Mentally/Physically Handicap Certification

Students working to obtain a Mental/Physical Handicap Certification within our Department of Special Education are granted the unique opportunity to participate in field experiences with both regular elementary programs and special education programs to ensure that he or she is well-equipped for his or her future teaching profession. This is done under our dual certification format. Additionally, students experience all elementary education work in addition to specialized MPH work.

Programmatic Structure

The Pennsylvania Department of Education has mandated a programmatic structure for students seeking special education certification beginning in 2013. New credentialing guidelines stipulate students pursue a special education certification K-8 or 7-12. Additionally, all candidates seeking either of the special education certifications must simultaneously obtain at least one of the following certifications: PreK-4, 4-8 (middle level content area) or 7-12 (secondary content area). As of Fall 2009, the Department of Special Education will exclusively offer these new certification programs to all incoming freshman. Special education candidates seeking certification under the previous guidelines must complete their coursework and have all certification paperwork processed through PDE by December 31, 2012.