Teachers are needed now more than ever. If you're passionate about helping others learn and grow, start your education career journey at RCBC. Prepare to become a teacher, teacher assistant, or paraprofessional in the K-12 school setting. Program courses emphasize best practices, educational theory, and diversity among student populations.
Our education programs offer supportive faculty, hands-on experience, and a seamless 3+1 pathway to Rowan University—so you can earn your bachelor's degree in Inclusive Education. Programs include:
- Liberal Arts and Sciences: Option in Education, A.S.
- Inclusive Education 3+1 Pathway to a Bachelor's Degree.
Why study education at RCBC?
- Strong pathways into high-demand NJ schools
- Supportive faculty and student support services
- Real classroom experience while you learn
Potential Earnings: Educators in New Jersey earn competitive salaries that increase with experience, certification, and district placement. Typically, teachers earn approximately $45,000-$65,000 annually, with experienced certified teachers earning $70,000-$90,000+ depending on district, role, and credentials.
In New Jersey, once you've earned at least 60 college credits and your associate degree, you can begin substitute teaching (with a background check, fingerprinting, and school district sponsorship).
College Catalog
Want more information about the courses you’ll need to complete this degree and what you will achieve with it?
Official 3+1 Program
Earn an RCBC Associate of Science degree and a Rowan University Bachelor of Arts in Inclusive Education with the 3+1 Inclusive Education major.
How many credits would I need to graduate as an Education major at RCBC?
The Associate of Arts degree at RCBC requires a minimum of 64 credit hours for graduation. The associate of science degree requires a minimum of 66 credit hours for graduation. Both degree programs will require learners to enroll in a combination of general education courses, designated program courses, field work, and electives.
What tests/courses must I take prior to teaching?
To become a certified teacher in the state of NJ, a minimum of a Bachelor’s degree is required. Throughout your first four years of college, prospective teachers will need to complete the appropriate amount of undergraduate work, including your general education requirements, designated program courses, electives, fieldwork experience, and subject-area courses. Upon completion of the first two years (approximately 60 credits earned), prospective teachers will be required to pass the Praxis I exam. The Praxis I exam will prove competency levels in basic skills (reading, writing, and mathematics). After graduating from a four-year college or university, prospective teachers will be required to pass the Praxis II exam. The Praxis II exam will prove competency levels in specific content knowledge areas depending on your chosen area of study (English, Mathematics, Science, Art, Communication, etc.). By completing the required coursework, fieldwork experience, and Praxis I and II exams, prospective teachers will earn their teaching certificate, which will enable them to enter the field of education.
Do I major in Education or a specific subject area to become a teacher in NJ?
In the past, learners who wanted to become teachers would simply major in Education for the grade level they wanted to teach (elementary, middle, or high school). However, only enrolling as an Education major is no longer an option. Recently, licensing requirements in New Jersey changed. To earn an Education degree, prospective teachers must now enroll in a subject-area education program and a general education program. In essence, prospective teachers will earn two consecutive degrees: a bachelor’s in education and a bachelor’s in the subject area of choice. Through this change in state licensing, graduates will now leave the four-year college or university qualified to teach their chosen subject area at any level (K-12).
Are background checks required before I teach?
Yes, all educators in New Jersey must be fingerprinted and undergo a formal background check. Background checks are conducted through the Criminal History Review Unit (CHRU) division of the New Jersey State Police (NJSP). In addition, substitute teachers, paraprofessionals, and all other school staff will be required to be fingerprinted and have a background check conducted by the CHRU division of the NJSP. The CHRU phone number for further information is (609) 292-0507.
How can an individual be accepted to the education program at RCBC?
RCBC has an open enrollment policy for new students. There is no separate application process for the Education Program. Simply declare education as your major when applying to the college.
Transfer students must maintain a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 2.75 or higher throughout the program to facilitate transfer into this program.
The minimum requirement to be awarded a Standard Certificate to teach in New Jersey is a 2.75 GPA, a bachelor’s degree, and successful completion of required coursework and certification exams.
Is there someone on the RCBC campus who can help me with the transfer process?
Yes! Here at RCBC, we are committed to helping make the transfer process as smooth as possible. All learners who wish to transfer to a four-year institution are encouraged to visit our transfer center on the Mt. Laurel campus. Our RCBC transfer advising staff will work individually with current students to provide information on various schools, majors, and transfer protocols. Together with the transfer advising staff, students will work to develop an appropriate academic plan for graduation from RCBC and subsequent transfer to the four-year institution. You can read more about the transfer center at http://www.rcbc.edu/transfer or email or call the transfer center to make an appointment at transfer@rcbc.edu (856) 222-9311, ext. 2737.
Does RCBC have an Education club that I can join?
Yes, RCBC has an active Education club. Currently, the Education club meets once a week during the Fall and Spring terms. Club members participate in activities such as Read Across America, host guest speakers on “hot topics” in education, and engage in community service events. For more information on the Education club, please contact Erica Osmond at eosmond@rcbc.edu
Corvena Francis-Denton, Education Instruction and Program Coordinator, has been a full-time faculty member since 2016. Mrs. Francis-Denton is the current advisor for the Education Club and teaches EDU 112, EDU 130, EDU 105, and PSYC 250. She currently teaches both distance and ground classes. She serves as the coordinator for both the 3+1 program and the education program. She is a certified Wilson Language Reading instructor with an MS Ed. in Special/General Education 5-9, and a BA in Psychology and Black Studies from the City University of New York. She holds a Diploma in Teaching from Shortwood Teachers College, Kingston, Jamaica.
Stephanie Baruffi- Eckstein, Instructor, is a Reading Specialist, professor, and children’s book author with over 20 years of experience in K–12 and higher education. She currently teaches at Rowan College of Burlington County. She serves as a supervisor of clinical interns at Rowan University, where she prepares pre-service teachers to deliver effective, inclusive instruction. Her expertise lies in evidence-based literacy practices aligned with the Science of Reading, and she has completed IMSE training in the Orton-Gillingham approach. Her research explores teacher preparedness for literacy instruction and classroom practice.
Dr. Patricia A. Cerulli, Senior Adjunct Professor, was formerly a K-12 public school teacher and an elementary school principal. Served as Rowan University Director of the Beginning Teacher Induction Center and adjunct professor of the Teaching as a Profession course. Previously Dean of Liberal Arts at Rowan College at Burlington County. r. Cerulli developed the initial curriculum for the Teaching as a Profession course for RCBC and is currently an instructor of the Historical Foundations of American Education course.
Mrs. Sandy Furness, Senior Adjunct Professor, has been at RCBC for six years and teaches both the Historical Foundations of American Education courses and the Teaching as a Profession course. Mrs. Furness’ background includes developing and teaching a complete Management Training Curriculum for a Government Department; co-owning a company devoted to assisting businesses with the development and training of their staff; developing and teaching various training courses for adults; and serving as a high school business teacher. Her degrees are in education and school administration.
Dr. Erica R. Osmond, Instructor & Coordinator for Education and Speech Communication, has been a full-time faculty member for RCBC since 2008. Dr. Osmond developed the curriculum for the General Education course, Public Speaking, and teaches both Public Speaking and Effective Oral Communication. She has experience teaching in both traditional and distance learning environments and was a past recipient of the Instructional Technology Council’s Award for Excellence in Learning. In addition, Dr. Osmond is the current advisor for the RCBC Education Club and serves as a Success Coach. Dr. Osmond has experience as a middle school teacher and earned degrees in Speech Communication, Corporate and Public Communication, and Higher Education & Adult Learning.
Dr. Brita A. Theadford, Senior Adjunct Professor, has served as an Elementary School teacher, Principal, Teacher Evaluator, and District Supervisor of Curriculum and Instruction for public schools in New Jersey, and served as a Lead Chairperson for the New Jersey Department of Education (NJDOE) Model Curriculum – Biology. Adjunct Professor for the Rowan University’s Mathematics and Science Partnership McSIIP grant. Dr. Theadford is a Professional Development Trainer for the Educational Information and Resource Center (EIRC) and is an Instructor of the Teaching as a Profession course.
Rowan College at Burlington County has an active Education Club open to any enrolled RCBC student. The club meets throughout the Fall and Spring semesters. Prospective teachers discuss current trends in education, host guest speakers, and partake in community service events sponsored by the college, and participate in the Student Government. New club members are always welcome. If you would like to join the Education Club or for more information, please get in touch with the club advisor, Corvena Francis-Denton, at cfrancis-denton@rcbc.edu.
