Social and emotional (SEL) learning is the process by which children and adults acquire the skills necessary for managing emotions, showing empathy, establishing and maintaining positive relationships, making responsible decisions, and setting and achieving positive goals. These skills must be practiced in social contexts, including classroom and school environments. This graduate certificate will prepare you to help students develop these skills.
Overview
Saint Joseph's University's Deaf and Hard of Hearing Education PK-12 Certification program is designed to serve those interested in the education of the 40 to 50% of children impacted by hearing loss.
What Is the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Education Certification?
The Deaf and Hard of Hearing Education PK-12 Certification program at Saint Joseph's University prepares educators for state certification and helps them acquire the competencies needed to support learning and development in children with hearing loss.
The full curriculum, which offers in-depth analyses regarding the education of deaf and hard of hearing students, can be completed in as little as two semesters (less than one year) or can be spread out to align with your schedule and goals. You'll also be required to complete field experience, allowing you to truly understand what it takes to work with deaf and hard of hearing students and jump into the workforce as soon as you graduate.
100% Online Deaf and Hard of Hearing Certification
Designed to meet the needs of working professionals in the field, the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Education PK-12 Certification is offered completely online. The certification may also be completed as a stand-alone option (30 credits) or combined with a master's degree, allowing students to earn a Master of Science in Special Education.
Who Should Apply?
Candidates are required to hold a bachelor's degree and are expected to have basic sign language competency. Additionally, this program is intended for individuals who have earned at least initial Standard/Level 1 certification or have equivalent experience in working with deaf or hard of hearing students.
What Can I Do with a Deaf and Hard of Hearing Education PK-12 Certification?
Educators with a Deaf and Hard of Hearing Education PK-12 Certificate go on to work for schools, education systems, healthcare facilities and other industries. Appropriate candidates for this program include:
- State-certified general education and special education teachers seeking an additional certification
- Professionals or paraprofessionals with a bachelor’s degree who are seeking initial certification (PK-12 option) and Pennsylvania Teacher of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing PK-12 certification as a teacher of students who are deaf and hard of hearing
- Related service personnel (e.g. speech/language pathologists, occupational therapists, physical therapists) who wish to become teachers of students who are deaf and hard of hearing
- Sign language interpreters who wish to become teachers of students who are deaf and hard of hearing
How Will a Deaf and Hard of Hearing Education PK-12 Certification from Saint Joseph's University Enhance My Career?
Throughout the program, you will learn to use the latest technologies used to facilitate meaningful and differentiated learning experiences for your students. You'll also come to understand how to communicate effectively with deaf and hard of hearing students. You’ll be encouraged to set goals related to improving your sign language and alternative communication skills.
At a Glance
Length |
Average part-time: 2 - 4 semesters, or 6 - 12 months. |
Credits | 30 credits. |
Start Terms |
Spring, summer or fall. |
Format |
Online. |
Tuition for 2022-2023 |
$812 per credit hour. Learn more about our tuition & fees. |
Stack this Certificate into a Master's Program | This endorsement doubles as a concentration option for students in the Special Education M.S. - Deaf and Hard of Hearing and Education M.S. for all grade levels (Early childhood/elementary PK-4; Elementary/Middle School Education; and Secondary 7-12). |
Potential Career Paths |
This certificate qualifies individuals in the following roles to teach deaf and hard of hearing students:
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Requirements |
You must have a bachelor’s degree and basic sign language competency. You must also have earned at least initial Standard/Level 1 certification or have equivalent experience in working with deaf or hard of hearing students. |
Admission Information |
To learn more about the admission process and required materials, Graduate Admission can provide more information or answer any questions. |
Financial Aid | Scholarships, federal and state grants, loans and other types of financial aid may be available to those who qualify. Our Office of Financial Aid can help you understand your options.**certificate. |
Discount Eligibility |
*note - discounts cannot be combined. |
Veterans |
Saint Joseph's is a Yellow Ribbon School that accepts GI education benefits. Our Office of Veterans Services can help you access and understand your benefits. |
For additional information regarding whether SJU’s programs meet educational requirements for professional licensure/certification, please visit https://www.sju.edu/disclosures.
Related Programs
Endorsed by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, the Autism Spectrum Disorder Endorsement program at Saint Joseph's features a curriculum that focuses on assessment and research-based strategies. The program places special emphasis on skill development and behavioral modification for students of all ages who have been diagnosed on the autism spectrum.