The special education supervisory program is a 15-credit sequence of course work (including a 3-credit internship). Upon satisfactory completion of this course work and internship, attainment and verification of five years of professional school experience in special education, and satisfactory achievement on assessments prescribed by PDE (currently Praxis test 10410), students will be recommended for PDE certification by the dean of the Penn State College of Education.

Course work covers topics such as:

• social and institutional settings for instructional supervision: functions, activities, and practices of supervision
• evidence-based practices in management of special education programs
• implementing evidence-based intervention practices
• planning and implementing staff development
• budget and program evaluation

Program Format

Penn State's special education supervisory program includes distance education courses that are offered via a combination of DVD and online components. Students are also required to complete an internship component (3 credits) that may be completed at the candidate's school district (public or private) with approval from the student's employer and a Penn State faculty adviser. Students in an internship will be supervised by a Penn State faculty member.

The courses are designed to be convenient and accessible for you as a working professional. No travel to campus is necessary, allowing you to study when and where you want. Communication and interaction with the instructors is maintained primarily through web-based message boards.