Special Education Certification - Cognitive, Behavior, Physical/Health Disabilities

The Special Education Program consists of five sequential courses and operates in conjunction with the Elementary, Music Education, or Secondary Education Programs. Students complete a full sequence of course work in their major in addition to their specialized course work in special education. Student teaching experiences are provided in two settings: one in the regular school setting and the second in a special education setting. Program graduates are certified to teach in regular elementary, music education, or secondary programs and in special education programs for students with mental retardation, physical disabilities, learning disabilities, behavior disorders, autism, orthopedic impairments, or multiple disabilities, grades K – 12.

Students pursuing special education certification must at the same time be seeking either elementary, music education, or secondary teacher certification. Special education certification cannot be taken apart from one of these other areas.

Post-baccalaureate candidates who already have a currently valid teaching certificate may apply for admission to the special education program. Each candidate's credentials will be reviewed on an individual basis to ensure adequate preparation for admission to the special education program.

Each course in the program includes mandatory weekly field experiences in a special education setting over the course of the entire semester. One-half of the student teaching semester will be completed in a special education setting.

Degree requirements:

There is no major in special education. Students complete the requirements in their majors and in the chosen area of certification relative to that major and the required courses in special education.

Lebanon Valley College is transitioning this program into a PreK-Grade 8 Special Education Major as defined by new PA State regulations.