Dean's Welcome

The Graduate School of Education and Professional Development (GSEPD) provides an array of degree and professional development programs, continuing education opportunities and services designed to address the needs of adult learners. Students served by the School are typically mid-career professionals who are committed to continuing their careers and professional development within the state, region or local community. With an average age of 36, students are mature, goal-oriented adults who approach their education with a broad base of experience and previous learning. The major emphasis of the School is the development, design and delivery of programs and services to meet the needs of this target population.

The School offers numerous programs/specializations for the professional educator, twenty of which lead to professional licensure . A doctoral program in education leadership is available with areas of emphasis in school administration and higher education administration. The school also offers a doctoral program in curriculum and instruction through a cooperative arrangement with West Virginia University. In addition, there are several programs for non-educators.

The School seeks to develop students who are capable of filling a variety of leadership roles and who understand and work effectively within cultural and social role expectations and settings. Graduates will be problem-solving information seekers who can function as independent professionals. They will possess the knowledge and skills needed to access information and to apply this information to the resolution of real-life problems.

Knowledgeable and committed faculty are a critical element of GSEPD operations. Programs are delivered in traditional and nontraditional ways using a core group of full-time faculty complimented and supported by a cadre of expert part-time faculty. These part-time faculty are associated with school systems, higher education institutions, business, industry and other agencies throughout the region. The School and the faculty are committed to using innovative approaches to address educational and community needs. Technology plays a major role in these approaches.