Graduate Certificate in Computer Science Education

Program Overview

The Graduate Certificate in Computer Science Education at Elizabethtown College equips in-service teachers with the skills and knowledge to pass the Pennsylvania Department of Education Computer Science Praxis exam and obtain the PDE Computer Science 7-12 Instructional Certificate. The 12-credit program is designed for working professionals and offers online asynchronous courses covering computer science principles, software development, and teaching methodologies. Graduates are prepared for careers as high school computer science teachers and other roles in computer science education.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Overview:

The Graduate Certificate in Computer Science Education at Elizabethtown College equips in-service teachers with the skills and knowledge necessary to pass the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) Computer Science Praxis exam and subsequently obtain the PDE Computer Science 7-12 Instructional Certificate. This certificate responds to the crescente demand for qualified computer science educators in Pennsylvania and beyond. The certificate coursework can be stacked into the institution's Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction program.

Objectives:

• Prepare teachers for certification in computer science education.
• Build a foundation in computing knowledge and skills.
• Develop teaching capabilities to effectively deliver computer science principles.

Outline:

Program Structure:

• 12-credit program.
• Requires 12 credit hours of completion.
• Designed for working professionals, with course offerings available fully online.

Course Schedule:

• Courses are offered through Etown's School of Graduate and Professional Studies (SGPS).
• Courses are delivered in an online asynchronous format, providing flexibility for working professionals.

Course Content:

• The program covers principles of computer science and software development through courses such as "Computer Science Curriculum and Pedagogy" and "Technology Integration in Computer Science Education."

Assessment:

Assessment Methods:

• Assignments and projects.
• Participation in discussions and online forums.
• Capstone project.

Assessment Criteria:

• Clarity of expression.
• Depth of knowledge application.
• Originality and creativity.
• Critical thinking skills.

Teaching:

Teaching Methods:

• Online asynchronous learning.
• Lectures, discussions, readings, and assignments.

Faculty:

• Experienced faculty with expertise in computer science and education.

Unique Approaches:

• The certificate program is tailored to help teachers meet the specific requirements of the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) Computer Science Praxis exam.
• The coursework can be applied toward the Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction program.
• The program is designed to enhance teachers' understanding of computer science and their ability to integrate it into their classrooms.

Careers:

Potential Career Paths:

• High school computer science teacher.
• Computer science curriculum specialist.
• Educational technology director.

Career Opportunities:

• The program prepares teachers for careers in computer science education at the high school level.
• With the increasing demand for computer science literacy, graduates will have ample opportunities to help shape the next generation of STEM professionals.