Graduate Degree Requirements

Master of Science in Healthcare Administration

Advance your career and enhance your professional knowledge with King’s College Master of Science in Healthcare Administration program. The program is designed to provide students with the professional knowledge and management skills necessary to be effective and socially responsible leaders in regional, national, and global health services systems. The program
consists of 12 classes plus a 1 credit Capstone final project.

HCA 500 Introduction to Health Services Systems - 3 credits
HCA 501 Health Policy - 3 credits
HCA 502 Human Resources Management - 3 credits
HCA 504 Healthcare Economics - 3 credits
HCA 507 Healthcare Financial Management - 3 credits
HCA 511 Quantitative Business Methods for Healthcare - 3 credits
HCA 531 Understanding Organizational Ethics - 3 credits
HCA 570 Essentials of Population Health Management - 3 credits
HCA 571 Health Marketing and Promotion - 3 credits
HCA 576 Healthcare Operations Management - 3 credits
HCA 595 Leadership and Executive Skills for Healthcare Managers - 3 credits
HCA 596 Leadership for Quality Management in Healthcare - 3 credits
HCA 598 Capstone Project - 1 credit

Total Credits 37

Graduate Certificate Program in Executive Leadership for Healthcare Professionals

The Graduate Executive Leadership Certificate for Healthcare Professionals is designed to provide physicians and other healthcare professionals with basic business and management knowledge and skills in the field of health care. The Certificate Program consists of four graduate level courses (12 credits) and is offered online through King’s College Distance Learning Platform (Moodle).

HCA 502 Human Resources Management - 3 credits
HCA 507 Healthcare Financial Management - 3 credits
HCA 571 Health Marketing and Promotion - 3 credits
HCA 595 Leadership and Executive Skills for Healthcare Managers - 3 credits

Total Credits 12

A student enrolled in the Executive Leadership Certificate for Healthcare Professionals program from the William G. McGowan School of Business will learn leadership skills and problem solving
techniques.

Students who complete the graduate certificate program and then choose to enter the master’s program may transfer the certificate courses (12 credits) into the 37-credit Master of Science (M.S.) in Healthcare Administration Program at King’s College.

CURRICULUM AND NUTRITION PHILOSOPHIES

The King’s College Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics (MSND) Future Graduate program is conveniently designed to be completed in two years on a part-time basis. Courses in the MSND program are shorter than a traditional 16-week semester, with each one broken into two seven-week mini-semesters. Completing the program requires 39-42 credit hours, depending on student goals.  

The optional thesis schedule is shown below. Students should begin their thesis by the Summer of their first year to complete their research on time.  

New students are admitted in the Fall. Visit the King’s College Academic Calendar to find key dates and deadlines for each accelerated semester. However, it may be necessary to work outside the Academic Calendar during RWPE supervised experiential learning (SEL) depending on site placement, facility hours, and preceptor availability. 

COURSE REQUIREMENTS

12 courses – 36 credits 

Grand total graduate credits earned with optional thesis and with traditional RWPE schedule = 42.0 

Grand total graduate credits earned without optional thesis with traditional RWPE schedule = 39.0 

• ND 601 Physiological Basis of Nutrition I - 3 credits 
• ND 602 - Physiological Basis of Nutrition II - 3 credits 
• ND 603 – Advanced Nutritional Biochemistry, Macronutrients & Alcohol - 3 credits 
• ND 604– Advanced Nutritional Biochemistry, Micronutrients (Vitamins and Minerals) - 3 credits 
• ND 605 – Nutrition through the Lifecycle - 3 credits 
• ND 606 – Advanced Sports Nutrition and Energy Metabolism, w/lab - 3 credits 
• ND 607 – Adv Leadership/Management for Allied Health Careers - 3 credits 
• ND 608 – Principles of Foods and Management, w/lab - 3 credits 
• ND 609 – Medical Nutrition Therapy - 3 credits 
• ND 610 – Nutrition Counseling - 3 credits 
• ND 611 – Food Systems and Health, w/lab - 3 credits 
• ND 612 – Nutrition Research Methods – 3 credits 

NUTRITION PHILOSOPHIES

Throughout our curriculum, we teach and model the Total Diet Approach, which is the notion that the overall dietary pattern of foods eaten is the most important focus. This means that everything a person eats “averages out” over time, and the combination of all food and drink is what gives people energy and nutrients to meet their individual needs.

This also means that all foods can fit in a balanced dietary pattern. There are no good foods or bad foods: just foods. Foods have no moral value.

Body acceptance and inclusivity are important, as well as being aware of implicit weight bias. We need to respect different body sizes and shapes and understand that body weight has no moral value and is not the only health status indicator.

CURRICULUM AND NUTRITION PHILOSOPHIES

The King’s College Master of Science in Nutrition Science (MSNS) program is conveniently designed to be completed in two years on a part-time basis. Courses in the MSNS program are shorter than a traditional 16-week semester, with each course broken into two seven-week mini-semesters. Completing the program requires 36-39 credit hours, depending on student goals.  

We offer an optional thesis. Students should begin their thesis by the Summer of their first year to complete their research on time.  

New students are admitted in the Fall. Visit the King’s College Academic Calendar to find key dates and deadlines for each accelerated semester.  

COURSE REQUIREMENTS

12 courses – 36 credits  

• NUTR 501 - Physiological Basis for Nutrition I - 3 credits 

• NUTR 502 - Physiological Basis for Nutrition II - 3 credits 
• NUTR 511 - Biochemistry of Nutrition I - 3 credits 
• NUTR 512 - Biochemistry of Nutrition II - 3 credits 
• NUTR 520 - Nutrition Through the Life Cycle - 3 credits 
• NUTR 530 - Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism - 3 credits 

• NUTR 535 Adv Leadership and Management in Allied Healthcare Careers - 3 credits 
• NUTR 550 - Food Principles and Preparation - 3 credits  
• NUTR 560 - Nutrition and Chronic Disease - 3 credits 
• NUTR 570 - Nutrition Counseling - 3 credits 
• NUTR 580 - Food Systems and Health - 3 credits 

• NUTR 590 - Nutritional Research Trends and Methods - 3 credits 

NUTRITION PHILOSOPHIES

Throughout our curriculum, we teach and model the Total Diet Approach, which is the notion that the overall dietary pattern of foods eaten is the most important focus. This means that everything a person eats “averages out” over time, and the combination of all food and drink is what gives people energy and nutrients to meet their individual needs.

This also means that all foods can fit in a balanced dietary pattern. There are no good foods or bad foods: just foods. Foods have no moral value.

Body acceptance and inclusivity are important, as well as being aware of implicit weight bias. We need to respect different body sizes and shapes and understand that body weight has no moral value and is not the only health status indicator.

To be eligible for graduation, students must meet the following criteria:

• Completion of all MSNS coursework
• A minimum of a B grade in all coursework
• No more than two C grades in all coursework
• Completion of reflective ePortfolio kept throughout the program

Graduation Requirements

Faculty advisers will assist students in planning and implementing the plan of study for the OTD program; however, it is ultimately the responsibility of students to understand and complete this program. Graduation from the entry-level OTD program is based on student fulfillment of satisfactory grade point average, satisfactory professional conduct, successful completion of fieldwork, and successful completion of the 2-part Doctoral Capstone. Specific graduation requirements include:

1. Successful completion of all didactic and level I fieldwork course credits before progression to level II fieldwork.
2. Successful completion of all coursework and full-time level II fieldwork (24 weeks), and preparatory activities (as defined by ACOTE standard D.1.3) before progression to the 14-week Doctoral Capstone Experience.

Successful completion of the 2-part Doctoral Capstone (capstone project and capstone experience).
Students are allowed a maximum of 2 total attempts to complete Level II Fieldwork. Students have a maximum time frame of 4 years from date of matriculation to complete the didactic, fieldwork, and
doctoral experiential components of the program.

Course Sequence: Entry, Progression, and Completion Criteria

A. Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) Program Pre-Professional Phase

1. King’s Undergraduate Phase Pre-Professional Phase Entry Criteria
   Students are accepted into the Pre-Professional Phase of the 3+3 OTD Program by being accepted at
   King’s College into the Exercise Science- Occupational Therapy Track with a minor in Neuroscience
   and Psychology. There are no other requirements.

Progression and Completion Criteria

1. Pre-Professional Phase (Undergraduate year 1-3 requirements)
   1. A. Students must meet with their academic advisor at least once per semester. It is the responsibility of the student to complete this meeting.
   2. At the completion of undergraduate Year 3, a student’s cumulative GPA will be calculated and reviewed.
      • Students must receive a grade of C- or better in any OT or prerequisite courses required or will need to repeat the course.
      • Students with a cumulative GPA below 2.8 will receive a letter that they WILL NOT be able to progress into the Professional Phase of the OT program until they have a cumulative GPA of at least a 2.8. Students will also be counseled by their academic advisor as to other majors or options if the GPA, or pre-requisite course(s), do not meet the progression criteria

B. OTD Program Professional Phase

Professional Phase OTD Year 1 Entry Criteria

1. Post Baccalaureate Professional Phase Entry Criteria Students will be admitted directly into
   the professional phase after acceptance into the OTD program. Completion of a baccalaureate degree and all prerequisites prior to entering King’s College Professional Phase of the OTD is required.
2. 3+3 OTD Students must have completed the pre-professional phase and all prerequisites with
   a C- or better and a cumulative GPA of at least 2.8 to begin the Professional Phase.
3. All students must be in good Professional Behaviors standing to continue into this phase.

Progression and Completion Criteria

1. Students must meet with their academic advisor at least once per semester. It is the responsibility of the student to complete this meeting.
2. All students entering the 1st year of the professional Phase must have an overall GPA of 2.8. At
   the completion of the FALL semester of OTD Year 1 a student’s cumulative GPA will be
   calculated and reviewed.
   1. Students must receive a grade of C- or better in any OT or pre-req course or be required to repeat and grade replace the course. No more than 2 OT courses can be grade replaced for the entirety of the OT program.
   2. Cumulative GPA below 2.9 will receive a probation letter and be counseled by their academic advisor. No more than 2 probations for the entirety of the OT program will be allowed.
   3. Students must be in good Professional Behaviors standing to progress to the Advanced Professional Phase.
   4. A student with a cumulative GPA below 2.9 be placed on probation. No more than 2 probations in total will be allowed for the entirety of the OT program.
      
      1. Students on probation will need to attain a 2.9 GPA within the next semester or they will be dismissed for the OT program.
      2. If the probationary semester results in a GPA increase to 2.9 or better, the student will be removed from probationary status.
      3. Two consecutive probations will not be allowed, and the student will be dismissed from the OT Program.
      4. After a second probationary semester, the student must attain a 2.9 overall GPA or be dismissed from the OT program.
   5. If dismissal or voluntary change of major occurs, the student is encouraged to remain at King’s College and choose one of the following options:
      1. Undergraduate King’s Students: Remain in the Exercise Science major and complete the four-year bachelor’s degree and pursue employment or graduate studies.
      2. All Students: Apply to the MSAT Program (two-year graduate component). Students must meet all MSAT Program entrance criteria for admission. www.kings.edu/applyMSAT
      3. Select another major with the assistance of their academic advisor, the Office of Academic Advisement, and the Office of Career Planning and Placement.
3. At the completion of the SPRING semester of OTD Year 1 a student’s cumulative GPA will be calculated and reviewed.
   1. Students must receive a grade of C- or better in any OT or pre req course or be required to repeat and grade replace the course. No more than 2 OT courses can be grade replaced for the entirety of the OT program.
   2. Cumulative GPA below 3.0 will receive a probation letter and be counseled by their academic advisor. No more than 2 probations for the entirety of the OT program will be allowed
   3. Students must be in good Professional Behavior standing to progress to the Advanced Professional Phase.
   4. A student with a cumulative GPA below 3.0 be placed on Probation. No more than 2 probations in total will be allowed for the entirety of the OT program.
      1. Students on probation will need to attain a 3.0 GPA within the next semester or they will be dismissed from the OT program.
      2. If the probationary semester results in a GPA increase to 3.0 or better, the student will be removed from probationary status.
      3. Two consecutive probations will not be allowed.
      4. After a second probationary semester, the student must attain a 3.0 overall GPA or be dismissed from the OT program.
   5. If dismissal or voluntary change of major occurs, the student is encouraged to remain at King’s College and choose one of the following options:
      1. Undergraduate King’s Students: Complete the four-year bachelor’s degree and pursue employment or graduate studies.
      2. All Students: Apply to the MSAT Program (two-year graduate component). Students must meet all MSAT Program entrance criteria for admission. www.kings.edu/applyMSAT
      3. Select another major with the assistance of their academic advisor, the Office of Academic Advisement, and the Office of Career Planning and Placement.

C. OTD Program Advanced Professional Phase

1. Advanced Professional Phase OTD Year 2 and 3 Entry Criteria (All Students)
   1. Students must have completed the professional phase with a C- or better in all
      courses and a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 to begin the Advanced Professional
      Phase.
   2. Students must be in good Professional Behavior standing to continue into this phase.
2. Progression and Completion Criteria
   1. Students must meet with their academic advisor at least once per semester. It is the responsibility of the student to complete this meeting.
   2. All students entering years 2 and 3 of the Advanced Professional Phase must have an overall GPA of 3.0.
   3. At the completion of OTD Year 2 and every semester thereafter a student’s cumulative
      GPA will be calculated and reviewed.
      1. Students must receive a grade of C- or better in any OT or pre req course or be required to repeat and grade replace the course. No more than 2 OT courses can be grade replaced for the entirety of the OT program.
      2. Cumulative GPA below 3.0 will receive a probation letter and be counseled by their academic advisor. No more than 2 probations for the entirety of the OT program will be allowed.
      3. Students must be in good Professional Behavior standing
      4. A student with a cumulative GPA and below 3.0 be placed on Probation. No more than 2 probations in total will be allowed for the entirety of the OT program.
         1. Students on probation will need to attain a 3.0 GPA within the next semester or they will be dismissed from the OT program.
         2. If the probationary semester results in a GPA increase to 3.0 or better, the student will be removed from probationary status.
         3. Two consecutive probations will not be allowed.
         4. After a second probationary semester, the student must attain a 3.0 overall GPA or be dismissed from the OT program.
      5. If dismissal or voluntary change of major occurs, the student is encouraged to remain at King’s College and choose one of the following options:
         1. All Students: Apply to the MSAT Program (two-year graduate component). Students must meet all MSAT Program entrance criteria for admission. www.kings.edu/applyMSAT
         2. Select another major with the assistance of their academic advisor, the Office of Academic Advisement, and the Office of Career Planning and Placement.
   4. Students must complete Level II fieldwork successfully before moving on to the 14-week
      Doctoral Experience. Level II fieldwork must be successfully completed with no more than 2 total attempts.
   5. Students must successfully complete the 2-part Doctoral Capstone in order to graduate with the OTD degree. No more than 2 attempts at the capstone experience will be allowed.

A student who has not completed ALL these requirements will not be able to graduate and will not be allowed to remain in the OT Program

Academia, Leadership, and Diversity Track

OT 680 Advanced Advocacy and Leadership - 3 credits
OT 690 Teaching & Learning - 3 credits
OT 785 Doctoral Capstone Proposal and Preparation - 3 credits
OT 681 Program Evaluation and Development - 3 credits
OT 786 Capstone: Implementation - 2 credits
OT 684 Adv Leadership & Mentoring Program - 1 credit
OT 683 Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Cultural Dynamics - 3 credits
OT 675 Advanced Clinical Scholarship, Dissemination, and Outcomes - 3 credits
OT 787 Doctoral Dissemination and Portfolio - 2 credits
OT 685 Leadership Program Lead - 3 credits

Total Credits 26

Clinical Leadership Track

OT 680 Advanced Advocacy and Leadership - 3 credits
OT 785 Doctoral Capstone Proposal and Preparation - 3 credits
OT 681 Program Evaluation and Development - 3 credits
OT 786 Capstone: Implement - 2 credits
OT 675 Advanced Clinical Scholarship, Dissemination, and Outcomes - 3 credits
OT 787 Doctoral Dissemination and Portfolio - 2 credits
OT 684 Adv Leadership & Mentoring Program - 1 credit
OT 69X Advanced Practice Elective (Choose 3) - 9 credits

Total Credits 26

MASTER OF SCIENCE IN PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT STUDIES (M.S.P.A.S.)

Students may enter the Professional phase of the PA Program as graduate students into the two-year master’s (M.S.P.A.S.) degree program. The term “professional phase” refers specifically to the full time 24 month training program during which the student trains to be a physician assistant. The professional phase consists of twelve months of didactic instruction followed by twelve months of clinical instruction. Upon completion of this phase, students will graduate with a Master’s Degree in Physician Assistant Studies and are eligible to take the Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam (PANCE) through the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA).  The term “PA Program” refers only to the professional phase of the training at King’s College.

The Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA) has granted Accreditation - Continued status to the King's College Physician Assistant Program sponsored by King's College. Accreditation - Continued is an accreditation status granted when a currently accredited program is in compliance with the ARC-PA Standards.

Accreditation remains in effect until the program closes or withdraws from the accreditation process or until accreditation is withdrawn for failure to comply with the Standards. The approximate date for the next validation review of the program will be March 2027. The review date is contingent upon continued compliance with the Accreditation Standards and ARC-PA policy. 

The program’s accreditation history can be viewed on the ARC-PA website here.

APPLICATION TO THE TWO-YEAR MASTER’S PROGRAM IN PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT STUDIES

MASTER OF SCIENCE IN PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT STUDIES (M.S.P.A.S.)

Seat availability is determined by the number of undergraduate BS/MS students who matriculate successfully into the professional program. If seats are available, students may apply into the Professional Phase of the PA Program as graduate students into the two-year master’s (M.S.P.A.S.) degree program when the application process is published as opened to all graduate students. 

Enrollment through the Centralized Application System for Physician Assistants (CASPA) may be opened based on the number of seats available. If CASPA enrollment is opened, this will be posted on the PA Program Website. When opened, the deadline for final CASPA application and verification to King’s College is October 1st. Applicants are strongly encouraged to apply as early as possible to allow for CASPA verification. If enrollment through CASPA is not opened, but there is graduate seat availability, notification of an open graduate application process by completion of the King's application will be posted on the PA Program Website.

For information on CASPA contact:
CASPA
P.O. Box 70958
Chevy Chase, MD 20813-0958
CASPA Website

KING’S ALUMNI

Applicants who have received a degree from King’s College are not required to apply through CASPA. They will, however, be considered in the same applicant pool with all graduate applicants. If there is seat availability, alumni can call the PA Program at 570-208-8086 to request a King’s Application. These applicants will be required to meet the same minimum criteria as the CASPA/graduate applicants . These applicants do not have to pay the CASPA application fee when applying to the King’s Physician Assistant Program. The deadline for these applicants is October 1st. Applications must be emailed to bonnielanzendorfer@kings.edu

A notice of seat availability and an application process will be posted on the Physician Assistant Program’s website. Applicants can call the PA Admissions Department at 570-208-8086 for further information and seat availability. 

Update: The class is full for the class entering in the fall of 2023.

The Program will open CASPA and King's Alumni applications for admission into the class entering in the fall of 2024. The application process will open on April 27, 2023 until October 1, 2023. 

GRADUATE REQUIREMENTS

Candidates must have a bachelor’s degree or higher degree from a regionally accredited institution or be completing a bachelor’s degree or higher degree by the end of the spring semester prior to the start of the program in August.

Candidates must complete all of the following prerequisite science courses, preferably with labs by the end of the spring semester prior to the start of the program in August: anatomy and physiology (8 credits), general biology (8 credits), general chemistry (8 credits), organic chemistry (4 credits), genetics (3 credits), and microbiology (4 credits). If the applicant’s college did not offer labs with these courses or offered 3 credit science courses including a lab, we will accept these courses. No grade less than a “C-” will be accepted for any prerequisite science courses. We will not accept any required science courses that have been taken online. Online science course exceptions will be made for classes taken during the COVID-19 pandemic until the spring of 2022. 

Any required science course with a grade less than C- must be repeated; however, both grades will be incorporated into the calculations for the overall science and cumulative G.P.A.s.

Courses will be accepted from any 2- or 4-year accredited US college or university.

Candidates cannot have more than two outstanding prerequisite science courses in the spring semester prior to the start of the program in August. Students must maintain a minimum overall and science G.P.A. of 3.2. G.P.A.S will not be rounded. 

Satisfactory grades or pass grades will not be accepted for any pre-requisite course including labs. 

Candidates that complete any courses after submitting their application to CASPA/King's application must forward an official transcript directly to the King’s College Department of Physician Assistant Studies as soon as they receive their spring semester grades.

Candidates cannot have any outstanding courses in the summer prior to the start of the pro-gram in August.

We will consider candidates who possess degrees granted 10 or more years ago, however, we encourage these candidates to retake prerequisite courses, particularly in Anatomy and Physiology and Microbiology.

Candidates must have a cumulative G.P.A. of 3.2 and a cumulative science G.P.A. of 3.2. G.P.A.s will not be rounded.

Candidates must complete 500 clinical hours of health care experience by the CASPA application deadline. The hours may be voluntary or paid. Of these 500 hours, a minimum of 300 must be Category I while the remainder can be Category II. These hours must also include 8 hours of physician assistant shadowing. Please read this document fully describing clinical hour requirements.

2 letters of reference. It is suggested that one letter of recommendation is from a professional that the applicant has worked with clinically and one from someone academic, preferably someone that the applicant has had for multiple science classes.

A personal statement discussing desire to be a Physician Assistant.

We do not require GRE, MCAT, or USMLE scores.

Candidates must have all coursework that was completed at an academic institution outside the U.S. evaluated by WES (World Education Services Inc.) and submitted to the Program by the application deadline of October 1st.

Candidates whose native language is not English must pass the TOEFL exam or complete a bachelor’s degree in a U.S. College or University. The passing score on the TOEFL is listed below. Official TOEFL scores must be submitted by the CASPA application deadline.

*Minimum TOEFL Scores needed to apply: Internet-based Test minimum of 108/120 TOEFL test information may be obtained from ETS, Princeton, New Jersey 08540, or by calling (609) 771-7100.

Once an application is completed, the Graduate Enrollement Counselor and Data Coordinator will review and evaluate each applicant’s academic transcripts, work experience record, and any other prereq-uisites/requirements.

Candidates selected by the PA Admissions Committee will receive an invitation for an interview.

Upon completion of all interviews, the committee, at their sole discretion, recommends to the Program Director the applicants selected for admission to the professional phase.

GRADUATE APPLICANT SELECTION PROCESS

Graduate applications are scored based on G.P.A. (cumulative G.P.A. and overall science G.P.A.). A science degree is awarded extra points in the scoring process. Additional points are also awarded for advanced degrees and graduate course credits . The quality and quantity of the health care experience/shadowing hours are also scored. Your personal statement, references and other experiences (work experience, community service, extra-curricular activities) included on your application are also scored. Points may also be deducted from scoring for disciplinary actions, revoked privileges in previous career, dismissal from another PA or medical program, repeating courses mulitple times etc.  A personal interview is required for admission. Selected candidates will receive an invitation for an interview. Selected candidates will be scored during their interview. The King’s College Department of Physician Assistant Studies will decide and notify selected candidates within 3 weeks of their interview. This interview and selection process will continue until the class is filled or until July 20th, whichever comes first. Meeting minimum prerequisites neither guarantees the applicant an interview nor admission. Once accepted, graduate applicants will be required to submit a non-refundable depoist  to secure their seat. This deposit will then be applied to their tution. 

EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING CREDITS AND THE PROFESSIONAL PHASE OF THE PA PROGRAM

The professional program does not allow for exemption from courses, clinical skills, laboratories, or clinical education regardless of prior experience, degree or credential. Students must matriculate through all aspects of the program and successfully complete all program requirements in order to graduate.

•   There are written technical standards that all PA students must meet in order to complete professional phase training. Please review these standards before making application to the program.

KING’S COLLEGE DEPARTMENT OF PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT STUDIES TECHNICAL STANDARDS

 A candidate for the Physician Assistant Program must have abilities and skills in five categories: observation, communication, motor, intellectual and behavioral/social. Reasonable accommodation for persons with documented disabilities will be considered on an individual basis, but a candidate must be able to perform in an independent manner. Coordination of services is handled through the College's Academic Skills Center. The following skills are required with or without accommodation.

Observation: Candidates must have sufficient capacity to observe in the lecture hall, the laboratory, and the clinical setting. Sensory skills adequate to perform a physical examination are required. Functional vision, hearing and tactile sensation must be adequate to observe a patient's condition and to elicit information through procedures regularly required in a physical examination, such as inspection, auscultation and palpation.

Communications: Candidates must be able to communicate effectively in both academic and health care settings. Candidates must show evidence of effective written and verbal communication skills. Candidates must be able to communicate effectively with patients and their families in order to elicit information, and to describe changes in mood, activity, and posture, and to perceive nonverbal communications.  Candidates must be able to process and communicate information on the patient’s status with accuracy in a timely manner to physician supervisors and to other members of the health care team.

Motor: The ability to participate in basic diagnostic and therapeutic maneuvers and procedures (e.g., palpation, auscultation) is required. Candidates must have sufficient motor function to execute movements required to provide care to patients. Candidates must be able to negotiate patient care environments and must be able to move between settings, such as clinic, classroom building, and hospital. Physical stamina sufficient to complete the rigorous course of didactic and clinical study is required. Long periods of sitting, standing, or moving are required in classroom, laboratory, and clinical experiences.

Intellectual: Candidates must be able to measure, calculate, reason, analyze and synthesize. Problem-solving, one of the critical skills demanded of Physician Assistants, requires all of these intellectual abilities. In addition, candidates should be able to comprehend three-dimensional relationships and understand the spatial relationships of structures. Candidates must be able to read and understand medical literature. In order to complete the Physician Assistant degree, candidates must be able to demonstrate mastery of these skills and the ability to use them together in a timely fashion in medical problem-solving and patient care.

Behavioral and social attributes: Candidates must possess the emotional health and stability required for full utilization of their intellectual abilities. They must possess the ability to exercise good judgment, as well as the ability to promptly complete all academic and patient care responsibilities. The development of mature, sensitive and effective relationships with patients and other members of the health care team is essential. Flexibility, compassion, integrity, motivation, interpersonal skills, and concern for others are all required along with the ability to function in the face of the uncertainties inherent to clinical practice. Candidates must be able to function effectively under stress and have the ability to accept constructive criticism and handle difficult interpersonal relationships during training.

Disabilities: Students with disabilities should contact the Academic Skills Center at King’s College to help with accommodations that they may need.  Disability Services are available to members of the King’s College Community who require assistance in areas including, but not limited to, learning disabilities, mobility, orthopedic, hearing, vision, or speech impairments. Individuals with temporary disabilities are also eligible for services.  Reasonable accommodations will be offered to those individuals with documentation of their disability from the appropriate certifying professional. Documentation must include the following: (1) qualifications of the evaluator; (2) recency of documentation; (3) appropriate clinical documentation to describe functional limitations of life activities; and (4) evidence to establish a rationale supporting the need for accommodations. Students need to meet the technical standards of the King’s College PA Program in order to remain in the program.

Candidates for selection to the PA Program will be required to verify that they understand and meet these technical standards, or that they believe that, with certain accommodation(s), they can meet the standards.

Disability Services will evaluate a student who states that he/she could meet the program’s technical standards with accommodation(s) and confirm that the stated condition qualifies as a disability under applicable laws.

If a student states that he/she can meet the technical standards with accommodation(s), then the College will determine whether it agrees that the student can meet the technical standards with reasonable accommodation(s). This will include a review of whether the accommodation(s) requested are reasonable, taking into account whether accommodation(s) would jeopardize clinician/patient safety, or the educational process of the student or the College, including all coursework, clinical experiences deemed essential to graduation.

The King’s College Department of Physician Assistant Studies complies with federal, state, and university guidelines regarding applicants with disabilities.

IMMUNIZATION POLICY FOR THE DEPARTMENT OF PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT STUDIES DURING THE PROFESSIONAL PHASE*

The King’s College Department of Physician Assistant Studies requires that all students maintain immunizations as recommended by the CDC for healthcare providers (Recommended Vaccines for Adults | CDC) and any state specific mandates.  Therefore, all King’s College PA students must have proof of these immunizations for the professional phase of the program.

• Though not an immunization, students must have a tuberculin skin test or an IGRA (Interferon-Gamma Release Assays) to enter the PA Program. Additional tuberculosis testing may also be required by clinical sites or if there is a known exposure or ongoing transmission. Positive results will require proper evaluation, and documentation must be submitted as instructed by the PA Program.
• The meningococcal (meningitis) vaccine is required by The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania for students living in college-owned and operated residence halls. Therefore, students must either provide written documentation of meningitis immunization or sign a waiver to indicate they have been informed about this disease and vaccine and have chosen not to be immunized if they are living on campus. This form is provided by student health. Otherwise, the meningococcal vaccines are especially recommended for lab workers who work with Neisseria Meningitidis and  those listed on the CDC website link provided above. 

Facilities and hospitals often require additional immunizations and titers which students must obtain prior to starting rotations at those sites. Information regarding these additional requirements will be given to students prior to starting rotations.

 Failure to comply with the Immunization Policy for the Department of Physician Assistant Studies or any additional immunizations and titers for clinical rotations will result in the inability to enter, continue with or complete the program.

The following link will allow for easier access to the CDC recommendations for immunizations for health care workers: 

https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/adults/rec-vac/index.html#accordion-2-card

All costs incurred in complying with this policy are the responsibility of the student.

 *Policy subject to change at any time to comply with ARC-PA standards, King’s College, the PA Program and Hospital policies. The King’s College Department of PA Studies will make every attempt to notify its students of these changes in a timely manner.

OTHER PA PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS

King’s PA students must submit a yearly medical release form signed by their health care provider clearing them to participate in the King’s College PA Program. Students must also maintain current health insurance while enrolled in the Program.

BACKGROUND CHECKS

For the Professional Phase of the Program, students are required to have the following annual background checks:  A fingerprinted Federal Criminal History Record Check (FCHR), a Pennsylvania State Police Criminal Record Check (PATCH), a Pennsylvania Child Abuse History Clearance, and a comprehensive background check performed by Universal Background Screening.  All costs incurred in complying with these checks are the responsibility of the student. 

 A student who does not have a clear background check may be denied access to hospitals and/or clinical rotations.  This may affect his or her ability to complete the program.  A background check which is not clear may also affect one’s ability to sit for the PANCE, obtain professional licenses, or institutional privileges.  In an attempt to schedule clinical rotations, any information found on these checks will be disclosed to clinical facilities and preceptors.  Background checks which reveal a felony offense may result in denial of admission and/or dismissal from the program.

KING'S COLLEGE PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT DRUG AND ALCOHOL POLICY

The King's College Department of Physician Assistant Studies follows the policies outlined in the King's College Student Handbook. The use of drugs or alcohol prior to or during any activities pertaining to the program is strictly prohibited. If there is reasonable suspicion of impairment, the student will be removed from that activity/class/rotation immediately.

Prior to the start of the professional phase of the program, students will be required to undergo an annual 10-panel urine drug screen performed at a licensed laboratory. An institution, clinical site or the PA Program may require additional and or unnancounced drug and/or alcohol testing. Referral for counseling and treatment may be required by the Program. Students will sign a consent form with a waiver of liability releasing this information to the Program and clinical sites. The student is responsible for all associated costs. If the student refuses, they may be unable to complete the requirements of the program. Specific disciplinary actions and/or dismissals will be handled on an individual basis.

EMPLOYMENT DURING THE PROFESSIONAL PHASE OF THE PA PROGRAM

Due to the rigorous nature of the PA program during both the didactic and the clinical phases of training, it is inadvisable for students to hold a job during their professional training. Employment demands will not justify an excused absence from any academic or clinical requirements of the Program nor will any special accommodations be made.

CLINICAL ROTATIONS

Students are not required to provide or solicit their own clinical sites or preceptors.  Students may, however, arrange  some of their own rotations.  This must be discussed with the Clinical Faculty before arrangements are  made and approval is not automatically guaranteed.

Policies subject to change at any time in order to comply with ARC-PA standards, King’s College, the PA Program and Hospital policies. The King’s College Department of PA Studies will make every attempt to notify its students of these changes in a timely manner. The King’s College Department of Physician Assistant Studies reserves the right to alter and or modify policies and curriculum with notification to the affected students.

*Questions can be addressed at the PA office by calling (570) 208-5853 or contact the Admissions Coordinator at PAadmissions@kings.edu

• COMM 501: Survey of Strategic Communications (3)
• COMM 502: Executive Communications (3)
• COMM 503: Media Relations in the Digital Ecosystem (3)
• COMM 504: Strategic Communications (3)
• COMM 505: Global Perspectives in Communications (3)
• COMM 506: Emerging Media (3)
• COMM 507: Crisis Communications (3)
• COMM 508: Advanced Topics (3)
• COMM 509: Strategic Communications Internship (6)
• COMM 510: Strategic Communications Capstone (3)

MASTER’S DEGREES

Take your career to the next level with a graduate degree from King’s College. King’s graduate education programs offer competitive tuition and personalized attention. Choose from three graduate degrees that will advance your career as a PK-12 educator with a Master's in Education degree (M.Ed.).

• Master of Education – Reading (33 credits, online or on campus)
• Master of Education – Curriculum and Instruction (30 credits)
• Master of Education – Curriculum and Instruction, English as a Second Language (30 credits)
• Master of Education – Curriculum and Instruction, STEM (30 credits)
• Master of Education – Curriculum and Instruction, Excellence in Teaching (30 credits)
• Master of Education – Curriculum and Instruction, School Leadership (30 credits)
• Master of Education – Curriculum and Instruction, Instructional Leadership (30 credits)
• Master of Education – Curriculum and Instruction, Specialized Education (30 credits)
• Master of Education – Special Education (30 credits)
• Master of Education – Special Education, Autism Spectrum Disorder (42 credits)

CERTIFICATE PROGRAMS

Our Graduate Education certificate programs offer preparation coursework for specializations or administrative leadership positions. Earn your certification between 12-24 months with flexible online or on campus formats.

• English as a Second Language Specialist (15 credits / On Campus)
• Reading Specialist (24 credits / Online or On Campus)
• Principal Certification (18 credits / Online)

PENNSYLVANIA ENDORSEMENT COURSEWORK PROGRAMS

Earn your endorsement online or on campus to improve your knowledge and skills in emerging areas of education. These endorsement certifications can be added to an existing Level I or Level II certificate.

• STEM Education (12 credits)
• Instructional Coaching (12 credits)
• Autism Spectrum Disorder (12 credits)

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT / ACT 48 COURSES

King’s College offers professional development courses and Act 48 credits in classes taught by professionals with integrated experience and expertise in their field. You can receive three (3) graduate credits per course, which are transferable to most, but not all, master's degree programs. Learn more about our offerings here.

Contact:
Sunny Minelli Weiland, Ph.D.
570-208-5900 x5361
E-mail: sunnyweiland@kings.edu

Graduate courses may be taken to fulfill the requirements for the degree program or they may be taken individually for personal or professional enrichment. Courses are offered during the evening in the fall and spring, in traditional 15-week semesters and certain accelerated sessions. Summer courses are offered in a variety of accelerated formats, both day and evening. Information about graduate course offerings is available from the King’s College Graduate Division Office at (570) 208-5991 and on the King’s College Graduate Division website ( www.kings.edu/admissions/graduate/).

1. Prerequisite: A Bachelor of Science or Arts

2. Required Core Course Work (15 Credits)

• Educ 580 - Curriculum Theory and Design (3 credits)
• Educ 582 - Current Issues and Trends in Education (3 credits)
• Educ 584 - Interactive Learning (3 credits)
• Educ 586 - Inclusionary Classroom Practices (3 credits)
• Educ 590 - Practical Research for Educators (3 credits)

3. Concentration Area Course Work (15 credits)

PK-4 Elementary Education

• Educ 510 - Developmental Nature of Reading (3 credits)
• Educ 625 - Instructional Methods, Technologies and their Development in the Elementary Classroom (3 credits)
• Educ 630 - Elementary Mathematics and Science Instruction (3 credits)
• Educ 521 - Alternative Assessment (3 credits)
• Educ 635 - PK-4 Master’s Capstone Project (3 credits; prerequisite: Educ 590)

English as a Second Language

• Educ 600 - Basics of English Grammar, First and Second Language Acquisition and Instructional Strategies for Second Language Acquisition (3 credits)
• Educ 605 - Instructional Materials, Technologies and their Development (3 credits)
• Educ 610 - Assessment and Evaluation of Student, Program, Instruction, Family Involvement and Support Services (3 credits)
• Educ 615 - Cultural and Linguistic Diversities, Approaches and Collaborative Methods for Developing Cultural Awareness (3 credits)
• Educ 620 - ESL Master’s Capstone Project (3 credits; prerequisite: Educ 590)

STEM Concentration

• EDUC 672 - STEM Design (3 credits)
• EDUC 674 - STEM Methods (3 credits)
• EDUC 676 - STEM Assessments (3 credits)
• EDUC 678 - STEM Practicum (3 credits)
• EDUC 670 - Science Master’s Capstone Project (3 credits)

Excellence in Teaching

• Educ 535 - Excellence in Teaching Master’s Capstone Project (3 credits; prerequisite: Educ 590)
  
  Electives (choose four courses; 12 credits)
• Educ 530 - Standards Aligned System (SAS)
• Educ 532 - Assessment Educ 536 - Literacy in the Content Area
• Educ 537 - Classroom Set-up and Management
• Educ 538 - Differentiating Instruction
• Educ 539 - Exceptional Learners: Gifted and Special Education
• Educ 540 - School Law for Today’s Teacher
• Educ 541 - Developing Collaboration with Parents
• Educ 542 - ELL Learners
• Educ 5xx - Other courses, as offered.

Contact:
Jill Yurko, Ed.D., Program Director
(570) 208-5900, ext. 5685
E-mail: jillyurko@kings.edu

Graduate courses may be taken to fulfill the requirements for the degree program or they may be taken individually for personal or professional enrichment. Courses are offered during the evening in the fall and spring, in traditional 15-week semesters and certain accelerated sessions. Summer courses are offered in a variety of accelerated formats, both day and evening. Information about graduate course offerings is available from the King's College Graduate Division Office at (570) 208-5991 and on the King's College Graduate Division website ( www.kings.edu/admissions/graduate).

1. Prerequisite: A Bachelor of Science or Arts and Teaching Certification

Teaching certification in elementary education, secondary education, or a K-12 specialty area (e.g., art, music, special education, etc.) is required to enter the master's of education program if the applicant intends to seek reading certification. A photocopy of the certification must be submitted with the other application materials.

2. Required Course Work (30 Credits)

• Educ 505 -  ELL Adaptations (3 credits)
• Educ 510 - Developmental Nature of Reading (3 credits)
• Educ 515 - Reading in the Content Area (3 credits)
• Educ 517 - The Organization, Administration & Supervision of Reading Programs (3 credits)
• Educ 520 - The Writing Process K-12 (3 credits)
• Educ 523 - Children's & Adolescent Literature in Reading Instruction (3 credits)
• Educ 516 - Reading Disabilities: Diagnosis & Prescription (3 credits)
• Educ 550 - Reading Clinic Practicum (3 credits; prerequisite: Educ 516)
• Educ 575 - Literacy Master’s Capstone Project (3 credits; prerequisite: Educ 590)
• Educ 590 - Practical Research for Educators (3 credits)

3. Elective Course Work (3 credits)

• Educ 503 - Educational Statistics (3 credits)
• Educ 518 - Computer Applications for Reading Programs (3 credits)
• Educ 519 - Reading Instruction for the Exceptional Child (3 credits)
• Educ 521 - Alternative Assessment (3 credits)
• Educ 522 - Curriculum Development K-12 (3 credits)
• Educ 524 - Seminar in Topics of Reading (3 credits)
• Educ 525 - Independent Study (3 credits)
• Educ 527 - Special Topics in Education (3 credits)
• Educ 605 - ESL Instructional Materials, Technologies and Their Development (3 credits)

Contact:
Jill Yurko, Ed.D., Program Director
570) 208-5900 ext. 5685
E-mail: jillyurko@kings.edu

Graduate courses may be taken to fulfill the requirements for the degree program or they may be taken individually for personal or professional enrichment. Courses are offered during the evening in the fall and spring, in traditional 15-week semesters and certain accelerated weekend sessions. Summer courses are offered in a variety of accelerated formats, both day and evening. Information about graduate course offerings is available from the King's College Graduate Division Office at (570) 208-5991 and on the King's College Graduate Division website (www.kings.edu/admissions/graduate).

Admission Requirements

1. Prerequisite: A Bachelor of Science or Arts and Teaching Certification. Teaching certification in special education (PK-8, 7-12, or K-12).  A photocopy of the teaching certification must be submitted with the other application materials.

2. Required CORE Course Work (15 Credits)

• Educ 516 - Reading Disabilities: Diagnosis and Prescription (3 credits)
• Educ 584 - Interactive Learning (3 credits)
• Educ 586 - Inclusionary Classroom Practices (3 credits)
• Educ 590 - Practical Research for Educators (3 credits)
• Educ 770 - Special Education Master’s Capstone Project (3 credits; prerequisite: Educ 590)

3. Special Education Focus (15 credits)

• Educ 720 - Special Education School Law and Regulations (3 credits)
• Educ 730 - Early Intervention Infant/Preschool (3 credits)
• Educ 740 - Universal Design for Learning and Response to Intervention (3 credits)
• Educ 750 - School-wide Behavior Support and Behavior Management (3 credits)
• Educ 760 - Transition Systems from School to Adult (3 credits)

Contact:
Jill Yurko, Ed.D., Program Director
(570) 208-5900, ext. 5685
E-mail: jillyurko@kings.edu

The 12-credit (four course) graduate endorsement program in Instructional Coaching is designed for individuals who:

• are working in public, private or parochial schools within the Commonwealth
• are seeking Act 48 credits or courses for personal and professional enrichment

Course Schedules

Courses are offered on main campus during the fall, spring and summer semesters.  Information about graduate course offerings is available from the Graduate Division Office at (570) 208-5991 and on the King’s College Graduate Division website (www.kings.edu/admissions/graduate/).

The Instructional Coaching is a Pennsylvania Department of Education Endorsement. This endorsement builds off courses in the Reading Specialist’s Certification Program, although participants do not have to have a reading specialist certification to enroll in the program.  The Endorsement itself is four courses with a 45 hour field practicum included. Although Instructional Coaches are not widely utilized in local school districts, the program itself provides support for the new Pennsylvania teacher evaluations and builds teacher leadership.

Listed below you will find the course descriptions for the four courses required for the Instructional Coaching Endorsement.

Educ 501 - Foundations of Instructional Coaching (3 credits)

Designed for educators at all levels developing the foundational knowledge of Instructional Coaching and focusing on specific roles for Instructional Coaches.

Educ 517 - Literacy Leadership (also in Reading Program) (3 credits)

Examines the effectiveness of managing reading and general instructional programs through analysis of organizational frameworks and leadership styles of actual settings.

Educ 521 - Assessment Strategies in the Classroom (also in Reading Program) (3 credits)

Examines A variety of assessment tools available for use in the classroom and how those assessment strategies may impact instruction

Educ 525 - Instructional Coaching Practicum

Knowledge will be put into practice in an authentic clinic setting with a 45 hour field practicum.

Contact:
Jill Yurko, Ed.D.
(570) 208-5900, ext. 5685
E-mail: jillyurko@kings.edu

The 12-credit (four course) graduate endorsement program in Autism is designed for individuals who:

• are working in public, private or parochial schools within the Commonwealth
• are seeking Act 48 credits or courses for personal and professional enrichment

Course Schedules

Courses are offered on main campus during the fall, spring and summer semesters.  Information about graduate course offerings is available from the Graduate Division Office at (570) 208-5991 and on the King’s College Graduate Division website (www.kings.edu/admissions/graduate/).  Courses requires an additional 20 hours per course field experience.

1 in every 88 children has been diagnosed with autism.  King's College has developed a program for educators to enhance their skills to meet the needs of this growing population.  Participants will learn techniques for implementation in the regular classroom environment, self-contained learning environments, and the community.  The King's College Graduate Program offers four courses in an accelerated weekend format the moves educators progressively through a tiered level of learning with an additional eighty (80) hours of field experience.  The tiers begin with the Etiology of Autism Spectrum Disorder(ASD), and continue with ASD assessment, ASD instructional and intervention methodology and practice, and community collaboration for school-aged and adults.

Listed below you will find the course descriptions for the four courses required for the Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Endorsement Certificate.

Educ 700 – ASD: Etiology (3 credits)

This course is an introduction and overview of characteristics and learning traits of autism spectrum disorders (ASD). The course is an examination of the common manifestations of ASD including the psychological, physiological, behavioral, social, communication, and educational characteristics of individuals who have been identified on the spectrum as having Autism, Pervasive Developmental disorder, Rhett's disorder, Asperger’s syndrome and Childhood Disintegrative Disorder. The classification system, assessment strategies / issues, approaches, and interventions related to individuals with ASD will be explored.  Focus will be on causes, diagnosis and intervention. The theoretical, prevalence, and scientific hypothesis related to the etiology of ASD will be researched and explored.

Educ 705 – ASD:  Instruction & Intervention (3 credits)

This course is designed to focus upon the various methodologies and intervention strategies that are currently being used to instruct students with ASD. The positive features and the limitations of each research-based method will be examined for integrity and validity.  In addition to methodology, classroom management, intervention strategies, accommodations, and adaptations that are successful in the general education setting will be introduced. These accommodations are used to ensure to provide for least restrictive environments in education and the community settings along with the use of augmentative and alternative communication. 

Educ 710 – ASD: Assessment(3 credits)

This course will create a framework for understanding and implementing effective interventions for children and adolescents with ASD in consideration of their cultural values and beliefs.  The role of the families and collaborative, interdisciplinary models of service delivery will be examined.   Effective research-based assessment and interventions will be reviewed utilizing current research regarding neurodevelopmental issues in autism.  This course requires a 20 hour practicum consisting of a field experience in a school and community based agency setting providing direct clinical, instructional, and social interaction with individuals with ASD. These experiences will take place in regular and specialized settings in order to ensure the student an opportunity to observe and participate in the assessment and instructional levels.

Educ 715 – ASD: Community Collaboration  (3 credits)

This course is designed to promote the collaboration process between, schools, family, and community. Schools can no longer rely on just the educational system to deliver the services needed to the diverse student populations in our schools. Advocacy reaches out not only to the educational community but also to officials involved with law enforcement, health care (including first responders) and individual groups that connect with the family needs. The course will also emphasis the importance of the transition process in the schools in identifying  instructional programs to meet the unique individual needs of each student for school to work partnerships. Legal mandates and requirements will be examined.

DEFINITION OF AN ENDORSEMENT CERTIFICATE

Program Endorsement documents knowledge in new and emerging areas where formal certification does not exist. The Program Endorsement is intended to improve a teacher’s skills in dealing with complex classroom settings. These endorsements are added to existing Level I or Level II Certificates but are not required to perform service in these areas. Requires 80 hours of field experience.

Contact:
Sunny Minelli Weiland, Ph.D.
570-208-5900 x5361
E-mail: sunnyweiland@kings.edu

The 15-credit (five course) ESL Program Specialist graduate certificate program is designed for individuals who:

• are working as ESL teachers in public schools within the Commonwealth;
• are working in public schools within the Commonwealth;
• are seeking Act 48 credits or courses for personal and professional enrichment;
• are graduate students seeking elective credits to transfer into their degree programs.

This program is approved by The Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE). Upon successful completion, students will receive certification as a Pennsylvania Program Specialist, English as a Second Language (ESL). Courses are offered on the campus of King's College in Wilkes-Barre through an accelerated weekend format. Each three-credit course runs for two consecutive weekends, with classes held at the following times:

• Saturday, 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m., and
• Sunday, 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.;

Information about graduate course offerings is available from the King's College Graduate Division Office at (570) 208-5991 and on the King's College Graduate Division website ( www.kings.edu/admissions/graduate).

1. Prerequisite: A Bachelor of Science or Arts and Teaching Certification
Teaching certification in elementary education, secondary education, or a K-12 specialty area (e.g., art, music, special education, etc.) is required to enter the ESL certificate program if the applicant intends to seek certification as a Program Specialist, English as a Second Language (ESL). A photocopy of the teaching certification must be submitted with the other application materials.

*ESL Program Specialist Certification applicants whose native language is not English are required to take and pass the ACTFL English Language OPI Test.

2. Required Course Work (15 Credits)

60 hours of field experience required

• Educ 600 - Second Language Acquisition (3 credits)
• Educ 601 - ESL Clinical Field Practicum (3 credits)
• Educ 605 - ESL Instruction: Theory and Practice (3 credits)
• Educ 610 - ESL Assessment: Theory and Practice (3 credits)
• Educ 615 - Dimensions of Culture (3 credits)

Contact:
Sunny Minelli Weiland, Ph.D.
570-208-5900 x5361
E-mail: sunnyweiland@kings.edu

The King’s College STEM Endorsement Program is designed to meet the needs of educators who are seeking to expand their knowledge of STEM practices as well as designing STEM programs K-12.  The faculty for the King’s STEM endorsement includes full-time and part-time instructors who have experience designing and implementing STEM schools, NASA simulations, and engineering programs.

Class Format:

Each course incorporates lecture, discussions, collaborative work, and participant presentations in a face-to-face and blended learning environment.  Each course is to be scheduled for two weekends three weekends apart.  Additionally, final assignments would be due two weeks after the weekend of the course to provide adequate time for online interaction, research, assigned reading, and reflection time.

Field Experience:

A five (5)  hour field experience is required for each course.  This requirement fits into most school district’s contractual “personal day” allotment in the event that travel is warranted to complete the field experience.  Each instructor is responsible to guide participants to relevant experiences for their individual course for the integration of comprehensive and coordinated competencies within the King’s program.   Likewise, instructors are to provide discussion and feedback time within class and online exchanges. Verification of each field experience is required to be documented on the King’s college Field Experience Log and to be accompanied by a narrative reflection which describes the experience and then explains how the experience has enhanced or expanded the course’s competencies’ focus.  Each course offers a different perspective of STEM design and the implementation of theory to practice. 

Listed below you will find the course descriptions for the four courses required for the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) Endorsement Certificate.

Educ 672 STEM Design

By examining the conceptual development of STEM programs and courses, the goal of this course will be to design learning organizations and environments that support collaborative practice for multidisciplinary integration, interdisciplinary, and transdisciplinary experiences and real-world problem-solving.   Global perspectives will be discussed along with a focus on Next Generation Science Standards, PA Core Mathematics Standards, PA Science and Technology Standards.  Emphasis will also be placed on the development of teacher and student leadership in a STEM meta-discipline.

Educ 674 STEM Methods

This course will explore the implementation of differentiated methods/pedagogies for implementation in courses integrating STEM.  Participants will experience model STEM lessons, participate in Problem Based Learning Scenarios, Research components for STEM integration, investigate community resources to advance STEM Education, and create a portfolio of resources, lessons and project-based activities. Emphasis will be on the designing and facilitating lessons implementing a learning cycle model for student-centered inquiry learning for collaborative multidisciplinary, interdisciplinary, and transdisciplinary environments.

Educ 676 STEM Assessment

This course will review the design of formative and summative assessment in regards to the implementation of differentiated instructional methods utilized in effective STEM instruction. Participants will review competency expectations and testing requirements for PA Common Core and Next Generation Science Standards.  Emphasis will be on the development of authentic assessment for individual, group, project-based, and self-assessment in multi- disciplinary, interdisciplinary, and transdisciplinary learning environments.   

Educ 678 STEM Practicum

An experiential real-life problem solving laboratory experience utilizing the engineering laboratory at King’s College.  This course will be a hands-on experience with students learning how to use current technology to create solutions to engineering tasks.  Integral to this course will be developing the mindset of an engineer, problem-solving, working collaboratively in a group, and effective communication of work done in the laboratory. This course should provide students with experiences that can be used as inspiration for creating opportunities for their students to experience STEM and STEM projects in the K-12 classroom.

DEFINITION OF AN ENDORSEMENT CERTIFICATE

Program Endorsement documents knowledge in new and emerging areas where formal certification does not exist. The Program Endorsement is intended to improve a teacher’s skills in dealing with complex classroom settings. These endorsements are added to existing Level I or Level II Certificates but are not required to perform service in these areas. 

Contact:
Denise Reboli, Ph.D, Program Co-Director
(570) 208-5900, ext. 5498
E-mail denisereboli@kings.edu

Sunny Minelli Weiland, Ph.D.
570-208-5900 x5361
E-mail: sunnyweiland@kings.edu

King's College has created the Professional Development Center to give K-12 teachers opportunities for meaningful professional development, with convenient scheduling formats and affordable tuition. PDC classes are three-credit graduate-level courses offered by experienced instructors on the main campus of King's College (unless otherwise noted).

The Professional Development Center is a collaborative effort with the Education Department and the Graduate Division at King's College, and teachers and administrators at schools within the Wyoming Valley. Instructors and course offerings are selected by members of an advisory board of Education Department members.  If you are a K-12 teacher interested in offering a course in the PDC, please send a resume and course description to Dr. Denise Reboli, Chair of the Education Department.Courses taken through the Professional Development Center may not normally be used for degree credit in the King's master's of education program. Courses may be used in transfer for degree credit at other institutions, at the discretion of the individual institution. Act 48 credit is automatically processed by King's for all students who complete graduate courses, including PDC courses.

Information about graduate course offerings is available from the King's College Graduate Division Office at (570) 208-5991, by e-mail at gradprograms@kings.edu and on the King's College Graduate Division home page ( www.kings.edu/admissions/graduate).

The University of Notre Dame - Mendoza College of Business

Dr. Paul Lamore, Associate Professor of Management and MSA Coordinator

King’s College has a collaborative agreement with the University of Notre Dame and the Mendoza College of Business for their Master of Science in Accountancy (MSA) Program.  This program is open to undergraduate accounting majors.  It is a 1 year, full time course of study over the traditional fall and spring semesters (30 credit hours), that incorporates a broad-based curriculum while allowing students to choose from two tracks: Financial Reporting and Assurance Services, or Tax Services.  Students successfully completing the program will also earn the minimum 150 credits necessary to earn a Certified Public Accountant license following successful completion of the CPA exam.

The University of Notre Dame MSA Agreement with King’s College

The University of Notre Dame guarantees a maximum of two seats each academic year for two accounting majors from King’s College to be granted admission into the MSA Program.  To be eligible, King’s College accounting majors must be US citizens, or permanent US residents, and meet the following criteria and submit their completed admissions application for early decision consideration by November 15 of their senior year:

• An overall GPA of 3.4 or above;
• Average Grade of 3.4 or better in all of the program prerequisites taken at the time of application;
• A GMAT score of 620 or above (68^th percentile); and
• A written recommendation of the Dean or department chair

Notre Dame will also give full consideration to all King’s College students who:

• Have completed, or are on track to complete, their undergraduate degree with  a strong record of academic achievement;
• Have  completed, or will complete prior to the planned date for matriculation, all of the currently required accounting prerequisites; and
• Submit a completed application for admissions along with two letters of recommendation, official GMAT scores, and official transcripts.

The Financial Reporting and Assurance Services Track provides depth in the areas of financial reporting and assurance services, as well as finance. This track is ideal for those preparing for a career in public accounting, especially in the audit area. Students interested in corporate finance or in careers with financial institutions will also benefit from this specialization.

The Tax Services Track equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to confront the increasing complexity of tax laws and to meet the growing demand for highly trained tax professionals. This track provides an in-depth study of taxation issues in the context of today’s business environment while improving students’ problem-solving skills. The Tax Services Track is designed to prepare students for a variety of professional opportunities in the taxation area, including careers with public accounting firms, business enterprises, and governmental agencies. As a result of industry input, students choosing the Tax Services Track have the ability to complete 21 credit hours of tax related courses.

The One-Year Master of Science in Accountancy Program

• Has consistently been ranked in the top ten in the nation.
• Ranked nationally as the 4^th “Best Accountancy Program” by Public Accounting Report (2013)
• Ranked #1 in like-sized programs with 16-21 Accounting faculty members
• 100% placement of 2013 graduates in their chosen field
• 83% placement of graduates with Big Four firms
• Open to domestic and international applicants who hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with an accounting concentration.
• The AACSB accredited program satisfies the 150-hour educational requirements adopted by more than 48 states and jurisdictions for certification and licensure as a CPA.
• The program is a one-year, two-semester (30-hour) degree program, which is offered on a full-time, traditional academic year basis.

The following prerequisite coursework is required of all applicants to the program:

Accounting:

• Accounting & Accountancy I (Financial Accounting) – MSB 110
• Accounting & Accountancy II (Managerial Accounting) – MSB 120
• Measurement and Disclosure I (Intermediate Accounting I) – ACCT 301
• Measurement and Disclosure II (Intermediate Accounting II) – ACCT 302
• Strategic Cost Management (Cost Accounting) – ACCT 340
• Audit & Assurance Services – ACCT 410
• Federal Taxation – ACCT 230, ACCT 460

OTHER: (Introductory Level)

• Finance – MSB 220
• Management – MSB 200
• Marketing – MSB 210
• Macroeconomics – CORE 153
• Microeconomics – ECON 112
• Information Technology / Computer Science – CIS 110, ACCT 440
• Statistics – ECON 221

M.S. in  Accountancy Scholarships

Scholarships are awarded by Notre Dame based on academic performance, work and internship experience, honors, performance on standardized tests, leadership potential, letters of recommendation, and each applicant’s personal statement. The personal statement should include as many of the following components as apply:

• Significant life experiences and/or challenges overcome
• Ethnicity/cultural heritage
• Educational attainment of parents and grandparents (i.e., whether you are a first-generation college student)
• Unique background or special talents
• Community service
• Goals and achievements
• How past leadership experiences have prepared you for active involvement in the University of Notre Dame M.S. in Accountancy program.

Once the M.S. in Accountancy program receives a completed application, decisions regarding admission and scholarship will be made on a rolling basis. The average scholarship granted in recent years was $16,000 - $17,000 with several exceeding $30,000.

The University of Notre Dame - Mendoza College of Business

Dr. Paul Lamore, Associate Professor of Management and MSB Coordinator

King’s College has a collaborative agreement with the University of Notre Dame and the Mendoza College of Business for their Master of Science in Business (MSB) program.  This program is open to all students who earn an undergraduate degree in a non-business major.  The Master of Science in Business program provides a foundational set of business skills for students who want to bridge their undergraduate studies into a career in business.  The MSB program is an 11 month, full time course of study with a structured curriculum totaling 41 credits hours. 

The program teaches you the necessary language of business—tools, skills and processes—to give your business career an accelerated start. With the graduate business degree you will be ready to read a financial statement, engage in a conversation with a brand manager, analyze operational issues, manage a project and all of its complexities, and much more. Through the signature Bridge Course, you will explore your individual area of undergraduate study and how it has uniquely positioned you for success in your field of interest when coupled with a business education.

In general, King’s College students who meet the following conditions may apply for the Master of Science in Business program at Notre Dame:

• Will have earned an undergraduate degree at the start of the MSB program
• Will have earned an undergraduate degree in a non-business area (such as liberal arts, science and engineering)
• Will have little to no work experience

The University of Notre Dame MSB Agreement with King’s College

The University of Notre Dame guarantees a maximum of two seats each academic year for two non-business majors from King’s College to be granted admission into the MSB Program. To be eligible, King’s College students must be US citizens, or permanent US residents, and meet the following criteria and submit their completed admissions application for early decision consideration by November 15 of their senior year:

• An overall GPA of 3.4 or above;
• Average Grade of 3.4 or better in all of the program prerequisites taken at the time of application;
• A GMAT score of 620 or above (68^th percentile); and
• A written recommendation of the Dean or department chair

Notre Dame will also give full consideration to all King’s College students who:

• Have completed, or are on track to complete, their undergraduate degree with  a strong record of academic achievement;
• Submit a completed application for admissions along with two letters of recommendation, official GMAT scores, and official transcripts.

Master of Science in Business – Career Building Courses

Career and Job Search Methods - 1 credit hour

This course allows students to jump start the career development process, and is designed to provide MSB students with the tools to manage their career throughout their lifetime. It not only addresses the planning process necessary to start the job search, but also incorporates specific assistance in such areas as resume writing, interview preparation and skills, networking and other tactics.

Bridge: Your Background and Its Unique Value to Business - 1 credit hour

The knowledge, skills and abilities gained by students throughout their undergraduate training have great potential value within the profession of management. The objective of this course is to help students identify how they may best leverage their undergraduate training to produce unique value for business. This is accomplished by way of a series of guided exercises requiring students to discern specifically the ways in which their undergraduate experiences have affected the way they seek, evaluate and process information, how they present themselves and are perceived by others in new and unfamiliar settings, and how they tend to analyze situations and solve problems. Students will be encouraged to draw on the experiences of alumni who have similar undergraduate training, and who have achieved success in the business world. By way of these explorations, students will discern the value-creating potential of the habits of mind and behavior they have developed as a result of their own, personal educational and life experiences.

Master of Science in Business – Career Building Opportunities

Students in the Master of Science in Business program will work with Assistant Director of Career Services to connect with employers, recruiters and alumni to cultivate new and exciting career opportunities. The dedicated staff will support and assist you with your career development in the following ways:

• Career Fairs, both on-campus (3 per year) and off-campus
• Workshops (resume writing, career fair preparation, job search strategies, interview skills, and many more)
• GoIrish, the Career Center’s primary recruiting database, including both on-campus and off-campus interviewing opportunities
• Career Search, Career Shift, and other online tools that allow you to search for companies and jobs by industry, location, size and other factors
• Focus, the Harrison Assessment, and other online career exploration and self-assessment instruments

The One-Year Master of Science in Business Program Fellowships

All MSB applicants are eligible to apply for a fellowship during the application process. Fellowships are awarded based on merit and furtherance of our mission to create leaders who demonstrate the capacity to lead with integrity, foster effective organizations and consider the greater good.  The criteria for selection of a fellowship award may include leadership traits, personal background, academic or extracurricular achievement, or commitment to serving or working with historically underserved or underprivileged populations.  Since a fellowship evaluation is completed in conjunction with the admissions decision with no extra paperwork required, a candidate only needs to apply to the program to be considered.