The Special Education Certification (PK-12) Program prepares aspiring and licensed teachers to meet the requirements for the Special Education PK-12 Certification in Pennsylvania. Online coursework is combined with practicum and student teaching in PK-12 schools.

The program is designed for working adults with bachelor’s degrees who seek to become a special education teacher or a learning support specialist and for licensed PK-12 teachers who seek to expand their certification areas. 

The program is approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Education and the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

 

Special Education Program Mission

The Alvernia University Education Department, rooted in a proud Franciscan heritage, is dedicated to providing instruction in educational theory balanced with current best practices. The Special Education Program focuses on the high leverage practices of interdisciplinary collaboration and inclusivity within a legally and ethically responsible environment, designed to foster growth in all children and adolescents with identified learning needs in our schools today.

Program highlights: 


The program starts on Aug. 21 & Oct. 12 in 2023; Jan. 16, Mar. 7, May 13 & July 8 in 2024.


Read more about:


 

Questions? Contact:

Kelly Burr, M.Ed.

Director, Graduate Enrollment

610.796.8296 (phone),  610.796.8367 (fax)

kelly.burr@alvernia.edu

 

Lucinda Schaeffer, Ed.D.

Director, Special Education Programs

610.790.1931

lucinda.schaeffer@alvernia.edu

Julie Kehr, Special Education Teacher
Why Choose Alvernia?
"Alvernia introduced me to the world of special education, and I knew this would be my career track. Currently, I am employed as a Special Education Program Coordinator. In this position, I can continue serving students with special needs in the greater Reading area, specifically those with autism and multiple disabilities.”

— JULIE KEHR, Elementary/Special Education ‘09, Principal Certification ‘22