St. Thomas University and Miami-Dade Schools Partner for Teacher Professional Development

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May 20, 2010, 06:00 ET

MIAMI, May 20 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Master's degree in Communication Arts with specializations in Art Management and Electronic Media Arts at St. Thomas University in Miami, Florida has been approved by the Miami-Dade School District for their teacher professional development program. Through this program teachers are eligible for course reimbursement and upon completion of the degree are entitled to Advanced Degree Payment. The MA Communication Arts – Art Management specialization is approved for art teachers only and the MA Communication Arts-Electronic Media Arts is approved for all full-time, regular teachers.

"All teachers working in private or public school systems are eligible for a 40% St. Thomas University discount on registration fees", said Dean of Leadership Studies Gloria Ruiz. "This innovative MA Communication Arts graduate program fosters the capability to work in varied roles within education as well as the communications and arts industries or to succeed in further studies leading to the Ph.D." adds Dean Ruiz.

St. Thomas University has been strengthening its position in the global artistic sphere since the creation of a graduate degree in Art Management, a specialization that teaches "art as a business", according to University spokesperson and Chief Marketing Officer Marivi Prado. The distinct program is increasingly attracting professionals from arts related projects engaged in events, marketing and management of art venues such as galleries, museums and other related arts organizations.

Another distinctive degree offered by St. Thomas' School of Leadership Studies is the Electronic Media Arts specialization. Enrolled students gain a comprehensive understanding of film, television, videogaming and the Internet through a multidisciplinary approach that helps them land jobs in demand, in business and media arenas. Both specializations require completion of a set of core courses that teach the theoretical and practical applications of communications to these areas.

Dean Ruiz continues "We are very pleased with our continued collaboration with the Miami Dade School District in preparing teachers for the 21st century classroom. Programs such as our Communication Arts graduate program bring new information and develop the analytical skills needed for the well rounded educator." The School of Leadership Studies offers programs in Education, Communications and Professional Studies. For more information, contact either Ms. Alina Philipp, Program Associate at [email protected] or Dr. Ruiz at 305.628.6508.

SOURCE St. Thomas University