This online program through Penn State World Campus is best suited for teachers and trainers who are interested in the integration of technology projects into their classrooms and want to advance their skills in the design, development, and implementation of technology-based learning experiences.
Students may also be interested in working toward additional certification from the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE). Students who complete the Penn State World Campus certificate can then work toward the PDE’s Instructional Technology Specialist (ITS) certificate with appropriate advance planning and recommendation from Penn State’s College of Education.
Persons interested in the PDE’s ITS certificate need to speak with the College of Education before registering for course work. To obtain this certification from the PDE, Act 34 and 151 clearances and additional forms, fees, tests, and course work are required.
Choose the Program That Is Right for You
Several program options that build upon each other are available for professionals in the field of educational technology and for educators who want to improve their use of technology in the classroom:
- Penn State certificate in educational technology integration
This is best suited for teachers and trainers interested in the integration of technology projects into their classrooms. View the curriculum.
With proper planning this certificate program can fulfill half of the requirements for both the master’s degree and the PDE’s ITS certificate.
With proper planning, plus a supervised internship, this master’s degree program can also meet the requirements for the PDE’s ITS certificate (additional fees, forms, and tests are required).
- Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) Instructional Technology Specialist (ITS) certificate
This is for professionals who directly influence classroom integration of technology. Candidates for the PDE’s ITS certificate are recommended by the College of Education after they complete a portfolio demonstrating their competencies in required areas. The skills and portfolios are developed in World Campus courses prescribed by the College of Education. Please note that this is not a Penn State certificate and requires Act 34 and 151 clearances and additional forms, fees, tests, and course work.
A Quality Program
This online program is offered by Penn State's College of Education, which is ranked by U.S. News & World Report as one of the nation's best graduate schools in education, and the courses are taught by the same renowned faculty who teach resident courses. Penn State will provide you with access to academic advisers, technical support, and other student services through Penn State World Campus, as well as online resources through Penn State's University Libraries system.
At the Convenience of Your Desktop
As you communicate daily with other dedicated, goal-oriented peers, you'll gain insights that you can apply to your job immediately. All courses will be accessible from any Internet connection, and you can fit your studies around your busy personal and professional schedules.
