Deaf and Hard of Hearing Education PK-12 Certification

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.

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.

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What Sets Our Program Apart

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • This endorsement doubles as a concentration option for students in the Special Education M.S. - Deaf and Hard of Hearing.

What Can You Do with a Deaf and Hard of Hearing Education Certificate?

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

Program Details

  • View required courses for this program in the academic catalog. Please contact us if you have any questions about the program curriculum.

    For additional information regarding whether SJU’s programs meet educational requirements for professional licensure/certification, please visit our disclosure page.

     

  • Tuition & Fees: Affordable tuition options start at $845 per credit hour.*

    *This rate applies to all students accepted by Saint Joseph’s University after June 1, 2023. Tuition and fee rates for students accepted prior to June 1, 2023 differ. Pricing does not include room and board, health insurance or any professional, clinical or transportation fees. Visit our tuition & fees page or contact us for more information.

    Financial Aid & Discount Eligibility: Financial aid and discount options may be available to you to help offset the cost of your degree. Explore your options on our financial aid page.

  • Graduate assistantships are offered on a limited basis. Please contact the program director for availability.

Admission Information

  • 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.

    • Apply online.
    • Submit official college transcripts from all colleges attended.
    • Submit a personal statement.
    • Submit resume.
    • Submit two letters of recommendation.

    Visit our graduate admission information page to learn more about admission requirements, key deadlines and how to submit your application.

  • Graduate applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. New students may enroll in courses during the fall, spring or summer semesters.

    Start Terms:

    1. Fall: August and October
    2. Spring: January and March
    3. Summer: May

  • If you’re applying as an international student, you must provide proof of English Language Proficiency and Certification of Finances along with your application. Check the graduate admission page for additional requirements.

  • SJU is a Yellow Ribbon School that accepts GI education benefits. Our Office of Veterans’ Services can help you access and understand your benefits.

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Although research supports social-emotional learning (SEL) programs as a core curriculum component, it's rare for teachers to have the formal training needed to seamlessly help children develop these skills in tandem with academic learning. To prepare for the barriers your students may face and support their growth, you need to add to your own skillset, which is why earning a certificate in Social, Emotional and Behavioral Wellness (SEBW) of PK-12 students can be so beneficial.

Autism Spectrum Disorder Certificate

Today, there is a greater understanding of the specific needs of individuals with ASD, driving a need for professionals with expertise in research and best practices related to teaching and caring for them. To meet this expanding need, Saint Joseph’s University offers a four-course Autism Spectrum Disorder Certificate that prepares students to assist and empower members of this population.

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