For Immediate Release
[Bethany, OK] - Southern Nazarene University (SNU) is excited to offer a Bachelor of Arts in Education (BAE) degree program. The BAE program is a partnership between SNU's School of Education and the School of Professional Studies. It combines their academic strengths and support systems, employing proven Teacher Education and Professional Studies models. It utilizes the Oklahoma alternative teacher certification pathway with the required bachelor’s degree and aligns with InTASC model core teaching standards.
The state of public education in Oklahoma continues to be in crisis. Experienced public school teachers leave for private or charter options, to teach in other states, or pursue other professions. In 2022, the Oklahoma State Department of Education reported almost 3,700 new emergency teacher certifications and nearly 1,300 petitions for emergency certification renewals. In the same year, Oklahoma increased its use of adjunct instructors, who don't need a bachelor's degree, by more than double.
SNU is in a unique position to help with Oklahoma's teaching crisis. Maintaining strong relationships with public education, SNU has a network of over 600 educators in Oklahoma and surrounding states. Furthermore, SNU's mission aligns with producing better educators and educational experiences for all. In Oklahoma and other states, schools have been forced to hire teachers who are not fully prepared, experienced, or supported, making these elements important.
The BAE program will equip paraprofessionals and other potential teachers with the necessary degree, knowledge, and skills to meet the needs of their classrooms. Teachers need to feel they are doing more than merely surviving their classrooms. "Our graduates finish feeling well-equipped to succeed in the classroom and help their students be empowered," says program Co-Director Dr. Anne Ghost Bear.
The BAE program will empower teachers to concentrate on professional development and, in turn, support student learning. The program helps with the teaching shortage in Oklahoma and the nation by preparing and supporting people studying education. It addresses the lack of teachers by assisting individuals in pursuing a degree in education. The program supports those preparing to become teachers in Oklahoma and across the country.
The BAE program will also prepare students for a graduate degree in education or another field. Combining real-life experience with an exceptional education program, the degree program serves as a well-rounded academic vehicle.
Students can attend classes in person once a week at either the Bethany or Tulsa campuses or study fully online. The BAE program consists of 36 credit hours and offers one 5-week course at a time. This accelerated course format means students can earn their bachelor's degree in as little as 18 months.
At SNU, adult learners can earn up to 39 college credit hours through Prior Learning Credits and Enhanced Advanced Standing. These avenues consider life experiences and previously earned certifications and turn them into free college credit, making it possible to earn a degree even faster. Additionally, teachers may qualify for public loan forgiveness, making earning a degree more affordable.
The BAE program will have three start dates a year, the first of which will be in September this year. Upcoming start dates are September 4th for in-person classes at the Bethany and Tulsa campuses and September 10th Online. Prospective students can visit the BAE program page, explore the program with its co-directors, or apply now using SNU's quick application process.
Southern Nazarene University is a private Christian university located in Bethany, Oklahoma. Committed to a values-driven education, SNU offers students an environment where they can develop academically, spiritually, and socially. With a history of academic excellence, SNU continues to prepare students to become impactful leaders through its rigorous programs and close-knit community. For more information, please contact pgsadmissions@mail.snu.edu.