biology (thesis and nonthesis)
Business
M.B.A. (Executive and General Business)
Communication Studies
M.A. Communication Studies
Communicative Disorders
M.A. Communicative Disorders
Computer Science
M.S. Computer Science
Certificate in Computer Science
Certificate in Computer Security
Certificate in Information Systems
Certificate in Web Technology
Counseling and Educational Psychology
M.Ed. Elementary School Counseling
M.Ed. Secondary School Counseling
M.S. Higher Education/Post-Secondary Counseling/Student Affairs
Certificate in Professional Counseling Licensure Preparation
Specialist I Certificate in Counseling (Elementary or Secondary)
Criminal Justice
M.S. Criminal Justice
Early Childhood and Special Education
M.Ed. Early Childhood Education
M.Ed. Special Education
Certification in Early Childhood Education
Certification in Special Education
Certificate in Autism
Elementary Education
M.Ed. Elementary Education (Concentration: Applied Studies in Teaching and Learning)
Certification in Elementary Education
Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study
English
M.A. English (thesis and nonthesis; concentrations in Creative Writing; Literature; and Writing, Teaching, and Criticism)
Foreign Languages
M.A. French
M.A. Spanish
M.Ed. French
M.Ed. Spanish
Geography and Planning
M.A. Geography
M.S.A. (Concentration: Regional Planning)
Certificate in Geographic Technology
Geology and Astronomy
M.A. Geoscience (Concentration: Earth Sciences)
Health
M.Ed. School Health
M.P.H. Public Health
Certification in Health
Certificate in Emergency Preparedness
Certificate in Health Care Administration
Certificate in Integrative Health
History
M.A. History
M.Ed. History
Holocaust and Genocide Studies
M.A. Holocaust and Genocide Studies
Certificate in Holocaust and Genocide Studies
Kinesiology
M.S. Physical Education
(Concentrations: General Physical Education, Exercise and Sport Physiology)
M.S.A. (Concentration: Sport and Athletic Administration)
Leadership for Women
M.S.A. (Concentration: Leadership for Women)
Certificate in Leadership for Women
Literacy
M.Ed. Reading
Certification as a Reading Specialist
Certificate in Literacy
Mathematics
M.A. Mathematics (Concentrations: Mathematics, Mathematics Education)
M.S. Applied Statistics
Certification in Mathematics
Certificate in Applied Statistics
Music
M.A. Music History
M.M. Accompanying
M.M. Music Education
M.M. Music Performance
M.M. Music Theory/Composition
M.M. Piano Pedagogy
Certification in Music Education
Certificate in Kodaly Methodology
Certificate in Music Education
Certificate in Music Technology
Certificate in Orff-Schulwerk
Certificate in Piano Pedagogy
Certificate in 21st Century Music
Nursing
M.S.N.
Certification in School Nursing
Certificate in Nursing Education
Certificate in Parish Nursing
Philosophy
M.A. Philosophy (concentration: Applied Ethics)
Certificate in Business Ethics
Certificate in Healthcare Ethics
Political Science
M.S.A. (Concentration: Public Administration)
Professional and Secondary Education
M.Ed. Secondary Education
Certification in Secondary Education
Certificate in Teaching and Learning with Technology
Psychology
M.A. Clinical Psychology
M.A. General Psychology
M.A. Industrial/Organizational Psychology
Certificate in Clinical Mental Health
Public Administration
M.S.A. (Concentration: Public Administration)
Social Work
M.S.W. Social Work
Special Education
(See Early Childhood and Special Education)
Teaching English as a Second Language
M.A. Teaching English as a Second Language
Certificate in Teaching English as a Second Language
Women's Studies
Certificate in Leadership for Women
The following departments and interdisciplinary areas offer graduate courses, but no graduate degree: Anthropology and Sociology, Art, Linguistics, Theatre Arts, and Women's Studies.
College Literature is an international, quarterly journal of scholarly criticism dedicated to the needs of college/university teachers; it provides access to innovative ways of studying and teaching new bodies of literature and experiencing old literatures in new ways. Kostas Myrsiades of the Department of English serves as editor.
Journal of the Hellenic Diaspora is a semiannual, international scholarly review focusing on the Greek experience of the 19th and 20th centuries, published by Pella Publishing Co. of New York. Kostas Myrsiades, Department of English, serves as co-editor.
This nationally renowned literary fine press, located in 509 Francis Harvey Green Library, gives students hands-on experience in the publishing field through traditional book production. Professor Michael Peich, Department of English, serves as the director.
The West Chester University Poetry Center hosts the annual West Chester University Poetry Conference (the largest annual poetry gathering in America), sponsors the University's Poet-in-Residence program, collaborates on poetry and music concerts with the College of Visual and Performing Arts, and presents poetry readings throughout the year. The center also oversees national and regional poetry awards under the auspices of the Iris N. Spencer Poetry Awards. The center is located in the WCU Poetry House, and Professor Michael Peich, Department of English, is the director.