July 1, 2013 Fullerton, CA -  The College of Education is pleased to announce that it is expanding its academic curriculum with the addition of its first online Bachelor of Arts program in Liberal Studies/Teacher Preparation. This becomes the third online degree program housed in Hope International University's (HIU) College of Education, along with the Master of Education and Master of Arts in Education Administration.

The new program will start in Fall 2013 and was recently approved by the WASC Senior College and University Commission fast track authorization. The fast track authorization allowed for a shorter approval period than the normal waiting period of one year or more.

Dr. George West, Dean of the College of Education, said this expansion allows the University to offer even more options for individuals who are passionate about becoming educators. 'HIU is continuing to excel in developing servant leaders in the field of education,' said Dr. West. 'This new cutting-edge program is designed for students who want to earn a BA degree, but cannot enroll in a traditional onsite program.'

HIU offers 38 online programs designed for the adult learner who requires a convenient program delivery option. Traditional on-campus students will also benefit from the program by being able to complete some of their coursework online. They can select from concentrations including Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education, Secondary Education ' English, and Secondary Education ' Social Science/History.

The program was designed to work seamlessly with neighboring community colleges. 'We desire to develop partnerships with our local community colleges to provide an online option for their graduates to complete an online degree program, as well as working with home-school students to become a 'university of choice,'' said Dr. West.

HIU is now the first Christian Church-affiliated college to offer a full teacher preparation program online.

Hope International University is a regionally ranked private Christian university in Southern California offering undergraduate, online, and graduate programs. Founded in 1928, HIU integrates faith, service, and learning. Through faculty and staff dedicated to student success, HIU students experience a transformative educational experience and are prepared to make an impact with their lives. Our diverse student body represents 42 states and 18 countries around the world.

To learn more, please visit the Hope International University website at http://www.hiu.edu or contact Katie Gladding, Director of Marketing and Community Relations, at 714-879-3901, x2692.