Fostering collaborative excellence. Discover the advantages of a transformational educational experience at Carlow University

Carlow has a long history and outstanding reputation for educating great nurses. Our mercy centered mission, along with small class sizes and state of the art skills and simulation facilities make Carlow a perfect place to pursue a nursing degree. Students receive individualized attention and mentorship from our experienced nursing faculty who are experts in their area of nursing. Located in the heart of Oakland, we have partnerships with healthcare facilities within the Pittsburgh region and easy access to a variety of clinical experiences within the community, in acute care and community health.  Throughout our program, Carlow nursing students learn about nursing care with a focus on ethics, a commitment to social justice and a goal of decreasing heath disparities.  Students have opportunities to explore different aspects of nursing as they learn and grow into professional nurses. If you have an interest in becoming a nurse, whether you are looking for a traditional BSN program, a 2^nd Degree BSN program, an RN to BSN program, or a Practical Nurse Certificate program, one or Carlow’s undergraduate nursing programs can help you achieve your goal of becoming a nurse.

Carlow Skills and Innovative Learning (CSIL) skills and simulation labs are incorporated into all clinical courses in the curriculum.

Faculty mentoring for individualized student NCLEX preparation in the final semester of the program.

Perioperative summer internship program offered as a summer elective for BSN students

Faculty & staff

In addition to their advanced degrees, all our faculty have clinical practice experience in the areas of nursing that they are teaching. Our smaller class sizes and faculty advising model provide students with opportunities for individualized learning and career mentoring starting in the first year of the program. We hire adjunct clinical faculty with expertise and current experience in the areas of nursing practice that they are teaching.

Ashley Cole, DNP, RN, CCRN Program Director of Undergraduate Nursing & Assistant Professor

P. Maria Flavin, DNP, MSN, CRNP, FNP-BC, RN Interim Program Director, RN-BSN & Associate Professor

Jessica Huber, PhD, MSN, RN, CCRN, CPN Director of Experiential Learning and Assistant Professor in the College of Health and Wellness

Tiffany Johnson, DNP, MSNEd, RN Assistant Professor

Teya Kamel RN, MSN, RYT Faculty, Instructor of Nursing & Yoga

Angela G. Kelly DNP, RN Nursing Faculty

Diana Kozlina-Peretic, DNP, CRNP, MSN, RN Associate Dean

Janice Nash, DNP, RN Professor/Chair of the Undergraduate Nursing Department

Angela Simmons DNP, MSN-NCEL, RN Founding Director Practical Nurse Program

Lisa Spagnolo, MSN, RN Nursing Instructor

Angela Summer, DNP, MPA, RN, CVRN-BC Assistant Professor and Director of Accelerated Second Degree Nursing Program

Erin Welling Instructor

Discover the advantages of Carlow University’s Psychology, Counseling, and Criminology Programs

Are you interested in a career that benefits from a strong understanding of human behavior and mental processes? At Carlow, we prepare students with the knowledge and skills for a wide variety of careers involved in working with people in diverse ways.

Our undergraduate majors provide students with foundational knowledge in psychology, neuropsychology, and criminology, with opportunities to specialize in such areas as Child Development, Counseling, Crisis and Trauma, and Applied Criminal Justice. There are opportunities for field placements or to participate in faculty-led research teams. Can’t decide on one major? We make it easy to double major or add a minor or a concentration to your major, so you can explore all your interests.

At the graduate level, Carlow offers programs that prepare students for careers in mental health-related fields, research, fraud and forensics, and more.

At Carlow, we understand the needs of a diverse student body. Some of our programs can be completed fully online, offering flexibility and opening doors for students who are otherwise unable to pursue a degree. In addition, we offer accelerated pathways that help save students time and money so that they can achieve their goals sooner at a more affordable cost.

Faculty & staff

Ashley Cole, DNP, RN, CCRN Program Director of Undergraduate Nursing & Assistant Professor

P. Maria Flavin, DNP, MSN, CRNP, FNP-BC, RN Interim Program Director, RN-BSN & Associate Professor

Jessica Huber, PhD, MSN, RN, CCRN, CPN Director of Experiential Learning and Assistant Professor in the College of Health and Wellness

Tiffany Johnson, DNP, MSNEd, RN Assistant Professor

Teya Kamel RN, MSN, RYT Faculty, Instructor of Nursing & Yoga

Angela G. Kelly DNP, RN Nursing Faculty

Diana Kozlina-Peretic, DNP, CRNP, MSN, RN Associate Dean

Janice Nash, DNP, RN Professor/Chair of the Undergraduate Nursing Department

Angela Simmons DNP, MSN-NCEL, RN Founding Director Practical Nurse Program

Lisa Spagnolo, MSN, RN Nursing Instructor

Angela Summer, DNP, MPA, RN, CVRN-BC Assistant Professor and Director of Accelerated Second Degree Nursing Program

Erin Welling Instructor

Accreditation

The PsyD in Counseling Psychology program is accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA). The MS in Professional Counseling program is accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Program (CACREP).

Devoted to Making a Difference in Students’ Lives

At Carlow, we strive to develop ethical leaders who will take compassion, mercy, and a passion for inclusivity and fairness into their classrooms. That’s why our secondary education program is designed for those who are devoted to discovering how to make a difference in the lives of their future students.

With a degree in secondary education, you can teach biology, chemistry, mathematics, social studies, or English to students in grades 7-12. After completing the program, you will have the skills needed to educate and guide your students in a safe and unbiased learning environment.

Curriculum for Secondary Education

The number of courses in this major will vary depending on the content area for each student. Students are required to choose an area of focus from biology, chemistry, mathematics, social studies, and English. In addition to classroom work, field work and student teaching are a requirement of this major. Carlow will connect students with opportunities for both field work and student teaching. Students will be prepared to be just, merciful, and culturally responsive educators.

Quick Facts

• This program is rooted in the values of the Sisters of Mercy to prepare just and merciful educators who are committed to inclusivity and who are able to adapt to cultural differences.
• Through field experience, students will be well-prepared to become ethical leading educators in our region’s schools.
• Carlow University has partnerships with area school districts for field work, student teaching, and the residency program.
• This program prepares students for Pennsylvania Department of Education teaching certification.
• Opportunities for field work and student teaching can be done on campus at the Carlow University Laboratory School.

Faculty & staff

Keely Baronak, EdD Chair, Professor, Education

Sean Freeland Assistant Professor

Marissa McClure-Sweeny, PhD Professor and Program Director, Early Childhood Education

Patricia L. McMahon, PhD Professor

MiIsha Reid, PhD Program Director and Assistant Professor of Special Education

Curriculum for degree in special education

Carlow’s special education degree majors will embody the spirit of mercy while learning how to create effective and appropriate teaching strategies for various mental, physical, social, emotional, and behavioral disabilities in a variety of diverse settings—all the while helping to create an environment where special needs students feel safe, respected, and valued.

Quick Facts

• There are 39 total courses (29 major courses and 10 Compass Core Courses)
• Students in this program will be required to complete fieldwork hours embedded within individual courses. Those particular hours will vary depending on the course.
• Per the Pennsylvania Department of Education, students in this program must also complete a 12-week student teaching experience.
• Carlow’s BSPED Certification program provides the necessary coursework required for special education certification in Pennsylvania.(Students must meet additional requirements and apply for certification after graduation.)

Carlow University’s New EdD Program: Devoted to the Future of Education

EdD courses at Carlow are different from other programs because they feature a distinctly integrated doctoral study design, with each course building upon previous ideas while preparing students to engage with new concepts that can inform their practice. Throughout the program, students are invited to study systems design, to engage in discursive deliberation, and to explore new transformational approaches to education.

Quick Facts

• Our EdD is rooted in our rich history and traditions of social justice, Mercy values, and Scholar-Practitioner philosophy
• We invite and respect diversity of thinking and expression as we learn together to challenge social injustices and inequities in schools.
• This program positions students as innovative thinkers as they present their ideas and practice-based research.
• Students can learn and work with other innovative system thinkers.

Online Degree
Gain the knowledge you need at your convenience with our online degree.

Discover the advantages of Carlow University’s Education Programs

Now more than ever, our nation’s schools need skilled and compassionate educators, curriculum specialists, and instructional leaders.

In Carlow University’s Education programs, you will gain specialized knowledge and hands-on teaching experience. Just as importantly, you will come away with a deeper understanding of how to care for the whole student as an empathetic instructor and mentor.

Carlow purposefully offers programs devoted to the unique needs of today’s diverse student populations. Program options include art education, early childhood development, special education, and secondary education.  Certificate options include dyslexia, online teaching, and autism. Learn firsthand from passionate faculty and recognized experts in the field.

New! Doctorate in Education

Reimagine the future of education

The Campus Lab School provides incredible practicum and field experiences for Education students.
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It takes one teacher or one principal to change the trajectory of a child’s life. Representation matters.

The Apprenticeship Program is a degree pathway for individuals working in childcare centers devoted to high quality early education.

Education students have the opportunity to join Future Educator’s Club, Best Buddies, or by-invitation, the international honor society in Education, Kappa Delta Pi. 

Our College in High School provides four Education classes during the school year and summer opportunities for those interested in teaching.

We offer special graduate level PD classes for $270.00, and we have a robust Speaker Series available for community organizations and schools. In addition, we offer a virtual Educator Workshop series accessible free of charge to the community. 

Faculty & staff

Our faculty and staff are devoted to nurturing and supporting current and future Scholar-Practitioners who are reflective in action, capable of creating and serving in High Performance Learning environments, and who support and respect the dignity and diversity of all learners.

Ashley Cole, DNP, RN, CCRN Program Director of Undergraduate Nursing & Assistant Professor

P. Maria Flavin, DNP, MSN, CRNP, FNP-BC, RN Interim Program Director, RN-BSN & Associate Professor

Jessica Huber, PhD, MSN, RN, CCRN, CPN Director of Experiential Learning and Assistant Professor in the College of Health and Wellness

Tiffany Johnson, DNP, MSNEd, RN Assistant Professor

Teya Kamel RN, MSN, RYT Faculty, Instructor of Nursing & Yoga

Angela G. Kelly DNP, RN Nursing Faculty

Diana Kozlina-Peretic, DNP, CRNP, MSN, RN Associate Dean

Janice Nash, DNP, RN Professor/Chair of the Undergraduate Nursing Department

Angela Simmons DNP, MSN-NCEL, RN Founding Director Practical Nurse Program

Lisa Spagnolo, MSN, RN Nursing Instructor

Angela Summer, DNP, MPA, RN, CVRN-BC Assistant Professor and Director of Accelerated Second Degree Nursing Program

Erin Welling Instructor

Accreditation

Our Education programs are accredited by the Pennsylvania Department of Education. In addition, our Reading Specialist Program is accredited by the International Dyslexia Center.

View our student teaching handbook
View our education department handbook

Department of Education Points of Pride (2019-2023)

• In June 2023, Carlow University’s Education Department and Campus Laboratory School received a $85,000 grant from a private charitable foundation to continue the legacy of The Campus Lab School’s Founder, Sister Mary Paul Hickey. “The Sister Mary Paul Hickey Professional Educator Development Project,”encompasses an annual Sister Mary Paul Hickey Professional Development Educator Workshop Series; The Sister Mary Paul Hickey Symposium; The Sister Mary Paul Hickey Teacher Research Mini-Grants Project; and graduate scholarship awards to teachers from The Campus Lab School and schools in the Pittsburgh and Greensburg Dioceses. Sister Mary Paul Hickey was the founder of The Campus Laboratory School of Carlow University and served as Principal for more than 40 years. She left a legacy of service, innovation and a deep love for the students and teachers at The Campus Lab School. This grant honors her memory while building on her legacy of excellence in education and support of teacher development.

• In January 2023, Carlow University’s Department of Education was awarded two workforce diversity grants from the Pennsylvania Department of Education in the amount of $100,000 each. These grants established, “The Innovative Teacher Prep2Practice Program,” and “The Innovative Principal Prep2Practice Program,” for aspiring educators and principals and to support Pennsylvania’s workforce.

• In September 2022, Carlow’s Department of Education was awarded a $12 million sunsetting grant from a local, anonymous donor. “The Dr. Rae Ann Hirsh Apprenticeship Hub for Early Childhood Education,” was successfully endowed, following a two-year concept testing period that resulted in the receipt of the sunsetting grant. Carlow University is the first, four-year university in Pennsylvania to be designated by the Department of Labor as a four-year early childhood apprenticeship program and its work will continue in perpetuity as a result of this endowment gift.

• In May 2022, Carlow’s Department of Education was awarded an $808,025 grant from the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education Professional Development Organization (PASSHE PDO) in support of apprenticeship scholarships, student supports, and professional development opportunities.

• In December 2021, the Education Department was the recipient of a $109,122 grant from The Peirce Family Foundation in support of “The Peirce Dyslexia Program at Carlow University.” Funding encompasses a 4-week intensive summer structured literacy program, Camp Carlow and after school literacy workshops for children from The Campus Laboratory School and from the West Oakland/Hill District and greater Pittsburgh community.  The program also provides literacy tutoring support for Perry High School students (one of Pittsburgh Public Schools) conducted by graduate students of  Carlow’s four-course dyslexia track, which is embedded in the MEd Reading Specialist Program. 

• In July 2021, Carlow’s Department of Education was awarded an $80,150 grant from McAuley Ministries for the “Community Literacy Engagement Project (CLEP),” an individualized literacy support, four-week summer program for children from Campus Lab School and the West Oakland/Hill District communities. The grant also supports literacy tutoring in The Campus Lab School’s Dyslexia Center throughout the school year.

• In July 2021, Carlow University’s Education Department and Campus Laboratory School received a $93,500 grant from a private charitable foundation to establish, “The Sister Mary Paul Hickey Symposium and Teacher Leader Institute.”Components of the project include an annual professional development educator workshop series and symposium, teacher research mini-grants, and scholarship awards to teachers from The Campus Lab School and from schools in the Pittsburgh or Greensburg Diocese. 

• In June 2021, the Department of Education was the recipient of two separate $225,000 grants to fund the “Power of ONE,” a program aimed at providing teacher certification for educators of color. Funded generously by the McElhattan Foundation and The Grable Foundation, these grants benefit a strategic partnership between the University and partnering school districts. The grants allow Carlow to partner with school districts to diversify Pittsburgh’s teacher pipeline, allowing for a more seamless and supportive degree pathway for initial teacher certification for Black and Indigenous People of Color (BIPOC), having a tangible impact on increasing the number of educators of color in school districts where many students identify as Black and multi-racial.

• In May 2021, Carlow University was awarded $886,892 from the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education’s Professional Development Organization Grant (PASSHE PDO) through the Office of Child Development and Early Learning for scholarships and supports for childcare providers who are attending a college or are enrolled in university programs. Supports include textbooks, tutoring support, a full-time workforce coordinator, and an apprenticeship coaching website. Part of the grant will support Carlow’s early childhood apprenticeship program, which helps to improve childcare employee retention, reduce barriers for workforce entry, and increase diversity in teacher candidates.

• In February 2020, The Heinz Endowments awarded a $1 million grant and a $1 million endowment to support “The Dr. Rae Ann Hirsh Apprenticeship Hub for Early Childhood Education” to improve the quality of early childhood education in Pennsylvania.

• In September 2019, a local, anonymous foundation awarded two grants totaling $1 million to Carlow’s Department of Education to support a two-year concept testing period for the establishment of, “The Western Pennsylvania Early Childhood Apprenticeship Hub,” the first, four-year early childhood apprenticeship program in the state of Pennsylvania. 

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Get your college career off to a great start!

Discover the pathway that may be best for you in pursuit of an undergraduate degree at Carlow University.

Ugandan boat ride

Experience campus living

Experience campus living

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Engage in a variety of direct service-learning projects

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Explore Your Passion and Empower Global Communities

Welcome to a unique, first-semester educational opportunity that helps you in getting to know yourself better, while helping others. The Carlow faculty have designed this immersive experience so you immediately can apply your learnings in real-world settings to make a meaningful impact. In addition to core curriculum courses that you can apply to most majors, you will spend 4 weeks abroad in Uganda.

Quick facts

• Experience campus living and a structured self-reflection learning program focused on reinvigorating your passions and your purpose in life 
• Serve alongside your peers, through service-learning projects in the fields of education, healthcare, social justice and more  
• Benefit from onsite counseling to help you discover and process your strengths, interests and skills throughout your experience
• Minister to the needs of Ugandans, igniting your global perspective of the ways in which you can best serve yourself and the world around you

Your Discovery Program experience

On-campus discovery and preparation

You will begin your self-discovery living on Carlow University’s charming, urban campus in the heart of Pittsburgh’s exciting Oakland area.

Service Learning in Uganda (30 days)

Apply what you learned, sharpen your problem-solving skills and make positive contributions through service and volunteer opportunities at Ugandan schools and health care clinics.

One of your guides and mentors abroad will be Global Center Director, Susan O’Rourke. She has led study abroad programs for decades and is committed to helping you become immersed in the Ugandan culture with amazing moments and adventures. Alongside Susan will be a counselor available to students, both are trained in healthy relationships, stress management practices and study-abroad protocols.

Serve, Learn & Volunteer

• Volunteer (provide tutoring and engage in fun learning activities) at Noah’s Ark School for Children with Disabilities in Entebbe
• Participate in service projects (plant orchards and tend to school gardens) for Bright Kids Uganda on Lake Victoria Island
• Serve (provide instruction and adapt learning materials for children with disabilities) at Silver Memorial Inclusive Community Learning Center (SMILE) in Opucet
• Assist with vision assessments and distribution of donated eye glasses for seniors and school children

Meet a New Culture

• Hear inspiring life stories from locals, young and old; learn about their history including the effects of living as a British colony and subsequent years of conflict
• Become familiar with local customs and their challenges
• Interact with people living in remote villages without access to electricity, clean water, phones or computers
• Prepare, taste and eat authentic Ugandan food 

Take amazing adventures

• Visit the source of the Nile River and go white water rafting 
• Take a hike to the tallest waterfall in eastern Africa, Sipi Falls 
• Observe animals in their natural habitat on a three-day safari 
• Visit Chimpanzee Island

An impactful experience

“I would go back and serve in Uganda in a heartbeat. I wish I had more time there. It had a huge impact on my life after returning and loved the opportunity to be able to have an impact on the lives of those there.”

– Kaylee Goblesky, Carlow University Nursing student

Program Director

Susan O’Rourke, EdD
Global Center Director

Global Center Director, Susan O’Rourke has been working in Uganda for 10 years (since 2012). She has personally selected the comfortable and secure living facilities for the Uganda service-learning program and prearranged secure transportation through established partners in Uganda. Dr. O’Rourke has developed experiential learning and service projects through established partnerships and non-government organizations (NGOs).

Partners such as:

• Noah’s Ark School for Children with Disabilities
• Bright Kids Uganda
• Silver Memorial Inclusive Community Learning Center (SMILE)
• Prime Tower Primary School

Reid, Milsha

Dr. MiIsha Reid is an Assistant Professor of Special Education in the Education Department at Carlow University, where she teaches undergraduate and graduate students aspiring to become teachers. At Carlow, … Continued

Freeland, Sean

Sean P. Freeland, PhD, is an Assistant Professor of Secondary Education (STEM) and Educational Leadership at Carlow University. He began his teaching career at University High School in Morgantown, WV … Continued