In Summer 2006, the faculty of the education department approved the creation of a five year, undergraduate -- transitioning into graduate school -- pattern as its program of study for Sacred Heart University undergraduates.

In this program, Sacred Heart undergraduates apply for admission to the education program in their Sophomore year, begin taking professional education courses in the Junior year, complete seven Education courses prior to satisfying the BA/ BS requirements, and complete the initial certification requirements -- along with the requirements for the Master of Arts in teaching degree during their fifth year. During the fifth year, candidates also serve as interns in public schools for 180 days. This internship includes a benefit equal to the tuition cost of 33 graduate credits. The clinical requirement of student teaching is accomplished during 50 of those internship days.

The discrete requirements for the planned program of study leading to recommendation for initial certification program are identical to the 36 credit program already in place at Sacred Heart University. For members of this five year program only, the 400 level methods or curriculum courses are also applied to the requirements of the MAT degree. Candidates in this program complete total of 60 credits of professional education.