Program Overview

Program Overview

The Secondary Education: English (Certification) program is designed to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to become certified English teachers. This program requires students to take a range of courses in the field of education, as well as demonstrate competency in various English content areas.

Program Requirements

• The English certification program requires students to take an array of courses in the field of education.
• Students must demonstrate competency in different English content areas: American and British literature, rhetoric, poetry, Shakespeare, and writing, speaking, and listening.
• English content competency must be demonstrated by taking and passing the PDE-required Praxis certification exam.
• Depending on degree held and background, additional English-related courses may also be required.
• All courses required for certification, including field experiences, must be completed with a grade of C or better prior to student teaching.

Program Notes

A minimum grade of C is required in all courses for certification; however, a 3.0 grade-point average is required to be eligible for student teaching.

Master's Degree Track

All post-baccalaureate candidates have the option of earning a Master of Education degree in Teaching and Curriculum while concurrently working toward Pennsylvania certification. Certification-required coursework is prioritized ahead of required M.Ed. program courses. EDUC 820 satisfies both programs’ requirements. Four certification-required courses (12 credits) satisfy the M.Ed. degree elective requirements.

Upon completion of certification program requirements, only 15 credits (5 courses) remain for completion of the M.Ed. degree program. Once certification coursework has been completed, there is no obligation to continue in the master’s degree program.

Teacher Education Programs

• Elementary Education (B.El.Ed.)
• English (B.Hum.)
• Mathematical Sciences (B.S.)
• Secondary Education Social Studies (B.Sosc.)
• Teaching and Curriculum (M.Ed.)
• Instructional Coach (Endorsement)
• Mathematics Coach (Endorsement)
• Reading Specialist (Certification)
• Secondary Education: English (Certification)
• Secondary Education: General Science (Certification)
• Secondary Education: Mathematics (Certification)
• Secondary Education: Social Studies (Certification)
• PK-12 Special Education (Certification)
• English as a Second Language (ESL) Program Specialist (Certification)
• Literacy Leadership (Certificate)
• Elementary Education (PK-4) (Certification)
• Elementary Education (4-8): English (Certification)
• Elementary Education (4-8): Mathematics (Certification)
• Elementary Education (4-8): Social Studies (Certification)