
Flagler College, a prestigious liberal arts institution located in the historic city of St. Augustine, Florida, has long been recognized for its commitment to academic excellence and small class sizes. Known for its unique blend of tradition and modernity, this college provides students with a personalized educational experience. Although traditionally focused on undergraduate programs, Flagler College has recently expanded its scope in response to the growing demand for advanced studies and professional training. This article explores the master’s programs at Flagler College, including the specific fields, benefits, and potential outcomes of pursuing a graduate education at this esteemed institution.
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Flagler College was founded in 1968 and has developed a strong reputation as a top liberal arts college. Its primary mission has historically centered on undergraduate education, with a range of bachelor’s programs in disciplines such as Business Administration, Psychology, Education, Fine Arts, and Communications. However, as the landscape of higher education has evolved, so has Flagler College’s academic portfolio.
To meet the needs of an evolving workforce, Flagler College now offers master’s programs designed to prepare students for specific career paths in high-demand fields. Flagler College’s graduate offerings are tailored to students who seek specialized knowledge, hands-on experience, and the credentials necessary for career advancement.
Flagler College have Masters Programs
Master’s in Deaf Education (MA)
The Master of Arts in Deaf Education is one of the standout graduate programs at Flagler College. This program is crafted to equip educators with the specialized skills required to teach students who are deaf or hard of hearing. The curriculum combines rigorous academic training with practical experience to ensure graduates are well-prepared to make a meaningful impact in both mainstream and special education settings.
Key components of the Master’s in Deaf Education include:
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Students explore topics such as bilingual-bicultural education, sign language proficiency, and audiology. The curriculum is carefully designed to address the unique educational needs of deaf and hard-of-hearing students.
- Practicum and Field Experiences: Flagler College emphasizes hands-on experience through various practicum and internship opportunities. Students work directly with deaf and hard-of-hearing students under the guidance of experienced educators.
- Licensure Preparation: The program prepares graduates to obtain teaching licensure in deaf education, enabling them to pursue careers in various educational settings, including public and private schools, specialized schools for the deaf, and more.
This specialized degree offers a unique advantage for educators looking to make a profound difference in the lives of students with hearing impairments, a field where demand continues to grow.
Master’s in Education of the Visually Impaired (M.Ed.)
In addition to deaf education, Flagler College offers a Master’s in Education of the Visually Impaired, another highly specialized field that addresses the shortage of professionals in this area. This program prepares educators to work with students who are blind or visually impaired, empowering them to navigate and succeed in both educational and life settings.
Core features of the M.Ed. in Education of the Visually Impaired include:
- Specialized Training: The program covers Braille instruction, orientation and mobility training, and assistive technology designed to aid visually impaired students.
- Hands-On Experience: Students gain practical skills through classroom-based practicums and real-world internships, helping them to become effective educators and advocates.
- Advocacy and Community Engagement: Graduates are encouraged to engage in advocacy efforts for visually impaired students and to connect with local and national organizations that support this population.
This program is ideal for educators who wish to specialize in working with visually impaired students, a field where professionals are in high demand due to the unique needs of this community.
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Specialized and Focused Programs
Flagler College’s master’s programs are unique because of their specialized focus. Rather than offering a broad range of graduate degrees, Flagler has chosen to concentrate on areas where it can make a significant impact. The Deaf Education and Education of the Visually Impaired programs serve not only to provide valuable educational services but also to fill critical needs in the field of special education. This focus allows Flagler to channel resources and faculty expertise into creating highly effective programs for students and educators alike.
Small Class Sizes and Individualized Attention
Flagler College is renowned for its small class sizes, a tradition that extends to its graduate programs. Graduate students benefit from close relationships with faculty members who are experts in their fields and from a community-oriented campus environment. This personalized approach to education ensures that each student receives the support they need to succeed academically and professionally.
Experienced Faculty and Practitioners
The faculty at Flagler College is composed of experienced educators and practitioners who bring both academic expertise and real-world insights to the classroom. This combination of theory and practice prepares students to address real-world challenges effectively and confidently. Flagler’s faculty members also serve as mentors, guiding students as they develop their skills and transition into advanced roles in their fields.
Strong Support for Professional Development
Flagler College offers extensive support for professional development, including networking opportunities, career counseling, and internship placements. The college’s strong connections with educational institutions, non-profits, and government agencies provide students with ample opportunities to make professional connections that can aid in career advancement. Flagler’s alumni network, while small, is active and supportive, helping graduates to succeed in their chosen careers.
Admissions and Financial Aid
Flagler College has a selective admissions process for its master’s programs, reflecting its commitment to academic excellence. Applicants are generally expected to have a bachelor’s degree in a related field, relevant work experience, and a demonstrated commitment to their chosen profession. For those who meet these criteria, Flagler College offers various forms of financial aid, including scholarships, grants, and loans, to help make graduate education accessible to a diverse student population.
Application Process
- Online Application: Prospective students must complete an online application, providing academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose.
- Interview: Select candidates may be invited for an interview with program faculty to discuss their career goals, relevant experience, and motivation for pursuing a graduate degree at Flagler.
- Financial Aid Opportunities: Flagler offers both need-based and merit-based financial aid options to help students finance their education. Graduate students may also qualify for federal aid and specialized scholarships based on their field of study.
Career Opportunities for Flagler College Graduates
Graduates of Flagler College’s master’s programs are well-positioned for various rewarding career paths. The specialized nature of these programs equips them with skills in high demand, particularly in the field of special education. Some career outcomes include:
- Deaf Education Teachers: Graduates can work in schools, non-profit organizations, or government agencies that serve the deaf and hard-of-hearing population.
- Educators for the Visually Impaired: Many pursue positions in schools for the blind, special education departments in public schools, and organizations focused on supporting the visually impaired.
- Specialized Consultants: With their expertise, graduates can also serve as consultants, advising on educational policies, curriculum development, and accessibility improvements for visually and hearing-impaired students.