51³Ô¹ÏÍø

Graduate Certificate in Special Education

The Graduate Certificate in Special Education in the College of Education and Human Development at 51³Ô¹ÏÍø is a non-degree, practice-oriented pathway for educators seeking Pennsylvania teacher certification in special education (pre-K–12). Courses are offered in person at 51³Ô¹ÏÍø’s Main Campus or in a flexible online format that combines asynchronous learning with required field experiences. The 19-credit program can be completed on a part-time basis and is ideal for working professionals.

Who is the Special Education Certificate for?

This certificate is specifically designed for currently certified teachers in other content areas (e.g., elementary, secondary) who want to expand their credentials to serve students with disabilities in inclusive and specialized settings. Individuals seeking initial teacher certification in special education (pre-K–12) should explore the MEd in Special Education or the . 

Why study Special Education in the College of Education and Human Development?

Grounded in evidence-based practices and inclusive pedagogies, the program focuses on the design and implementation of individualized supports, proactive classroom strategies and collaborative instruction for students with diverse learning needs. It emphasizes preventative, strengths-based approaches that promote equity and reduce reliance on traditional diagnostic labels.

Graduates are well-prepared to teach and support students with disabilities in inclusive and specialized pre-K–12 settings, and to foster equitable classrooms that promote access, belonging and individualized learning. You will be equipped to

• develop instructional strategies for students with mild, moderate and complex learning needs; 

• learn how to implement inclusive practices, individualized instruction and positive behavioral supports;

• understand the legal, ethical and cultural foundations of special education; and

• gain field-based experience with coaching and supervision aligned to Pennsylvania Department of Education certification standards.

Program Outcomes

Through the Special Education program, you will

• identify and implement evidence-based practices to support academic and behavioral needs;

• provide instruction and services in inclusive classrooms and specialized settings;

• design and deliver individualized supports based on students’ strengths, interests and needs;

• understand and apply special education law, ethics and data-driven assessment practices; and

• demonstrate readiness for Pennsylvania certification in special education (pre-K–12).

Program Format & Curriculum

The Special Education Graduate Certificate program comprises 19 credits. Courses are available in person at 51³Ô¹ÏÍø’s Main Campus in Philadelphia or fully online, with required field experiences completed at a school site near you. Most classes are scheduled in the evenings to accommodate working professionals. You can attend on a full-time or part-time basis, and have up to four years to complete the program. .

Required courses you will complete include the following. 

• Assessment in Special Education (3 credits)
• Teaching Students with Moderate and Severe Disabilities (3 credits)
• Literacy Instruction for Students with Disabilities (3 credits)
• Effective Transition Practices for Students with Disabilities​ (3 credits)
• Effective Instruction for Students with Disabilities (3 credits)
• Special Educator Induction Capstone​ (3 credits)
• Supervised Teaching (1 credit)