MELROSE PARK, Pa.— Gratz College has launched a new Master of Science in Camp Administration and Leadership, a program designed to empower camp professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary for successful camp leadership.

The 36-credit, online program begins in February 2019 and is the only master’s degree program of its kind in the country. Courses include foundations in camp administration; leadership for the camp professional; camp law and ethics; communication and collaboration; management and marketing; curriculum and program development; personnel and human resources; supervision; and inclusion and special needs.

The program culminates with a practicum in the camp setting.

“This is really for anyone looking for professional development or credentials in camp administration,” program director Dave Malter said. “In an increasingly competitive world where camp administrators need to be the best, this is a program for beginning and experienced camp leaders. It’s geared toward giving professionals at any level a stronger background in running camp.”

Malter, who also serves as director of Gratz’s Master of Education program, holds a bachelor’s degree in communications and a master’s degree in English. He’s working on a doctorate in education from the Jewish Theological Seminary, where he’s studying leadership trends at Jewish camps.

Malter teaches business communication at Temple University and works as a consultant for camps across the country and even internationally. He’s been involved with camps since he attended his first camp at age 6 and he believes a master’s degree program will help the field grow, develop and professionalize.

“I’m a huge believer in both education and camp, and bringing the two together is important,” he said. “This program will be like going to camp or business conference every day until you finish the degree. It’s taught by experienced people from the camp field, from the business sector and from a legal background. Really, it’s just a great professional development piece.”

CONTACT:
Alysa Landry | Communications Liaison | alandry@gratz.edu
Dodi Klimoff | Executive Assistant to the President | dklimoff@gratz.edu
Naomi Housman | Director of Institutional Advancement | nhousman@gratz.edu