A national higher education data aggregator recently honored Stonehill for consistently delivering leading-edge undergraduate education programs that respond to constant changes in technology, public policy and the education field. 

Colleges of Distinction, a trusted resource for more than 5 million students, parents and guidance counselors, awarded Stonehill it’s 2023-2024 Education Program of Distinction badge after reviewing similar programs at colleges and universities across the United States.

"Before granting awards, we conduct a thorough evaluation of the programs,” said Tyson Schritter, the organization’s chief operating officer. “We look for qualities such as stability, practical experiences, advising and mentoring, high-impact practices, and successful student outcomes. It's truly wonderful to see how Stonehill College exemplifies these qualities within the field."

Examples of the attributes and achievements that helped Stonehill earn this recognition includes:

Stonehill’s Department of Education Studies has consistently found success in preparing students for careers as teachers through its undergraduate and graduate programs of study. 

The Education Studies Department offers four majors that lead to initial teacher licensure from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts: Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education, Secondary Education and Special Education.

The department offers five undergraduate programs (early childhood, elementary, secondary and special education, as well as a nonlicensure education studies degree) along with graduate programs in inclusive education, autism, and diversity, equity and inclusivity. 

As early as the first year, students in the department are offered opportunities to engage in real-world teaching experiences, including placements in urban, rural, public and private schools, both large and small.

The Education Studies Department supports students with high-quality academic advising, major-specific advising, and career advising specific to education majors. 

Education majors at Stonehill enhance their undergraduate studies with high-impact practices such as undergraduate research, global learning, first-year experiences and Community-Based Learning opportunities.

Students in the department have numerous opportunities to build professional connections in their field through practicum and prepracticum placements, internships, and networking activities. 

"Stonehill produces future educators who possess not only in-depth knowledge, but also the skills to be effective mentors, providing empathetic support and employing innovative teaching methods," said Schritter.

Stonehill produces future educators who possess not only in-depth knowledge, but also the skills to be effective mentors, providing empathetic support and employing innovative teaching methods