Interested in Learning More About the Master of Science in Camp Administration & Leadership Program?

The American Camp Association, NY & NJ touched base with Dave Malter, Director of Camp Administration and Leadership for Gratz College to learn more about the Master of Science in Camp Administration and Leadership program.

How exciting that there is a Masters in Camp Administration and Leadership! How did the program begin? 

DM: This program began about 10 years ago thanks to a group of camp leaders, led by Henry Skier and including Dr. Jay Sexter, Norman Friedman and Skip Vichness, who identified an opportunity to offer an educational opportunity for current and aspiring camp professionals. The Masters in Camp Administration and Leadership now has over 150 alumni and is the only program of its kind that provides a degree that is focused on providing professional development aimed at developing the highest standards for all camp professionals.

Can you tell us about the program?

DM: There are many advanced degrees (minimally a Master’s degree) that would help camp professionals be better at what they do in addition to attending sessions at annual camp conferences. Gratz College’s Master’s in Camp Administration and Leadership is one such program – and the only program in the United States that offers a Master’s degree focused on Camp Administration. This two-year degree can be earned while working full-time because the entire program is online with top notch faculty consisting of experienced camp professionals and educators. The 36-credit, fully accredited program culminates with a practicum at students own camps; picking projects that will meet their camp needs. The program connects students with other camp professionals from all over the world, representing a range of camps and programs. The students range from professionals in their 20’s who are just embarking on their camp profession to those in their 50’s who have many years of experience in camp leadership. Over the past 10 years, this program has flourished with over 150 graduates and rave reviews from the camp community.

Can you tell us about the scholarship program and who it’s for?

DM: We have several scholarship opportunities that are available exclusively for Camp students. The AMSkier Family and an Advisory Board of committed camp professionals have generously funded the Norman Friedman Scholarship Fund available to all enrolled students. ACA, NY & NJ has generously contributed to this fund to provide scholarships for any of their members who enroll in the program. We are excited about these partnerships and look forward to welcoming ACA, NY & NJ members to the Gratz College family.

Posted on Tue, November 26, 2019 by Jess Michaels