Direct from Undergrad to Grad School: Pathways Programs Help NYSCAS Students Get a Leg Up

Three Key Programs Offer Accelerated Pathways for Students Seeking a Graduate Degree in Education, Pharmacy or Computer Science

October 16, 2020

Find out more about the different pathways available below as they each have their own specific requirements.

1. Education

Teaching is a noble profession that is always in demand. Our “4+1” program allows students to earn an M.S. degree in education and prepare for the New York State Education Department (NYSED) Certification in just one year after completing their bachelor’s degree. Students with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 who have already completed 60 credits of undergraduate coursework can apply.

“The program helps students get a jumpstart while they’re still pursuing their undergraduate degree,” said Jacob Easley II, Dean of Touro College Graduate School of Education. “It acts as a catalyst to help them plan and think about their graduate studies early on in their careers.”

Dr. Easley added that in New York State, all teachers are required to pursue a master’s degree. “This track is beneficial to undergraduate students both professionally and economically,” he said.

This program enables students to take four graduate courses during their junior and senior years and once they’ve completed their undergraduate degree, they can officially apply and start their master’s degree in one of the following fields: early education and special education, childhood education and special education, special education generalist, and mathematics education.

2. Pharmacy

From retail settings to hospitals, clinics and more, there are more opportunities than ever for pharmacists. Our pre-pharmacy program enables qualified students to begin classes at Touro College of Pharmacy (TCOP) before they finish their undergraduate studies, enabling them to complete both their B.S. and Pharm.D. degrees in only seven years, as opposed to the traditional eight years.

Students can apply to TCOP during their junior year and the requirements include a cumulative GPA of 3.0, the Pharmacy College Admission Test (PCAT) favorable recommendations, and the completion of 67 undergraduate credits of prerequisite coursework. TCOP also encourages students to enroll in additional courses in genetics, statistics, and computer science for an even stronger chance of being selected for this program.

“For students, this is a unique opportunity to get started on a rewarding career in one of the most respected professions, in less time and for less money than if they had pursued both degrees separately,” said Dr. Henry Cohen, Dean of TCOP

3. Computer Science

In today’s digital world, careers in the computer science field are thriving. The launch of the “Integrated Technology Merit Fast Track” was designed for students majoring in three fields including information technology: network administration and security; business management and administration information systems: programming; and digital multimedia design.

To apply, students must first complete 30 undergraduate credits with a minimum major GPA of 3.5 and maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0.

“This is a win-win situation for students, who can get a bachelor’s and a master’s degree for less money and in less time. The credentials you get from us can be used for the rest of your life,” said Issac Herskowitz, Dean of Graduate School of Technology.

Touro’s pathways programs provide invaluable benefits to forward thinking students invested in earning a graduate degree and pursuing their professional goals. Now is the right time to continue on in your educational journey.