PENNSYLVANIA PRE-K-4 TEACHER CERTIFICATION

MASTER OF EDUCATION

PROGRAM (39 CREDITS)

PURPOSE

This post baccalaureate teacher certification program will prepare candidates for Pennsylvania public school teaching from grades prekindergarten through four, pending passing of the PA PreK-4 competency exam. Through comprehensive coursework that explores subject content, pedagogy, and professional skills from a Christian perspective, graduates will be prepared to teach all subjects in the early childhood and elementary public school setting. Individuals with baccalaureate degrees in fields other than education who wish to enter the teaching profession may do so through completion of this program.

The Master of Education leading to PK-4 teacher certification will be offered in online format in seven-week semesters in the fall, spring and summer. All courses and field experiences will be taught and supervised by UVF education faculty who are highly qualified in their area of instruction. The PK-4 Teacher Certification program culminates in 14 weeks of student teaching that will take place over two seven week semesters. Teacher candidates presently working as paraprofessionals in public school settings may complete some or all field experiences in that setting. Up to nine undergraduate credits that meet PA teaching competencies may be applied to this degree program if applicable. The PK-4 Teacher Certification program is designed to be completed in two to three years . Special Education PK-12 certification may be added with the addition of four 15 week online classes (12 credits) and with passing of special education competency exams. Based on student’s undergraduate transcript evaluation, undergraduate coursework or the equivalent in fine arts, history, and science may be required.

PROGRAM STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES

1. Communicate effectively, orally and in writing, for a diverse audience within educational settings.

2. Access, evaluate, and utilize current educational research and literature based on knowledge of best practices and academic standards.

3. Establish and maintain professional demeanor and relationships with students, colleagues, parents, and supervisors in educational settings.

4. Articulate a philosophy of education that is consistent with a Christian worldview and integrate Christian principles into professional practice.

5. Design, implement, and reflect upon instruction that is aligned with best practices and academic standards and that meets the educational needs of diverse learners.