What? You missed the Birth to 8 concentration webinar? We've got you covered. We saved a recording just for you! If you're just looking for answers to the questions, then jump below the video.
Birth to 8 Webinar follow-up questions and answers:
1. How many credits does it take to graduate from this program?
It takes 120 credits to complete this program.
2. Where can I get more information about the ECE Scholarship?The awarded amount for this scholarship is $400 per credit/Max $3600 per semester. Check out the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education Office of Student Financial Assistance website for eligibility and how to apply. Application deadline is June 1, 2016.
3. What standardized tests are required for admission?The only required tests are the SAT or ACT for students transferring less than 24 credits or who have been out of high school less than 3 years. No MTELs are required for admission into this non-licensure program.
4. How many credits can I transfer?
Undergraduate students may apply to transfer 60 credits from a regionally accredited 2 year institution, or 75 credits from a 4 year accredited institution. Articulation agreements with institutions like Mount Wachusett Community College and Quinsigamond Community College may allow for transferring 66 credits from a 2 year institution.
5. Do you have to be working in the field to be accepted into the program?No, you do not have to be working in the field to enroll in this program. If you are working in the early education and care field, you may be able to use your place of employment as your site for practicum hours required for some of the courses
6. How do I apply for the $100 to $250 tuition fee waiver?
You don’t need to apply for the tuition waiver; this will automatically be applied to fall tuition for accepted students in the Birth to 8 fall 2016 cohort. You must enroll in education courses (EDUC 3040 and SPED 3401) to receive the tuition waiver. The amount awarded is limited to the funds available and the number of applicants.
7. When do I have to have my FAFSA in to be eligible for Financial Aid for the fall?
We recommend you complete the FAFSA as soon as possible to ensure the highest funding available. Our school code is 002184. Please contact our Financial Aid Office at 978-665-3156 with any questions, or for assistance in filing a FAFSA.
8. What is your application deadline?
We offer rolling admission which means you may apply at any time prior to the start of the semester. Be sure to submit your application by May 12th to receive the $40 application fee waiver.
9. When can I register for fall classes?
Registration opens July 5th. Fall 2016 and spring 2017 courses are available for viewing on the course schedule/seats available list. We're hopeful this will be helpful for you as you can plan your course and life schedules in advance.
10. Do you offer a payment plan?
Yes, we offer a payment plan for the fall and spring semesters. For more details visit our website or call the Student Accounts Office at 978-665-4126.
11. How do the courses work with a full time work schedule?
Education courses will take place in accelerated 7-week sessions on campus from 6 to 9pm in the fall and spring semesters. Students may complete Liberal Arts and Sciences requirements throughout the year, including two 5-week summer sessions and a 3-week online winter session, in a variety of formats including evening, online and hybrid courses.
12. I am interested in the program but would like to start in the summer and not the fall. Can I do this and still be eligible for the tuition waiver?
Students may begin Liberal Arts and Sciences coursework in the summer session, however financial aid funding won’t be available until the fall semester. Students must enroll in fall education courses (EDUC 3040 and SPED 3401) to receive the tuition waiver.
13. How do I know if I qualify for the Mass Transfer program?
Community Colleges and State Universities have specific programs directly linked for an easier transfer process. Majors are matched based on similar curriculum through Mass Transfer agreements. The Birth to 8 major is a Mass Transfer approved program through Quinsigamond Community College and Fitchburg State. If you are an Early Childhood Education major at Quinsigamond, then you are eligible to utilize the Mass Transfer application. Since it is an evening program though, the tuition waiver is not available.
Agreements are constantly being updated so we hope to have additional Mass Transfer options available through other Community Colleges in the near future. You can verify eligibility by visiting www.mass.edu/masstransfer.
Are you ready to apply?
All official documents for your application should be mailed to:
Admissions Office
Fitchburg State University
160 Pearl Street
Fitchburg, MA 01420
What are you waiting for?
