Huntington University introduces two new dual licensure programs for educators

Huntington University has two new dual licensure programs for educators, available beginning on August 25, 2025. The programs Early Childhood Education and Exceptional Needs: Intense Intervention will both include licensure in Early Literacy, which will meet requirements of the new Indiana Early Literacy Endorsement. 

According to an article on Huntington University's website, Dr. Luke Fetters, who serves as the vice president for academic affairs and dean of the faculty, further explained the dual licensure programs. He is quoted as saying, “Huntington University is proud to offer these new certificates in Early Childhood Education and Exceptional Needs: Intense Intervention. These certifications can stand alone or they can serve as a specialty track within our Master of Education program. These two certificates, along with our longstanding TESOL certificate, place Huntington University at the forefront of literacy education in the State of Indiana.”

The programs are online programs that directly respond to the needs seen in classrooms around the state, which include finding educators who are prepared and skilled in early learning, literacy, and supporting students with exceptional needs. 

The two new programs, as well as the existing TESOL/EL licensure program, can be taken on their own or as a concentration in the Master of Education program.

The Early Childhood Education + Early Literacy program prepares educators for working with kids from birth to eight years old. The program focuses on embedding early literacy concepts in all subject areas, encouraging family engagement, and instructing in ways that are appropriate to the age of the child and their development.

The Exceptional Needs: Intense Intervention + Early Literacy program is for educators who would like to specialize in working with children who have learning disabilities or other challenges. The program will teach educators how to provide specialized instruction while also targeting early literacy skills.

Dr. Shoshannah Hernandez, who is an assistant professor of education and an associate director of teacher education – graduate, said, “We designed these programs in direct response to what schools and teachers are telling us they need. Our goal is to provide high-quality, immediately applicable and easily accessible programs for teachers that enable them to meet student needs. By providing programs in these high-need areas as dual licensure programs, we’re also allowing teachers to participate in a value-added opportunity where they get two credentials in one program.”

For more information about Huntington University, visit the school’s website.