Education Programs at Mercyhurst
Teach. Anyone. Anywhere.
For decades, Mercyhurst University’s Department of Education has prepared passionate, forward-thinking educators ready to inspire young minds in classrooms across the globe. Our students don’t just learn how to teach—they become role models, advocates, and leaders. Through a foundation rooted in the humanities, arts, and sciences, and guided by a deep understanding of human connection, Mercyhurst graduates enter the profession equipped to meet the challenges of today’s diverse educational landscape. With expert faculty mentoring you every step of the way, you’ll be career-ready from day one—confident, compassionate, and committed to making a lasting difference.
Cultivate lifelong learners at the high school level by earning your master’s in Secondary Education from Mercyhurst. With a focus on pedagogy and practice, this graduate degree program provides an excellent way to develop and hone hands-on learning skills.
Transform the lives of students with disabilities with a master’s in Special Education and Applied Disability Studies. Backed by some of the nation’s leading special education curriculum, students develop the critical thinking and analytical skills needed in today’s classrooms.
Improve teaching practices (and salaries!) with Mercyhurst’s Teaching Excellence master’s program. Core courses focus on evidence-based pedagogy, professional development, and educational scholarship to prepare graduates for both classrooms and careers.
Pursue a passion for leadership with the expedited, customizable curriculum in our Principal Leadership program. Designed for working K-12 educators, the program positions graduates to achieve the Pennsylvania Department of Education Principal Certification
Community Partners
- Autism Support Initiative
- Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) Initiative
- Compass Academy
- Mercyhurst Early Learning Innovation Academy (MELIA)
- The Mercyhurst Early Learning Innovation Academy is an after-school academy for rural, economically disadvantaged students. Our Education students plan and conduct lessons that cover progressive and intentional arts, wellness, and academically rich activities.
- Apply Today
- Robert Benjamin Wiley Community Charter School
- St. Gregory Parish School
- Early Childhood Education Professional Development Organization (ECEPDO)
- Booker T. Washington Learning Laboratories
Phillip J. Belfiore, Ph.D.
Department Chair and Professor of Education,
The School of Social and Behavioral Sciences
Office: Hirt 300B
Meet the Faculty
Education
Maria Garase, Ph.D.
Dean, The School of Social & Behavioral Sciences; Associate Professor, Criminology & Criminal Justice
Phillip Belfiore, Ph.D.
Department Chair, Education; Program Director; Graduate Special Education, Professor
Amy Bauschard, M.S.
Instructor of Early Childhood Education, Director, Mercyhurst Early Learning Innovation Academy
