The first years of a child’s life shape everything that follows. High-quality early childhood education is a game-changer—setting children up for success in school and beyond. At Carlow University, we believe that dedicated, well-trained educators are the key to making that impact. Our Dr. Rae Ann Hirsh Apprenticeship Program empowers early educators to advance their careers while continuing to transform young lives every day.
About the Apprenticeship Program
Created to support early childhood educators in Pennsylvania who want to advance their careers while continuing to work, this program is designed to remove barriers and build capacity within the early education system while fostering professional growth.
Participants must work at least 25 hours per week at a licensed childcare center and can pursue one of two degree paths:
- Bachelors in early development & Learning (EDLE)
- Pre-K-4 Teacher Certification
Flexible, Work-Friendly Learning
We understand the demands of working professionals. That’s why Carlow offers a hybrid learning model:
- Certification-seeking students attend evening, in-person classes at our Oakland, Cranberry, or Westmoreland campuses, combined with online coursework.
- Non-certification students can complete their EDLE degree fully online.
- Apprenticeship students earn up to 21 credits through an “on-the-job” format, applying course content directly to their work in early learning settings.
Personalized Support
Students in the apprenticeship program receive individualized mentorship from experienced early childhood educators who provide guidance and encouragement. Additionally, students have access to:
- Professional development workshops and training opportunities
- A departmental lending library for course materials
Financial Assistance
Carlow is committed to making this program affordable. Most students graduate with little to no cost for their degree, thanks to a combination of financial aid and scholarships, including:
- PASSHE PDO (Early Childhood Education Professional Development Organization)
- T.E.A.C.H. Early Childhood Pennsylvania Scholarship Program
Our Apprenticeship Program Team collaborates closely with Carlow’s Financial Aid Office to assist students in securing state and federal grants, including PELL and PHEAA.
Join a Supportive Community
Carlow’s apprenticeship program empowers educators to thrive in their careers while staying true to their passion for shaping young learners. Hear from our students:
“I think that all of my courses so far and all of my teachers have put an emphasis on culturally inclusive classrooms and how to be able to do that effectively and without bias.”
“Because it was affordable, and it worked well with my schedule as a full-time employee and a full-time single mom.”
“Just being able to have a mentor to talk to if you ever have any problems. She’s extremely helpful, giving me what I need, the books, the funding, which is amazing, and she has helped me a lot. All members of the Apprenticeship Program have helped me.”
For More Information
Contact Susan Polojac, M.Ed., Apprenticeship Program Director at slpolojac@carlow.edu
In Memory of Dr. Rae Ann Hirsh (1971-2022)
Dr. Rae Ann Hirsh dedicated her career to early childhood education, shaping the future of teaching through mentorship, research, and advocacy. A professor at Carlow University for 12 years, she pioneered Pennsylvania’s first four-year apprenticeship program, ensuring accessible pathways to higher education for early educators. Her legacy continues through the dedicated work of her colleagues and the passionate educators she inspired.
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Carlow University prohibits sex discrimination in any education program or activity that it operates. Individuals may report concerns or questions to the Title IX Coordinator, Jackie smith at jmsmith@carlow.edu or 412-578-6050.