This certification prepares future educators to be certified in Special Education (Grades PK-12) and is designed for licensed Pennsylvania teachers who hold an Instructional I or Instructional II Certification. The program provides coursework and field experiences that prepare educators to be successful in inclusive special education classroom settings.
The program is approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Education and the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
- Special Education Program Mission
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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.
The program starts on Jan. 17, March 9, & July 10 in 2023.
The Special Education Certification Program complies with current Pennsylvania and national standards. In addition to coursework that focuses on young students with special needs such as learning disabilities, social/emotional disorders, and autism, the program includes coursework in technology, literacy and teaching strategies and methods supporting differentiated instruction. Important trends in programs and services, and strategies to develop reading skills for students are also studied. This program provides both historical and current knowledge of legislation, laws and research findings, existing and emerging theory, and methods of assessment for this population. To enhance their understanding of working with children with various abilities and disabilities, students are required to complete classroom field experiences.
Read more about:
Questions? Contact:
Kelly Burr, M.Ed.
Associate Director of Graduate Admissions
610.796.8296 (phone), 610.796.8367 (fax)
Lucinda Schaeffer, M. Sc.
Coordinator, Special Education Programs
610.790.1931
