Fort Valley State University

A popular master’s degree track for teachers is now making a comeback on Fort Valley State University’s campus. This fall, the university’s College of Education will offer a master’s degree in Middle Grades Education. The new program has been endorsed by the Georgia Board of Regents.

The new degree track will be the third offered by FVSU’s College of Education. Currently, the university offers bachelor’s degrees in agriculture education and middle grades education. Students who successfully complete the master’s program will receive a T-5 level certification in teaching, which means they will earn higher base salary.

“We just got word last week that the advanced middle grades program could begin,” said Dr. Eleanor Sikes, FVSU’s interim chair of middle grades education. “Currently, we have a waiting list of more than 20 students. Our department is contacting students to see if they’re still interested.” According to Sikes, the new degree track will consist of 36 hours: 21 hours in pedagogy, 15 hours in content, including a capstone project— conducting research and writing a paper in article format for possible publication.

Three years ago, all undergraduate and graduate-level programs in FVSU’s College of Education were deactivated by the BOR and the PSC. The university could no longer accept any new students after spring 2005. Currently-enrolled students had until fall 2006 to finish.

In 2005, the BOR appointed an external review team to evaluate FVSU’s education programs. The university hired Dr. Judy Carter, from Benedict College, as a consultant to lay the groundwork to establish accredited programs in teaching. She was named dean of FVSU’s College of Education in January 2006.

Four other programs are currently under review by the PSC. Upon approval, classes will begin this fall. For more information or to register, contact Sikes at (478) 825-6970.