Program code: SPCE-CERT
The Department of Communication Disorders, Special Education, and Disability Services offers two graduate programs: Master of Education degree in Special Education and the Master of Science degree in Speech-Language Pathology. These programs are in accord with the current national standards of the Council for Exceptional Children and the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, respectively.
The MEd program in Special Education is structured to address the educational needs of three types of graduate students: (a) those who hold Pennsylvania Mentally and/or Physically Handicapped or Special Education certification; (b) those who hold another teaching certificate who wish to obtain Special Education Certification without earning the MEd degree; and (c) those who do not want to qualify for a teaching certificate, but who wish to earn an MEd degree and work professionally with persons with disabilities.
The program intends to prepare graduates who will: a) implement curricula to meet individual needs of students with disabilities; b) demonstrate adaptability, flexibility, and initiative in meeting the changing needs of students with disabilities; c) use positive behavior management techniques; d) assess pupils strengths and limitations for instructional planning; e) practice diagnostic prescriptive instructional procedures; f) adapt special equipment for individuals; g) plan for and effective use paraprofessionals; h) engage in effective communication and collaborative partnerships; and i) apply professionalism and ethical practices.
All MEd candidates must successfully complete a comprehensive examination as the terminal experience in their course of studies. For candidates wanting special education certification, individual programs of study will be designed based on review of transcripts.
Candidates seeking Pennsylvania (PA) Special Education certification must have an active PA Instructional I or Instructional II teaching certificate. Out-of-state teachers may also earn their Pennsylvania Special Education PreK-12 certification if they transfer their current teacher certification to PA.
Admission Criteria
Applications are due by March 15 for consideration for Summer/Fall acceptance and by October 15 for Spring acceptance.
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