Graduate
Special Education
Graduate online programs in special education include Master of Education with Special Education (PK-12) Certification, Master of Education in Special Education, and Special Education (PK-12) Certification.
These programs are designed for:
• Adults with a bachelor's degree seeking to become a certified special education teacher
• Licensed teachers seeking to expand their certification areas or take an Act 48 course
• Educators seeking a master's degree in special education
• Special education teachers seeking to advance to a leadership role
- Program Length:
-
1.5 or 2 Years
- Tuition:
-
$516 Per Credit
- Study Format:
-
Online
- Credit Hours:
- 27-45
Achieve More With A Special Education Degree
Program Benefits
Take advantage of:
- Online coursework
- $516/credit tuition rate, aligned with the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education (PASSHE) institutions
- Rolling admissions
- Act 48 credits
Median Annual Wage
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for special education teachers in 2024 was $64,270.
Job Prospects
Graduates can pursue a variety of careers, including:
- Special education/learning support teacher
- Subject area teacher certified in Special Education (PK-12)
- Special education supervisor/director
Topics of Study
- Key disabilities
- Research-based practices in providing equitable and inclusive education to the students with special needs
- Technology to assist individuals with disabilities
- Special education law
- School law
- Research for educators
- Professional ethics
M.Ed. with Special Education Certification
Credit Hours: 45
Cost per Credit: $516
Transfer Credits Accepted: 6
Estimated Program Length: 2 years
M.Ed. in Special Education
Credit Hours: 33
Cost per Credit: $516
Transfer Credits Accepted: 6
Estimated Program Length: 2 years
Special Education Certification
Credit Hours: 27
Cost per Credit: $516
Transfer Credits Accepted: 6
Estimated Program Length: 1.5 years
- Application Instructions
51³Ô¹Ï uses the rolling admission process: that is, we continually accept and review applications. This provides an advantage of starting the program at your convenience.
How to apply for:
- Financing Your Education
- Graduate education tuition rate is aligned with the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education (PASSHE) institutions.
- Tuition payment plan and tuition deferment are available.
- For more information, visit alvernia.edu/ Financial Aid for a detailed overview of the process, including a link to complete the FAFSA application (fafsa.gov). AU Title IV Code: 003233.
- The Office of Student Financial Services is available to help with any questions you may have. Call 610-796-8201 or email: sfs@alvernia.edu.
- Accreditation
- The Special Education (PK-12) Certification Program is approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Education.
- 51³Ô¹Ï is an accredited institution and a member of the (MSCHE). MSCHE is an institutional accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.
Recent News
Nine Student Undergraduate Research Fellows Present Summer Projects
Faculty members provide mentorship and valuable experiential learning opportunity through annual SURF program
Penn Medicine named Alvernia's official sports medicine provider
Care provided at the Penn Medicine - Alvernia Medical and Counseling Center will expand to include specialized sports medicine expertise, strengthening a shared commitment to high‑quality, inclusive care for every student.
Remembering Polly Mathys
51³Ô¹Ï mourns the loss of Polly Mathys, a beloved educator, mentor, devoted supporter of Alvernia Athletics and the arts, and faithful steward of our Franciscan values.
