At a time when New York is dealing with a critical teacher shortage, one local college is hoping to fill that void.

The New York State Department of Education has approved three new undergraduate teacher certification programs at UAlbany.

UAlbany will now offer new bachelor of science degrees in adolescent education, childhood and special education, and early childhood/childhood education.

It’s the first time the university has offered undergraduate teacher certification programs since 2004.

This will also fill the gap left by the closure of the College of Saint Rose.