Post-Baccalaureate Certification in Special Education PreK-12

Post-Baccalaureate Certification in Special Education (PK–12)

Advance Your Impact with a Career in Special Education

East Stroudsburg University’s Post-Baccalaureate Special Education Certification program offers a flexible pathway for college graduates and working professionals who want to make a difference in the lives of students with diverse learning needs. Designed to meet the growing demand for PK–12 special education teacher certification, this program supports both career changers and current educators seeking additional qualifications.

Whether you’re a licensed teacher looking to expand your credentials, or a professional seeking a meaningful new career, this graduate-level special education training program equips you with the knowledge and skills to support students across all grade levels and disability categories.

A Personalized Certification Path

Before enrolling, each candidate undergoes a transcript and professional experience evaluation to tailor a customized plan toward certification. This post-baccalaureate special education certification program includes targeted coursework, mentorship, and extensive field experience aligned with Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) and national Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) standards.

Students benefit from:

• Flexible online course formats, including accelerated sessions for those balancing work and study
• Embedded mentorship and support for certification exam preparation
• A student teaching or supervised field experience that integrates with your current employment (when applicable)
• A clear, direct pathway to continue into ESU’s M.Ed. in Special Education if desired

Why ESU?

East Stroudsburg University’s Special Education programs are grounded in practical experience, expert instruction, and a deep commitment to inclusive education. As a student, you’ll benefit from:

• A faculty of experienced practitioners and certified special educators
• Program holds accreditation by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP)
• A strong network of partner schools offering immersive experiences with expert mentors
• Alignment with the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) teaching standards.
• Access to student organizations like the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) and Best Buddies
• A supportive learning environment tailored for adult learners

Who Should Apply?

This program is ideal for:

• Individuals with a bachelor's degree in any field who want to enter teaching through a teacher certification for career changers track to Special Education.
• Working educators interested in adding special education certification to their teaching license
• Professionals looking for a special education certification for working professionals that won’t disrupt their current schedule
• Candidates seeking an online special education certification program from an accredited institution with a strong track record in educator preparation

Career Readiness and Opportunities

Upon completion, you’ll be eligible to apply for Pennsylvania Instructional I Certification in Special Education (PK–12) and begin or advance your career as a:

• Special Education Teacher (PK–12)
• Learning Support Specialist
• Emotional or Behavioral Support Educator
• Autistic Support Teacher
• Instructional Coach or Co-Teacher

With strong reciprocity agreements, your certification may be transferable to other states depending on local licensure requirements.

Accreditation & Standards Alignment

This program meets the highest standards in special education teaching preparation, including:

• Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP)
• Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE)
• Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) – Advanced Preparation Standards

Whether you’re beginning your teaching journey or shifting careers, ESU’s Post-Baccalaureate Certification in Special Education PK–12 offers a trusted, flexible, and affordable pathway to become a licensed special educator.

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