Become a PA-Certified Special Education Teacher Through an Innovative Program: Paraeducator with Associate to Bachelor Degree and Certification in Special Education
Luzerne Intermediate Unit (LIU18 ) in Partnership with Misericordia University
Listen to this podcast below to learn about our program:
*Price per credit may have changed since the recording of this podcast. Please see the website for current costs.
If you hold an Associate’s degree in any field, are currently working as a paraprofessional, and work in Pennsylvania, you now have the opportunity to earn a Bachelor’s degree and obtain PA certification in Special Education. This program is specifically designed to accommodate working paraeducators, by offering flexible, accelerated coursework at a reduced cost.
Program Highlights
- Eligibility: Open to paraeducators with an Associate’s degree in any field.
- Flexibility: Courses are delivered online with asynchronous options, allowing you to balance work and education.
- Competency-Based Learning: Paraeducators can leverage their professional experience to reduce their workload.
- Affordability: Benefit from reduced tuition rates offered through Luzerne Intermediate Unit and Misericordia University.
- Accelerated Pathway: Complete coursework efficiently, earning a Bachelor’s degree and a PA Instructional I teaching certificate in PK-12 Special Education.
Frequently Asked Questions
What will I earn upon completing the program?
You will earn a Bachelor’s Degree from Misericordia University and a PA Instructional I teaching certificate in PK-12 Special Education, qualifying you to teach special education in Pennsylvania public schools.
Do I need an Associate’s Degree in Education to apply?
No. While an Associate’s Degree in Education may reduce the number of required courses, this program accepts an Associate’s degree in any field.
Do I need to be currently employed as a paraprofessional?
Yes, you must be employed with an LEA in PA and remain a paraeducator while enrolled in this program.
What if I haven’t completed my Associate’s degree yet?
Applicants must have earned an Associate’s degree to be eligible for the program.
Can I continue working while completing the program?
Yes. The program is delivered entirely online and asynchronously, allowing students to study on their own schedules. LIU18 courses will include a competency-based option to leverage the experience gained while working in the classroom and provide a collaborative experience with the classroom teacher and paraeducator.
How do I apply?
Click on the “Program Admission” Tab on the left of this screen and complete the required paperwork.
Program Structure
- Part 1: Luzerne Intermediate Unit (LIU18)
- Take 39 accelerated credits at a tuition rate of $175 per credit.
- Each course runs for 7 weeks and is designed to fit within a one-year cycle.
- Part 2: Misericordia University
- Transition to Misericordia University to complete the remaining credits (approx. 41 credits, depending on your Associate’s degree).
- Tuition is $460 per credit, and student loan options are available.
Additional Information
Are there academic requirements to remain in the program?
Yes. You must maintain a GPA of 3.0 throughout the program. Courses with grades below “C” will need to be retaken.
Is financial aid available?
- Financial aid is not offered for the LIU18 portion due to the low tuition rates.
- Loan opportunities are available for the Misericordia University portion.
Can I receive credits for prior coursework or professional experience?
LIU18 coursework will be required for all participants. The majority of LIU18 courses will have an option for competency-based credit.
Will student teaching be required?
Yes. Student teaching is a required component of the program.
For more information, contact us at certificationprogram@liu18.org or call (570) 718-4631.