PROVIDENCE – Providence College has begun a master’s program for early career teachers focused exclusively on urban-community teaching skills.

“We’re trying to help new teachers in urban schools develop a better understanding of who their students are, what challenges they face in and out of school, and how we can support them,” said Brian M. McCadden, dean of the school of professional studies, in a statement.

The program is comprised of 10 courses, worth a total of 30 credits, and is designed to be completed in one academic year and two summers. It follows a cohort model, in which students begin and finish together. Focus areas include education administration, middle-level education, special education, literacy and counseling.

Students must have completed at least one year of full-time teaching in a high-need urban school prior to joining the program. •