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- calendar_today October 22, 2026
Mount Allison Brings Back Education Degree After Almost Three Decades
Mount Allison University has announced the return of its bachelor of education program, almost 30 years after it was last offered in 1997. The news was shared during a well-attended event at the Sackville campus, where more than 100 students, alumni, and community members gathered to hear about the university's plans for the new teacher education initiative.
Details of the New Bachelor of Education Program
The revived bachelor of education will be a 16-month post-baccalaureate degree, available to applicants who already hold a four-year bachelor’s degree. The program will offer two streams: one focusing on teaching students from kindergarten to grade 5, and the other on grades 6 to 12. Applications open in October 2027, with the first cohort expected to begin their studies in May 2028. Between 70 and 90 students are anticipated to be admitted for the first intake.
Responding to Teacher Demand in New Brunswick
The decision to relaunch the education degree program comes as New Brunswick faces ongoing challenges related to teacher shortage. Ryan Gamm, special adviser to the provost and a key figure in designing the program, emphasized the university's responsiveness to regional educational needs. "We have the ability to respond to the needs and context of New Brunswick and to prepare teachers for New Brunswick schools and students today," said Gamm. This sentiment was echoed by Anglophone East School District superintendent Randy MacLean, who highlighted the increasing demand for qualified educators as the region experiences growth and the construction of new schools.
Program Features: Indigenous Learning and Practicum Experience
The education degree program will integrate a 12-week in-school practicum and dedicate part of its curriculum to Indigenous learning. According to Gamm, these components are aimed at equipping future teachers with practical experience and a comprehensive understanding of diverse learning approaches. "We see Indigenization as an ongoing process. It's something we're going to continue to work on as we move towards implementation and as the program launches and matures," Gamm explained.
Student and Community Interest Drives the Program Relaunch
Interest among potential applicants is high. Last year, a student survey at Mount Allison revealed strong enthusiasm for a bachelor of education offering. Many Mount Allison graduates have traditionally pursued education degrees elsewhere. Sara McConnell, a 2020 graduate now teaching high school math and science in Moncton, expressed excitement about the new program and the opportunities it will bring to future students. "I wish this had been an option for me a couple years ago, and I'm really excited that future students will get that opportunity," she said.
A Path Forward for Teacher Education
Mount Allison's new post baccalaureate degree is seen as a strategic move to address the region's teacher certification requirements and to prepare educators who are equipped to meet current classroom needs. With a comprehensive curriculum, a commitment to education practicum, and a deliberate focus on supporting new brunswick teachers, university leaders and local education officials believe this program will play a significant role in strengthening the province's educational workforce.
Source: cbc.ca.
