Special Education Supervisory Certification (M.Ed. or Certification Only)
Lead with Purpose in Special Education Administration
East Stroudsburg University’s Special Education Supervisory Certification program is designed for educators who are ready to take on leadership roles and make a broader impact in schools, districts, or intermediate units. Whether you are seeking a standalone certification or wish to pursue a Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Special Education Supervision, this program prepares you to become an effective and ethical administrator in special education.
Tailored for certified teachers with five or more years of professional experience in special education or a related field, the program meets the requirements for Supervisor of Special Education certification through the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE). If you're looking for a graduate program in special education administration, this is a flexible, fully online pathway that allows you to grow professionally without putting your career on hold.
A Flexible, Online Program Built for Working Professionals
Our online special education leadership program offers asynchronous and accelerated course options to accommodate busy educators and administrators. Each candidate’s academic and professional background is evaluated upon admission to create a personalized course path. You’ll gain real-world experience through a 300-hour internship, which can be completed in your current workplace or an approved external setting.
Throughout the program, you will receive multi-tiered support as you prepare for certification exams, complete required fieldwork, and develop the skills needed to manage special education services at the building or district level.
Why ESU?
- Program holds accreditation by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP).
- Alignment with the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) teaching standards.
- Fully online, flexible format for working educators
- Expert faculty with real-world administrative experience
- Personalized program plans
- Embedded fieldwork that builds confidence and competence
- Access to professional organizations such as CEC and CASE
- High success rate on certification and leadership placements
What You’ll Learn
This school administrator certification in special education equips you with advanced knowledge in:
- Special education policy and legal compliance
- Program planning and instructional leadership
- Data-driven decision-making and assessment
- Supervision of instruction and staff development
- Ethical leadership and collaboration with families, educators, and communities
The curriculum aligns with Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) and Council of Administrators of Special Education (CASE) standards, ensuring your training meets the highest national benchmarks in the field.
Who Should Apply?
- Certified PK–12 educators with Instructional I or II certification in special education or related areas
- Teachers looking to transition into special education leadership certification roles
- Professionals seeking a graduate-level credential in education administration
- Individuals pursuing an M.Ed. in special education supervision with a clear leadership focus
Out-of-state educators may apply for Pennsylvania certification through the PDE once they meet the required criteria for reciprocity.
Your Leadership Career Starts Here
Graduates of this program are prepared to assume key leadership roles such as:
- Supervisor of Special Education
- Special Education Director or Administrator
- Educational Consultant
- Case Manager
- Behavior Support Coordinator
- Compliance Officer for Special Education Programs
You’ll be equipped to lead inclusive programs, mentor educators, and support students with disabilities across a variety of educational settings, including public schools, charter schools, intermediate units, and private institutions.
Accreditation & Standards Alignment
This program meets the highest standards in special education leadership preparation, including:
- Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP)
- Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE)
- Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) – Advanced Preparation Standards
- Council of Administrators of Special Education (CASE)
Take the next step in your career with ESU’s Special Education Supervisory Certification program—designed to help you lead, advocate, and innovate in today’s evolving educational landscape.
Contact Us
Campus Address
Stroud Hall 105
(570) 422-3558
Department Chair, Special Education & Rehabilitation
Dr. Gina Scala
gscala@esu.edu
(570) 422-3781




