Special Education

This program could be as many as 10 courses (3-credit hours each) or it may be fewer. Individuals, who received their certification prior to 2012, will most likely require the 10 courses. Those who received their certification in 2012 or after, will require seven courses (this will be confirmed using transcripts). You can learn about the required courses by visiting our website.

This program is offered in online and face-to-face formats. Once you choose a program, you must take classes in that format only.

The program can be completed at a rate of two classes per semester, including two classes over the summer; however, candidates may choose to take only one class per semester.

No. We offer a modified student teaching course that is offered in Summer II each year. It is a 3-credit course in which the candidate completes required assignments and teaches lessons. We have structured it around local Extended School Year programs.

We offer rolling admissions, so candidates can apply at any time.

Candidates will be provided with an Approved Program of Study (APS), which will guide the coursework for the certification.

This is a graduate program, and tuition costs can be found by visiting the bursar’s page.

In Pennsylvania, teachers must hold a certification in a general education content area (e.g., PreK - 4, middle grades, secondary math or English, Health and PE, Music, etc.) in order to hold a special education certification. West Chester University offers post-baccalaureate certification programs in general education as well as special education, so students could dual enroll in both programs. This route requires a full semester of student teaching at the conclusion of both programs.

Yes, you can still apply, but it is important to know that the M.Ed. in Special Education does not lead to a Level I teaching certification.

No, this degree program does not lead to Special Education certification. To obtain certification, you must enroll in the Special Education post-baccalaureate certification program.

Courses in this program are offered at a rate of two, sometimes three, per semester, including summers, and there are 11 required courses. Students can complete the program in about two years.