Special Education Programs
Teacher candidates at Elizabethtown have the option of gaining certification in special education in two distinct pathways – a four year dual certification program with PK-4 certification or a +1 master’s program.
Dual Certification Program
PK-4 ECE majors may select the dual special education certification baccalaureate program. Highlights of this program include intensive methods coursework in the junior and senior year in both general and special education and a “split” student teaching capstone – 8 weeks in general education and 8 weeks in special education. Upon graduation, students are eligible for certification in grades PK-4 and special education PK-12.
Master of Special Education (4+1 program)
Students currently enrolled in an undergraduate program with the Department of Education at Etown College are eligible for an accelerated Master’s program in Special Education. Students will complete their baccalaureate degree in a general education certification area in four years. Eligible students may then move to finish the special education requirements, including a research project (Graduate Seminar) and another semester of student teaching. The intensive student teaching supervision of the undergraduate program (weekly supervisory visits) will continue in the graduate program. Courses in the fifth year will be administered using a mixture of traditional, on-line, hybrid, and accelerated formats.
Candidates in the program will be exposed to opportunities for more advanced curricular study, more time and variety in the field (urban, suburban, rural, learning support, emotional support, inclusive, resource, and self-contained classrooms), enhanced quality of practice in the field, two full semesters of student teaching, and research and reflection about pedagogical best practices through seminar coursework.
Teacher candidates are regularly assessed (formative and summative) on Danielson’s Domains (Planning and Preparation, Classroom Environment, Instruction, and Professionalism) during field placements. Input is given from classroom professors, field supervisors, and cooperating teachers across these areas. In fact, student teachers are observed on a weekly basis by their supervisors. Our students graduate with a complex understanding of educational theory, an awareness and adherence to professional ethics, an ongoing commitment to professional development, and the ability to establish and maintain an equitable and purposeful learning environment for learners of all capacities.
Fall application deadline, November 15
Spring application deadline, April 15
To learn more about either of the advanced degrees offered through the Department of Education, schedule a visit to campus!