The mission of the Department of Instruction and Learning is to provide regional, national, and international leadership in the study and improvement of teaching and learning in diverse educational settings. As part of its effort to carry out this mission, the department offers commonwealth teacher education certification and degree programs.

The department offers the MAT, MEd, MS, EdD, and PhD degrees in instruction and learning as well as various certifications. It has six general areas of study:

• An area of concentration in cognitive studies
• An area of concentration in early childhood education
• An area of concentration in elementary education
• An area of concentration in reading education
• Secondary education certification and areas of concentration in:
  • Early childhood education
  • Elementary education
  • Reading education
  • English and communications education
  • Mathematics education
  • Science education
  • Social studies education
  • Foreign language education
• Special education certification and areas of concentration in:
  • Education of deaf and hard of hearing
  • Early intervention special education
  • Severe disabilities special education
  • Vision studies special education
  • Special education (general)

A brief section for each of these areas follows. In each section, a link to the program’s Web site is provided. Readers interested in a specific program are encouraged to visit that program’s Web site for more detailed information. Of special importance is the information provided on prerequisites and the curriculum.

Many programs permit considerable latitude in designing plans of studies that will both fulfill degree and program requirements and reflect the interests of the student.

Admission

Admissions Information

Application for Admission

Applicants for admission to any of the programs in the Department of Instruction and Learning must submit their application materials to the University of Pittsburgh, Student Service Center, 5500 Wesley W. Posvar Hall, Pittsburgh, PA  15260 or telephone 412-648-2230.

Cognitive Studies Program (Area of Concentration)

Contact Information

Program Coordinator

Cognitive Studies

Department of Instruction and Learning

5300 Wesley W. Posvar Hall

412-624-7254  

Fax: 412-648-7081

E-mail: dil@pitt.edu

www.education.pitt.edu/programs/cognitive

The program is designed to produce scholars in the field of education who will be able to make substantive contributions to the growing cognitive science of education. The program seeks to produce competent researchers and reflective scholars who will contribute to the continuing development of a science of education by generating new information about the processes of knowledge acquisition and transmission associated with specific content areas.

Cognitive studies is a program that uniquely combines the theoretical disciplines of cognitive science (anthropology, cognitive psychology, linguistics, computer science, and philosophy) with school subject matter areas such as history, English, mathematics, biology, foreign languages, and physics. The program emphasizes not only a tailored program of study designed to complement the student's prior academic background and knowledge but also a carefully orchestrated set of apprenticeship experiences with acknowledged scholars and researchers who are actively engaged in building a cognitive science of education.

The cognitive studies program is offered in conjunction with the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Instruction and Learning.

Early Childhood Education Program (Area of Concentration)

Contact Information

Program Coordinator

Early Childhood Education

Department of Instruction and Learning

5300 Wesley W. Posvar Hall

412-624-7254  

Fax: 412-648-7081

E-mail: dil@pitt.edu

www.education.pitt.edu/programs/earlychilded

The Early Childhood Education Program prepares students to teach young children (birth to age 8) and to work collaboratively with their families and other professionals. Students develop skills for employment in public and private schools, centers, homes, and other facilities in which children within this age range and their families are served.

Degree and Certification Options and Requirements

For additional degree requirement information for the following degrees, refer to the school section on Master’s Degree Requirements or Doctoral Degree Requirements.

This program offers the Master of Education (MEd) in Instruction and Learning with specializations (areas of concentration) and certification options as described below:

Certification in Early Childhood Education

This post-baccalaureate program is intended for individuals who have undergraduate backgrounds in speech, psychology, child development, or other related fields of study who wish to pursue careers as early childhood educators.

Students complete a 33-credit-hour program beyond 12 hours of prerequisite course work. A comprehensive examination is also required. Students completing the program are eligible for Pennsylvania Instructional I Certification in Early Childhood Education.

Master of Education Degree (Early Childhood Education)

The program is intended for individuals who already have early childhood education certification or whose career paths do not require them to have certification. Individuals who complete the post-baccalaureate Early Childhood Education Certification program at the University of Pittsburgh may apply up to 18 credits from their certification studies toward the master of education program. (Application to the MEd program must be made within three years of completing the certification program.) Course work in the master of education program is intended to enhance the continuing professional development of early childhood teachers beyond the skills and competencies acquired during certification study and to assist them in gaining greater self-determination through heightened awareness and understanding of their own teaching practice. Students complete a minimum 36-credit-hour program beyond 12 hours of prerequisite course work.

Master of Education (Early Intervention Special Education) and Certification in Early Childhood Education

Students in this option combine certification in early childhood education (see above) with a master of education program in early intervention special education.

Students complete a minimum of 61 credit hours beyond 12 hours of prerequisite course work.

Elementary Education Program (Area of Concentration)

Contact Information

Program Coordinator

Elementary Education

Department of Instruction and Learning

5300 Wesley W. Posvar Hall

412-624-7254   

Fax: 412-648-7081

E-mail: dil@pitt.edu

www.education.pitt.edu/programs/elementaryed

The Elementary Education Program offers a Professional Year certification or an area of concentration in the Master of Arts in Teaching degree. It also offers a Master of Education degree intended for (a) graduates of undergraduate education programs; (b) the department's own Professional Year students who wish to complete a master's degree; and (c) individuals who want to undertake advanced studies in elementary education.

Degree and Certification Options and Requirements

For additional degree requirement information for the following degrees, refer to the school section on Master’s Degree Requirements or Doctoral Degree Requirements.

This program offers the following degrees in Instruction and Learning with a specialization (area of concentration) in Elementary Education and certification options as noted below:

• Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT)
• Master of Education (MEd)

Initial Teacher Certification (Professional Year [PY] Program)

The Professional Year program is a two-semester course of study leading to initial certification in elementary education. Applicants are expected to have a bachelor's degree and a background in arts, humanities, natural sciences, and social sciences prior to admission. Professional Year students may apply up to 18 credits from the certification program toward the MEd. Application to the MEd program may be made upon completion of the certification program.

Master of Arts in Teaching Degree

The Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) program is a 15-month, full-time program leading to initial certification and a master's degree. A minimum of 45 credits is required. Applicants must have a bachelor's degree and are expected to have completed all prerequisite courses prior to entering the program. Students carry out an elementary internship assignment for the academic year.

Master of Education Degree

The MEd is a 36-credit program specializing in elementary education. Applicants are required to have a 3.00 undergraduate GPA and to be certified in elementary education.

Reading Education Program (Area of Concentration)

Contact Information

Program Coordinator

Reading Education

Department of Instruction and Learning

5300 Wesley W. Posvar Hall

412-624-7254   

Fax: 412-648-7081

E-mail: dil@pitt.edu

www.education.pitt.edu/programs/readinged

Graduate work in reading Education is available to individuals interested in working toward reading specialist certification, college reading/adult literacy specialization, a Master of Education, reading supervision certification, and doctoral degrees. Each of these options is detailed below:

Degree and Certification Options and Requirements

For additional degree requirement information for the following degrees, refer to the school section on Master’s Degree Requirements or Doctoral Degree Requirements.

This program offers the following degrees in instruction and learning with an area of concentration in reading education and certification and specialization options as noted below:

• Master of Education (MEd)
• Doctor of Education (EdD)
• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Reading Specialist K–12 Commonwealth Certification

It is recommended that applicants have an initial teaching certificate and some teaching experience. A minimum of 24 credits is required.

Reading Specialist K–12 Commonwealth Certification and a Master of Education Degree

It is recommended that applicants have an initial teaching certificate and some teaching experience. A minimum of 39 credits is required for the certificate plus Master of Education option.

College Reading/Adult Literacy Specialization

This program focuses on reading and writing instruction for post-secondary learners. A minimum of 21 credits is required. A school certificate is awarded upon completion of this specialization.

College Reading/Adult Literacy Specialization and a Master of Education Degree

A minimum of 39 credits is required for the certification plus Master of Education option.

Master of Education Degree

Focuses on generalist work in reading education. A minimum of 36 credits is required.

Reading Supervisor Commonwealth Certification

Students entering this program must have completed a master's degree. Appropriate course work taken for the master's degree may be used to fulfill some prerequisite supervisory certification requirements. Eligibility for receipt of this certification requires a minimum of five years of teaching experience in the field. A minimum of 21 credits is required.

Doctor of Education Degree

Candidates are expected to focus on the application of theory and research to problems of teaching and learning in schools and related settings. Graduates are expected to have reasonable preparation in the instruction, learning, and research concepts that cut across disciplinary fields and reasonable depth in the research, theory, and instructional practice in at least one reading concentration.

Doctor of Philosophy Degree

Candidates are expected to develop a sound grounding in current research and theory in reading, an understanding of the historical and philosophical issues that have influenced work in reading education, and advanced-level knowledge in the academic disciplines that support their profession.

Secondary Education Area of Study

The secondary education area of study offers five areas of concentration:

• English and Communications Education
• Mathematics Education
• Science Education
• Social Studies Education
• Foreign Language Education

Within each of these concentrations the student can choose to pursue Professional Year (PY) certification/specialization and master’s and doctoral degrees in instruction and learning as described below:

English and Communications Education (Area of Concentration)

Contact Information

Specialization Coordinator

English and Communications Education

Department of Instruction and Learning

5300 Wesley W. Posvar Hall

412-624-7254  

Fax: 412-648-7081

E-mail: dil@pitt.edu

www.education.pitt.edu/programs/secondaryed

Graduate work in English and communications education is available to individuals interested in working toward:

1. English/Communications certification for grades seven through 12
2. English/Communications certification for grades seven through 12 and the Master of Arts in Teaching degree
3. The Master of Education degree
4. The PhD degree
5. The EdD degree

Degree and Certification Options and Requirements

For additional degree requirement information for the following degrees, refer to the school section on Master’s Degree Requirements or Doctoral Degree Requirements.

This program offers the following degrees in instruction and learning with an area of concentration in English and communications education and certification options as noted below:

• Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT)
• Master of Education (MEd)
• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
• Doctor of Education (EdD)

Initial Teacher Certification (Professional Year [PY] Program)

This option provides qualified liberal arts graduates with the opportunity to obtain initial teacher certification in English and communications for grades seven through 12. This option is for applicants who have completed, or who can complete, prerequisite course work before beginning the Professional Year and who have at least a 3.00 GPA. Students complete a minimum of 30 credits beyond the prerequisite course work.

Master of Arts in Teaching Degree

This option provides teacher certification for qualified liberal arts graduates who want to coordinate certification study with advanced studies for a master's degree. Applicants must have completed, or must be able to complete, prerequisite course work before beginning the MAT studies. Applicants must have at least a 3.00 GPA. Students complete a minimum of 45 credits beyond the prerequisite course work.

Master of Education Degree

This degree is a professional degree for the graduate student who wishes to pursue advanced study in the field. Students complete a minimum of 36 credits.

Doctor of Philosophy Degree

Research for the PhD should focus on the study of basic problems in the teaching and learning of English/communications. PhD candidates are expected to develop a grounding in current research and theory in their specialized field. The degree requires a minimum of 90 credits and a dissertation.

Doctor of Education Degree

The EdD degree in this field prepares scholar-practitioners to provide leadership in curriculum and instructional design, teaching and staff development, learning and adapting to individual differences, and/or the use of instructional technology in school-based and college-level settings. The degree requires a minimum of 90 credits and a dissertation.

Mathematics Education (Area of Concentration)

Contact Information

Specialization Coordinator

Department of Instruction and Learning

5300 Wesley W. Posvar Hall

412-624-7454 

Fax:  412-648-7081

Email: dil@pitt.edu

www.education.pitt.edu/programs/secondaryed

This program offers the following degrees in instruction and learning with an area of concentration in mathematics education and secondary school teacher education certification as detailed below:

• Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT)
• Master of Education (MEd)
• Doctor of Education (EdD)

Degree and Certification Options and Requirements

For additional degree requirement information for the following degrees, refer to the school section on Master’s Degree Requirements or Doctoral Degree Requirements.

Initial Teacher Certification (Professional Year [PY] Program)

The PY certification-only option provides qualified mathematics area graduates with the opportunity to obtain initial teacher certification in middle and secondary mathematics, grades seven through 12. This option is intended for applicants who have completed or will be able to complete prerequisite course work before beginning the PY sequence. Students complete a minimum of 30 credits beyond the prerequisite course work.

Master of Arts in Teaching Degree

The Master of Arts in Teaching option provides comprehensive teacher preparation for qualified mathematics area graduates who want to coordinate certification study with advanced-level studies in education. Applicants must have completed, or be able to complete, prerequisite academic course work before beginning MAT studies. Students complete a minimum of 48 credits beyond the prerequisite course work.

Master of Education Degree

The MEd degree in this field is a professional degree for the graduate student who wishes to pursue advanced study in the field. In addition to addressing the needs and interests of beginning and experienced teachers whose objective is to advance their backgrounds as mathematics teachers in schools, the master's degree also prepares students for admission to doctoral study. Students complete a minimum of 36 credits.

Doctor of Education Degree 

The EdD degree in this field emphasizes the development of scholarly attainment in the theory, research, and practice of mathematics education. Doctoral candidates are expected to focus on current research and theory in mathematics education, historical and philosophical issues that have influenced work in mathematics education, and the application of theory and research to the teaching and learning of mathematics in schools and related settings. Students pursuing the EdD in mathematics education are expected to have a strong background in mathematics appropriate for their focus of study.

Science Education (Area of Concentration)

Contact Information

Specialization Coordinator

Science Education

Department of Instruction and Learning

5300 Wesley W. Posvar Hall

412-624-7254 

Fax: 412-648-7081

E-mail: dil@pitt.edu

www.education.pitt.edu/programs/secondaryed

The School of Education offers innovative graduate-level degree and certification options (biology, chemistry, earth and space science, general science, and physics) for science area majors interested in careers in teaching. The certification options in science education prepare the candidate for teaching assignments in grades seven through 12.

This program offers the following degrees in instruction and learning with an area of concentration in science education and certification programs as defined below:

• Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT)
• Master of Education (MEd)
• Master of Science (MS)
• Doctor of Education (EdD)
• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Degree and Certification Options and Requirements

For additional degree requirement information for the following degrees, refer to the school section on Master’s Degree Requirements or Doctoral Degree Requirements.

Initial Teacher Certification (Professional Year [PY] Program)

This option provides qualified science and science-related graduates with the opportunity to obtain initial teacher certification in a science area. This option is intended for applicants who have completed or will be able to complete prerequisites, before beginning the Professional Year sequence. The Professional Year sequence is an intensive immersion in the study and practice of teaching science to middle school and secondary school students. For certification, students must complete 30 minimum total credits.

Science Certification for Experienced Scientists

The specialization also offers a special certification-only option for experienced scientists who seek a new career in science teaching. Part-time study is permitted and a semester of full-time student teaching is required for such persons.

Master of Arts in Teaching Degree

This option provides a comprehensive teacher preparation program for qualified science area graduates who want to coordinate certification study with advanced-level studies in education. Applicants must have completed or be able to complete prerequisite academic course work before beginning MAT studies. This 48-credit program for full-time students begins in June and extends through August of the following year.

Master of Education Degree

The elementary science education specialization prepares teachers already certified in elementary education to become science specialists in elementary schools. The secondary science education specialization is designed to meet the needs of practicing science teachers and other science educators, such as intermediate unit personnel and museum or science center directors.

The goals of both specializations are to raise the professional performance of practicing teachers, to enhance their school science faculty leadership potential, to review their knowledge of their science field(s), and to broaden their understanding of science education theory and practices. This option requires a minimum of 39 credits.

Master of Science Degree

This degree is appropriate for secondary science teachers and elementary teachers with especially strong backgrounds in science fields with the equivalent of a major in one field. Students who matriculate in this specialization are expected to continue studies to obtain a doctoral degree. This 39-minimum-credit option focuses on major field, natural science, and historical foundations of science education. A thesis is required.

Doctor of Education Degree

This area of concentration is designed to prepare (a) professors of science in application-oriented colleges or universities, (b) faculty responsible for the preparation of teachers of science in those institutions, or (c) science curriculum and instruction leaders in either elementary or secondary science education settings.

Doctor of Philosophy Degree

Students enroll in this degree area of concentration to become science education professors in research-oriented universities. They will teach science courses and/or guide the preparation of elementary and/or secondary school science teachers, conduct research and development projects, and serve as a graduate faculty member in those types of institutions.

Social Studies Education (Area of Concentration)

Contact Information

Specialization Coordinator

Social Studies Education

Department of Instruction and Learning

5300 Wesley W. Posvar Hall

412-624-7254

Fax: 412-648-7081

E-mail: dil@pitt.edu

www.education.pitt.edu/programs/secondaryed

The social studies education concentration offers courses of study leading to certification for grades seven through 12 and master's and doctoral degrees.

Degree and Certification Options and Requirements

For additional degree requirement information for the following degrees, refer to the school section on Master’s Degree Requirements or Doctoral Degree Requirements.

This program offers the following degrees in instruction and learning with an area of concentration in social studies education and certification options as defined below:

• Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT)
• Master of Education (MEd)
• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
• Doctor of Education (EdD)

Initial Teacher Certification (Professional Year [PY] Program)

This option provides qualified graduates in the social science disciplines (to include anthropology, economics, geography, history, political science, psychology, sociology) with the opportunity to obtain Instructional I teacher certification in social studies education for grades seven through 12. All applicants are required to have completed 30 credits in one of the above social science disciplines, another 24 credits across the other six disciplines, and nine credits of educational prerequisites. The 30-credit PY option extends across the regular academic year and includes a three-credit field practicum during the fall term and a nine-credit student teaching experience during the spring term.

Master of Arts in Teaching Degree

This option provides qualified graduates in the social science disciplines with the opportunity to obtain Instructional I teacher certification in social studies education for grades seven through 12 and the MAT degree. All applicants are required to have completed 30 credits in one of the social science disciplines along with another 24 credits across the other six disciplines. The MAT option requires 45–48 credits, including nine internship credits. The internship involves the placement of the student in a secondary school setting for the entire academic year of the respective school site.

Master of Education Degree

The MEd option is a professional degree in education for the graduate student who chooses to pursue advanced study in social studies education. All MEd students who enter have obtained Instructional I teacher certification and can undertake courses leading to Instructional II teacher certification in social studies. This option requires 36 credits of specialized study in social studies, of which 18 credits of Professional Year graduate study toward teacher certification can be included.

Doctor of Philosophy Degree

The PhD in this field should focus on the study of basic problems in the teaching and learning of social studies at the secondary school level. The degree requires a minimum of 90 credits and a dissertation.

Doctor of Education Degree

The EdD option in this field prepares scholar-practitioners as educational leaders in curriculum and instructional design as well as teaching and staff development in school-based settings. The degree requires a minimum of 90 credits and a dissertation.

Foreign Language Education (Area of Concentration)

Contact Information

Specialization Coordinator

Foreign Language Education

Department of Instruction and Learning

5300 Wesley W. Posvar Hall

412-624-7254   

Fax: 412-648-7081

E-mail: dil@pitt.edu

www.education.pitt.edu/programs/secondaryed

Graduate work in the foreign language education area of concentration is available to qualified persons interested in pursuing K-12 Instructional I certification in French, Spanish, German, Latin, Chinese, Japanese, Italian, or Russian, or dual certification in a foreign language and elementary education.

The following degrees in instruction and learning with an area of concentration in foreign language education and the certification options are defined below:

• Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT)
• Master of Education (MEd)
• Master of Education (MEd) and a University Certificate in the Teaching of English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL)
• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) 
• Doctor of Education (EdD)

Degree and Certification Options and Requirements

For additional degree requirement information for the following degrees, refer to the school section on Master’s Degree Requirements or Doctoral Degree Requirements.

Initial Teacher Certification (Professional Year [PY] Program)

The Professional Year is available to graduates who have majored in a foreign language (or who have successfully completed the necessary prerequisite courses in a foreign language to meet content standards) and who have completed the prerequisite courses in education. Native speakers of the language of certification are not exempt from prerequisite course work in the culture, civilization, literature, and structure of their language. This Professional Year option consists of 30 credit hours of full-time work over two semesters. Successful completion of the program results in an initial teacher certification in a particular foreign language for teaching in kindergarten through 12th grade. In some cases, the Professional Year in foreign language education may be completed on a part-time basis. Applicants who are non-native speakers of the language of certification are also required to submit results of an oral proficiency interview by an individual certified by the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages. A rating of "advanced" or higher on the oral proficiency scale is expected.

Dual Certification in a Foreign Language and Elementary Education

For qualified individuals who have met necessary prerequisite courses for certification in a foreign language and for certification in elementary education, a dual certification specialization in a foreign language and in elementary education is available. All requirements of the Professional Year apply to this option.

Master of Arts in Teaching Degree

The Master of Arts in Teaching degree is available for qualified liberal arts graduates who want to combine initial teacher certification in a particular foreign language with advanced study for a master's degree. Applicants must have completed, or must be able to complete, prerequisite course work before beginning the MAT. Native speakers of the language of certification are not exempt from prerequisite course work in the culture, civilization, literature, and structure of their language. Students complete a minimum of 45 credit hours in addition to the course Introduction to Foreign Language Education. Individuals interested in the MAT commit to a full calendar year of study. Applicants who are non-native speakers of the language of certification are also required to submit results of an oral proficiency interview by an individual certified by the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages. A rating of "advanced" or higher on the oral proficiency scale is expected.

Master of Education Degree

The MEd degree in this field is a professional degree for individuals wishing to pursue advanced study in the field of teaching and learning foreign languages combined with trends, issues, and research in education in general. This option is tailored to the needs of practicing or returning foreign language teachers who wish to learn about recent developments in the field of foreign language education. This degree is also suitable for international students who wish to learn more about foreign language instruction (e.g., English as a foreign language) in their home countries. Some course work in a particular foreign language at the graduate level is also possible within this option. This option does not provide courses or clinical experiences for initial teacher certification. The degree consists of a minimum of 36 credit hours and may be completed on a part-time basis. Credits earned while pursuing the MEd from an approved graduate study-abroad program may be counted toward this degree. International students are required to provide proof of English language proficiency at the time of application by a score of 600 or higher on the TOEFL test or by having earned a degree from an English-speaking university.

Master of Education Degree with TESOL Certificate

This option permits qualified individuals for the MEd with a concentration in foreign language education to apply to the Department of Linguistics for admission to the University of Pittsburgh for certification in the Teaching of English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL). If accepted, students combine course work for the MEd in foreign language education with required courses for the TESOL certificate. Students complete a minimum of 37 credits in this combined specialization. The University of Pittsburgh TESOL certificate is not to be confused with state certification for teaching in the public elementary or secondary schools. The degree is ideal for individuals seeking positions as English language teachers in other countries or in university English Language Institutes. International students are required to provide proof of English language proficiency at the time of application by a score of 600 (250 on the computer-based test) or higher on the TOEFL test or by having earned a degree from an English-speaking university.

Doctor of Philosophy Degree

The PhD in this field is a research degree focusing on issues of classroom-based foreign language/ESL learning and teaching in school or college settings. This degree should not be confused with doctoral degrees in foreign language literature or civilization, formal second language acquisition, or other linguistic sciences. As part of the degree, students are expected to take graduate courses in other disciplines, for example, foreign languages, linguistics, and cognitive psychology. Although not required, three years or more of pre-college foreign language teaching experience is strongly encouraged before beginning. International students are required to provide proof of English language proficiency at the time of application by a score of 600 (250 on the computer-based test) or higher on the TOEFL test or by having earned a degree from an accredited institution in the United States. The degree requires a minimum of 90 credits and a dissertation.

Doctor of Education Degree

The EdD in this field prepares scholar-practitioners to provide leadership in curriculum development and instructional design, teacher and staff development, foreign language program innovation and evaluation, and instructional technology in school or college settings. This degree should not be confused with advanced degrees in foreign language literature or civilization or in the linguistic sciences. As part of the degree, students are expected to take graduate courses in other disciplines, for example, foreign languages, linguistics, teacher development, and instructional design and technology. Although not required, three years or more of pre-college foreign language teaching experience is strongly encouraged before beginning. International students are required to provide proof of English language proficiency at the time of application by a score of 600 (250 on the computer-based text) or higher on the TOEFL test or by having earned a degree from an accredited institution in the United States. The degree requires a minimum of 90 credits and a dissertation.

Special Education Area of Study

The special education area of study within the Department of Instruction and Learning offers a variety of graduate study opportunities to individuals whose career goals include working with people with disabilities.

A master's degree (MEd) in instruction and learning is offered in each of the program's areas of concentration:

• Education of Deaf and Hard of Hearing
• Early Intervention Special Education
• Education of Mentally and Physically Disabled
• Special Education (General)
• Vision Studies Special Education

Work toward graduate degrees may be combined with teacher certification study in deaf and hard-of-hearing students, mentally/physically disabled, and vision studies. The areas of concentrations include academic and field work for full-time or equivalent part-time study. Field work appropriate to the individual areas is carried out at cooperating schools, agencies, and clinics in Western Pennsylvania.

The program also offers courses of study leading to eligibility for certification as supervisor of special education. At the doctoral level, the program provides opportunities for specialization studies with a particular emphasis on learning disabilities, deaf and hard-of-hearing, vision studies, orientation and mobility, or early intervention.

Degree and Certification Options and Requirements

For additional degree requirement information for the following degrees, refer to the school section on Master’s Degree Requirements or Doctoral Degree Requirements.

Supervisor of Special Education Certification

This certification option in special education is built on the assumption that most supervisory operations in education are, in principle, generic, with their fundamentals of theory and practice in common. The major distinguishing characteristic of this option is the application of supervisory theory to the context of the special education of exceptional children and youth. Specific emphasis is placed upon activities, relationships, facilities, agencies, persons, and processes that are peculiar to or have particular relevance to special education. The student completes a plan of studies encompassing such courses as supervision, curriculum development, current and legal issues in the specialization, and a supervision seminar associated with the internship.

Doctoral Degrees in the Special Education Area of Study

The major goal of the special education PhD and EdD degrees is the preparation of leadership personnel. Graduates must have leadership skills to identify the significant issues of the day and the ability to make decisions about the most effective use of new technologies and information to serve the nation's disabled population. They will also become researchers and scholars committed to furthering the knowledge and empirical base needed for enhancement of special education practice and of the training of special education personnel. Graduates will serve infants, children, youth, and adults with disabilities through roles as teacher educators, researchers, administrators, consultants, and supervisors. Students complete either a PhD or EdD with a particular emphasis in one of the concentrations. As they have in the past, graduates of this program will be expected to have a significant impact on the quality of educational opportunities for persons with disabilities by providing leadership for local education agencies, state educational agencies, private foundations and agencies, colleges, and universities. Both degrees require a minimum of 90 credits and a dissertation.

Education of Deaf and Hard of Hearing (Area of Concentration) 

Contact Information

Specialization Coordinator

Education of Deaf and Hard of Hearing

Department of Instruction and Learning

5300 Wesley W. Posvar Hall

412-624-7254  

Fax: 412-648-7081

E-mail: dil@pitt.edu

www.education.pitt.edu/programs/specialed

Graduate work in this concentration is available to:

1. people interested in becoming certified as a teacher of deaf and hard-of-hearing students, K-12;
2. people interested in becoming certified as a teacher of deaf and hard-of-hearing students, K-12, and also earning a Master of Education degree;
3. people already certified as teachers of deaf and hard-of-hearing students who wish to pursue an individualized Master of Education degree; and
4. people interested in working toward a PhD or EdD in special education with an emphasis in deafness.

The master's and certification options (1 and 2 above) prepare teachers to teach deaf/hard-of-hearing children and youth in residential, day class, resource room, and itinerant teaching settings. The program of study consists of core course work in education of deaf and hard-of-hearing students and practicum experiences including tutoring and student teaching in two placements. Prerequisites include a course in either introduction to hearing or introduction to audiology; a regular education course in the teaching of reading; Foundations of Special Education; and Sign Language I. These courses, which may be taken early if necessary, are part of the requirements for certification.

Degree and Certification Options and Requirements

For additional degree requirement information for the following degrees, refer to the school section on Master’s Degree Requirements.

Certification Option

This option is available for qualified liberal arts graduates who wish to become teachers of deaf and hard-of-hearing students. Completion of 48 credits of course work beyond the prerequisites makes the student eligible both for Pennsylvania legal certification (Teacher of the Hearing-Impaired K–12) and for professional certification by the Council of Education of the Deaf (CED) with an elementary endorsement. Students with a bachelor's degree in a content area who wish to earn an additional CED endorsement at the secondary level take an additional course in methods of teaching the content area and complete one of their student teaching placements with deaf/hard-of-hearing students at the secondary level. Students who wish to earn an additional CED endorsement for early childhood education take an additional course in early childhood education, and complete one of their student teaching placements in a preschool program for deaf/hard-of-hearing students.

Master of Education Degree

In addition to the prerequisites and core course work for certification, students complete 9 credits of master's-level courses in basic areas of education and a 3-credit research seminar in special education (60 credits in addition to prerequisites). Students who are already certified complete an individualized program of a minimum of 36 credits.

Early Intervention Special Education (Area of Concentration)

Contact Information

Specialization Coordinator

Early Intervention Special Education

Department of Instruction and Learning

5300 Wesley W. Posvar Hall

412-624-7254  

Fax: 412-648-7081

E-mail: dil@pitt.edu

www.education.pitt.edu/programs/specialed

This concentration prepares students to teach infants, toddlers, and preschoolers with disabilities from birth to 5 years of age in hospital, home, and center-based settings, to support families of these young children in decision-making and resource identification, and to collaborate with other professionals in service delivery. The degree and certification options are as follows:

Master of Education Degree

A hands-on, carefully supervised approach is used to assist students in developing competence in assessing young children with a variety of disabilities and planning, implementing, and evaluating educational programs for them. The specialization emphasizes the development of collaborative partnerships with families and collaborative relationships with other professionals in the delivery of services. Special consideration is given to preparing students to address the needs of young children with disabilities in community settings that are designed for the inclusion of all children. Course work and practicum experiences are based on best and recommended practices that have been researched and/or clinically recognized. The Council for Exceptional Children has accredited the specialization. Students complete a minimum of 40 credit hours beyond six hours of prerequisite course work.

Master of Education Degree with Commonwealth Certification in Early Childhood Education

Students in this option combine Certification in Early Childhood Education (preschool through grade three) and the Master of Education in Early Intervention. Students complete a minimum of 52 credit hours beyond 12 hours of prerequisite course work.

Master of Education Degree and Commonwealth Certification in Special Education

Students in this option combine certification in mental and physical disabilities (see specialization description below) with a Master of Education degree. Students complete a minimum of 62 credits with 6 credits of prerequisite courses.

Education of Mentally and Physically Disabled (Area of Concentration)

Contact Information

Specialization Coordinator

Education of Mentally and Physically Disabled

Department of Instruction and Learning

5300 Wesley W. Posvar Hall

412-624-7254 

Fax: 412-648-7081

E-mail: dil@pitt.edu

www.education.pitt.edu/programs/specialed

Graduate work in this concentration is available to (a) persons interested in working toward Pennsylvania non-categorical certification in mental and physical disabilities and (b) individuals interested in working toward certification and a Master of Education degree.

Degree and Certification Options and Requirements

For additional degree requirement information for the following degree, refer to the school section on Master’s Degree Requirements.

Commonwealth Certification

This option provides qualified applicants with the opportunity to obtain Pennsylvania teacher certification in mental and physical disabilities. This option is for the person who seeks the professional opportunity of serving as a certified teacher. Admission follows completion of an undergraduate degree and selected prerequisite courses including I&L 2500/1580 (Foundations of Special Education), three curriculum courses in regular education, preferably in the teaching of reading or language arts, an undergraduate course in teaching mathematics or I&L 2473 (Mathematics for Elementary Teachers), and a course in teaching social studies or in teaching science. Students complete a minimum of 33 credits beyond the prerequisite course work, including additional courses in special education curriculum and instructional methods, observation/practicum and professional seminars, teaching practicum in a variety of educational settings, and collaboration/consultation skills in general education.

Master of Education Degree

This option is a professional degree for graduate students who wish to pursue advanced study in the field. Individuals who wish to pursue this option complete 12 additional credits beyond certification course work. These credits include course work in the Basic Areas of Education (9 credits) and a Research Seminar course (3 credits).

Vision Studies Special Education (Area of Concentration)

Contact Information

Specialization Coordinator

Vision Studies Special Education

5300 Wesley W. Posvar Hall

412-624-7254 

Fax:  412-648-7081

E-mail:  dil@pitt.edu

www.education.pitt.edu/programs/specialed

The vision studies concentration prepares professionals to educate children and adults with visual disabilities. This specialization enables students to acquire dual certification as teachers of children with visual disabilities and/or as Orientation and Mobility (O&M) specialists with a Master of Education degree and provides the only opportunity for dual certification in this region of the United States. In addition, a component of the program provides the student with both didactic and clinical course work in early intervention with children who are blind and visually impaired. Teachers of children with visual disabilities provide instruction in educational placements that include public schools, resource rooms, and full-time classrooms for children with visual disabilities, or in approved private schools. Graduates provide specialized educational services as an itinerant teacher, a full-time classroom teacher, or a teacher consultant with children birth through age 21. O&M specialists provide necessary instruction to visually disabled children and adults to enable safe, independent travel. Training includes integrating skills such as orientation in space in conjunction with the use of a long cane, dog guide, or an optical or electronic device. Students in the vision studies specialization participate in both didactic and practicum experiences to gain a broad range of specialty skills.

Degree and Certification Options and Requirements

For additional degree requirement information for the following degree, refer to the school section on Master’s Degree Requirements.

The vision studies special education concentration offers the applicant a number of degree and certification options:

1. Commonwealth Certification in Vision Education
2. Commonwealth Certification in Orientation and Mobility (O&M)
3. Dual Certification in Vision Education and O&M
4. MEd in Instruction and Learning with Vision Education Certification
5. MEd in Instruction and Learning with O&M Certification
6. MEd with Dual Certification in Vision Education and O&M

Commonwealth Certification in Vision Education

The Pennsylvania Department of Education grants a certification as a teacher of children with visual disabilities, which is a recognized certification in most states. This option includes approximately 27 credits of both didactic and clinical coursework.

Certification in Orientation and Mobility

The Academy for Certification of Vision Rehabilitation and Education Professionals grants a professional certification in O&M that enables the graduate to provide O&M services to children and adults. This option includes approximately 24 credits of both didactic and clinical coursework.

Dual Certification in Vision Education and Orientation and Mobility

Holding dual certification as a teacher of children with visual disabilities and O&M specialist makes the vision studies specialization graduate more attractive to employers in public schools, private schools for the blind, and agencies that serve children or adults. This option includes approximately 39 credits of both didactic and clinical coursework.

Master of Education Degree

The Master of Education degree can be added to any of the options above with the completion of four courses or 12 credits of graduate-level course work in regular education.

Special Education—General (Area of Concentration)

Individually designed master’s degree specializations (36 credits minimum) are available for those students who hold Pennsylvania special education teaching certificates or for regular educators who just want to learn more about special education. These specializations are designed to accommodate individualized professional goals but do not provide students with special education certification. Students may also pursue study for other certifications and/or other specialized study.

Department of Instruction and Learning Course Listings