Ryan Marin – Bureau Chief
Broward college offers Bachelor of Science degree programs in various areas of Education. The college currently offers degrees in Exceptional Student Education, Secondary Biology, and Secondary Mathematics.
According to Elizabeth Molina, Dean of Academic Affairs, these degrees were chosen because they are considered critical shortage areas in the field of teaching.
“These areas represent the greatest need among teachers statewide. According to the Florida Education Association, schools in the state had roughly 5 percent of their teaching positions unfilled in August. At BC, we prepare highly-qualified teachers in these high need areas.”
One of the biggest benefits to Broward College’s education is the high level of training that students receive.
“Over the years, over 15 BCPS Teachers of the Year have graduated from our program. The fact that we assist students with passing certification exams, connect with students at a deeper level, and always put students first is a testament of our commitment to producing the best teachers in the state,” said Molina.
Along with high quality education, the program comes at an affordable price. According to Molina, students can complete their BS degree in Education for $10,000 or go through the EPI Program for under $3,000.
Samantha Alfonso, a student in the Exceptional Student Education program, has enjoyed her first semester in the program. Some of the biggest factors for her are the affordability and the program’s emphasis on putting students first.
“I had a problem with my schedule, so I emailed Juan Ospina, Associate Dean of the Education pathway,” Alfonso said. “He responded and quickly helped me fix the issue. Small things like that show how Broward College truly cares for their students.”
The college also continues to help students after graduation.
“We provided assistance with passing the Florida teacher certification exams and job placement,” Molina said. “We will forever collaborate with graduates and continue to support them during their teaching career.”
One example of this is the mock interviews that the school holds for graduates of the teacher education programs. The college hosts an event where graduates can practice their interview skills with real principals from local Broward County Schools.
Students often receive job offers from this event and go on to work at those schools. The school also offers test prep for exams needed to become a teacher and assistance with creating a resume, showing they prepare students for life during and after Broward College.
To apply for the program, you must have graduated with an associate degree in education, have a 2.5 GPA on a 4.0 scale, and taken an introduction to education course. For more information about the teacher education program, you can go to https://www.broward.edu/academics/education/.
The college also offers Bachelor of Applied Science in Information Technology, supervision and management, technology management, and supply chain management and a Bachelor of Science in nursing.
Statistics show the school is one of the nation’s leading colleges for students seeking a successful career. According to Broward College’s website, the school was named #1 in Florida for the number of industry certifications awarded to students. “Students earned 1,535 industry certifications or licenses in the areas of public safety, healthcare, information technology, manufacturing and transportation.”
For more information about admission into one of BC’s bachelors programs, visit https://www.broward.edu/admissions/bachelors-programs.html
