Program focus
Bachelor's degree-completion: liberal arts and early childhood development
By Allen Carden and Carol Gossett
The School of Education offers bachelor's degree-completion in liberal arts and early childhood development.
The concept of degree-completion has been used at FPU since the late 1980's. It involves accelerated, rigorous academic programs for working adults who have completed at least 60 transferable semester units and who study together in cohorts of no more than 24 students. The cohorts remain together for all courses, which are taken one evening per week for, in the case of these majors, 18 months.
Degree-completion programs are offered in Fresno, Visalia, Bakersfield, Lemoore and Hanford. Well-qualified faculty guide students and stress practical application within a Christian, liberal arts framework. Over 1,600 DC graduates are having an impact on their world and experiencing personal fulfillment and professional advancement. Many would not have been able to obtain a bachelor's degree in traditional daytime academic programs because of professional and/or family responsibilities.
The liberal arts program offers the opportunity to prepare as an elementary school teacher. This broadly based degree is also open to those who may choose another field, but want a wide range of
liberal arts skills and perspectives. The early childhood development program has heard good news from its first graduating cohorts in May and December 2007. Here are excerpts of emails to faculty:
"I have just accepted an early childhood special ed. teaching position through Madera COE!! I'm so excited as this position is marrying my two loves...preschoolers and special ed! So, thanks for all your guidance and support...I look forward to putting all my newfound knowledge to use! I brag about our school EVERY chance I get!" —Nicole Reichard, CD2 North Fresno
"At FPU the students are people not just another number and the staff strives to help each and every student reach their full potential. My degree in early childhood development helped me to achieve my newly acquired dream job as a program director of the Porterville College Child Development Programs! Thanks again!" —Karen Ball, CD1 Visalia
"Fresno Pacific University has helped boost my confidence and knowledge in order to acquire my new job. The course work in early childhood ed. provided me with the academics needed to learn
new skills. I am thankful for the support and excellent teaching from the wonderful instructors at FPU.' —Jeralyn Lasalde, CD3 Visalia
These are only a few of many of our students who have achieved promotions and new positions as a result of their bachelor's degree. It is a thrill to hear about the successes of our students.
Allen Carden is liberal arts program director, degree completion director and faculty.
Carol Gossett is early childhood development program director and faculty.
