Remember the teacher that unlocked the mystery of reading for you way back in first grade?
Maybe it came easy for you but not to the boy or girl sitting next to you. You could be the person who opens doors for students of all abilities by earning a Special Education Certification at Alvernia University.
Alvernia University has developed a program that prepares future educators to be certified in Special Education for students who already hold another teaching certification. The program provides coursework and field experiences that prepare students to be successful in a variety of inclusive special education classroom settings.
The Special Education Certification 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 certification program also includes coursework in technology, literacy and teaching strategies and methods for the instruction of students. Certification students are required to complete classroom field experiences throughout their program to enhance their understanding of working with children with various abilities and disabilities.
View the curriculum and course descriptions required for this certification, learn more about our admission process, or request more information.
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Alvernia's Undergraduate, Masters, Certifications, and Ph.D. programs help you meet the challenges of education with innovative, engaging teaching methodologies. Learn more.
Faculty Perspective
Ellen Engler, B.S., M.S.Ed.
Associate Professor of Education
Student Profile
Associate Professor of Education
“The M.Ed. and graduate certification programs at Alvernia University employ a values-centered approach to prepare highly-qualified, caring educators and school leaders. Through coursework and field work, students become ready to address many needs of diverse populations we now see in today’s schools.”
Student Profile
Steph Snavely, M.Ed. ’10
“The M.Ed. program at Alvernia University has provided an academically challenging experience which is relevant to my career as a teacher.”
Michelle Salloum, Special Education Certification ’08
“Alvernia University strives to integrate a variety of different teaching methods to ensure success.”