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The program Early Childhood Education (ECE) B.A. with Grades PK-4 and Special Education (PK-12) Certifications expands teaching career prospects. The dual certification allows program graduates to work as:

elementary educators (preschool though Grade 4)
special education teachers and learning support specialists (preschool though Grade 12)

in public and private educational institutions.

This dual major unlocks an unlimited career potential by positioning prospective teachers to enter the field with competence and confidence.

As an early childhood educator, you lay the foundation for literacy and foster a love of learning in young children. As a special education teacher, you make education accessible for all students.

The program leads to a B.A. degree and the Pennsylvania Instructional Certificates Grades PK-4 and Special Education (PK-12). This teacher education program is approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE).

Experience a synergy of engaging student learning environment, diverse field experiences, enriching student teaching, and inspiring mentorship by education professors and PK-4 cooperating teachers.

PK-4 Program Mission

The PK-4 Program is built on a solid foundation of the principles of child development. It focuses on the whole child as it prepares highly-qualified, highly-effective candidates to meet the many and diverse needs of young children in a global society.

Special Education Program Mission

The Alvernia University Education Department, rooted in a proud Franciscan heritage, is dedicated to providing instruction in educational theory balanced with current best practices. The Special Education Program focuses on the high leverage practices of interdisciplinary collaboration and inclusivity within a legally and ethically responsible environment, designed to foster growth in all children and adolescents with identified learning needs in our schools today.