The School of Education and Professional Studies at Eastern Connecticut State University held an open house for its graduate programs on March 24 in the J. Eugene Smith Library. Prospective graduate students spoke with faculty and browsed Eastern’s graduate offerings, which include programs in accounting, early childhood education, elementary education, secondary education, educational technology, reading and language arts, and organizational management.

Each of the programs offer flexible scheduling for working adults, including online, evening and weekend courses. “Motivated students with compliant personal schedules can complete a program in one year,” said Jacob Easley, dean of the School of Education and Professional Studies. Easley also pointed out that lifetime earnings increase significantly by obtaining a graduate degree.

Graduate students have access to Eastern’s technology-rich facilities and benefit from small classroom sizes and attentive faculty. Full-time students also have the option for on-campus housing. Grants, loans and other types of financial aid are available as well.

Former Eastern undergraduate Courtney McGruder ’09 is interested in returning to campus to pursue a graduate degree in elementary education, to complement her undergraduate degree in history and social science.

Currently a third-grade math and reading teacher at a charter school in Hartford, McGruder said, “Even though I live inManchester, Eastern is my first choice for graduate school because I know their programs are accommodating to working adults with families and their faculty are supportive.” She continued, “With longstanding faculty and a small campus, Eastern has the feel of a family operation. I’m excited about this degree and opening new doors.” Once McGruder obtains her teacher certification, she plans to move into public education.