What Can I Do with a Master's Degree in Special Education (Deaf and Hard of Hearing Concentration)?
Educators with a Special Education MS in Deaf and Hard of Hearing 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. Note: The State of Pennsylvania carries a reciprocity with many states
- Sign language interpreters who wish to become teachers of students who are deaf and hard of hearing
How Will Saint Joseph's University Prepare Me to Teach Students Who Are Deaf and Hard of Hearing?
If you hold a Level I Certification in early childhood, elementary, middle school or secondary education and wish to obtain a certification to teach in special education classrooms and programs, you may choose between two grade-level certifications, PK-8 or 7-12, both of which prepare you for Pennsylvania certification. Both classroom instruction and field placements offer you a rigorous and well-rounded curriculum addressing critical areas of special needs instruction.
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.
Additionally, the special education program at Saint Joseph’s University features an experienced faculty whose expertise in urban teaching, inclusive education and assistive technology provide a unique educational experience.