PK-12 Special Education Certification (Online)

General Description

For the graduate student who desires a special education (PK-12) teaching certificate. Successful completion of state tests is required for certification. (21 credits)

Overview and Mission

Neumann University’s graduate program leading to the PK-12 Special Education Certification Program is consistent with, and driven by, the University’s Mission Statement. Rooted in the Franciscan tradition, this program emphasizes ethical leadership, respect for all individuals, and a commitment to serving diverse communities, reflecting the values of justice, peace, and integrity.  This program prepares candidates to teach in a variety of special education settings supporting learners with intellectual, physical, cognitive, and/or behavioral exceptionalities.

Program Design and Outcomes

The PK-12 Special Education Certification Program adheres to the Pennsylvania Department of Education’s (PDE) program design. As per the PDE guidelines, successful graduates of Neumann University’s PK-12 Special Education Certification Program will be able to:

• Demonstrate knowledge and competence in the areas of academic, social, and emotional growth, and methods to use that knowledge to maximize a student’s capabilities.​
• Utilize research-based effective instructional strategies and diagnostic tools
• Demonstrate a thorough understanding of child development and appropriate diagnostic and instructionally adaptive strategies for all learners
• ​Competently apply appropriate instructional practices to meet the diverse needs of all PK-12 students.

Admission Requirements

Applicants with a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited, degree-granting institution who have successfully completed all prerequisite courses are eligible for entrance to the PK-12 Special Education Certification Program, subject to the approval of the Program Director.  Acceptance is on a competitive basis after submission of all credentials.  All applicants must submit the following:

• A completed Graduate Student Application, in print or online through www.neumann.edu.
• Official transcripts from each regionally accredited, degree granting institution attended.  
• A copy of current teacher certification. (When pursuing additional certification)
• Security clearances that meet current state-approved teaching requirements.

Nine Credits may be transferred into the program with the approval of the School Dean.

Progression/Retention Requirements

For the PK-12 Special Education Certification Program, continued progress requires that the student maintain an overall “B” average (cumulative 3.00 GPA) in the required courses and satisfactory participation in the program. Completion of all degree requirements for the program is not to exceed five years. Exemption to this time limitation must be applied for in a written request to the School Dean. Graduation from the program is contingent upon (1) submitting a signed Application for Graduation form to the Registrar on or before the date specified in the Academic Calendar; and (2) successful completion of all course work, including report(s) of action research, an effective, formal presentation of learning to a faculty committee, and an individual portfolio of developed resources and materials. The student must maintain an overall “B” average (cumulative 3.00 GPA) in all required courses, with no more than two grades of “C” level work.