Secondary Education (7-12) Certification

Program Overview

La Salle University's Master's in Education program provides a comprehensive understanding of human development, exceptionalities, and teaching practices. Through project-based learning and community engagement, students develop the skills and knowledge necessary for careers in education, including administration, counseling, and teaching. The program offers dual certification in various areas, including elementary, secondary, and special education.

Program Outline

Outline:

Highlighted Courses:

• EDC 503 – Cognitive, Social, and Emotional Development: This course explores human development across the lifespan, focusing on physical, cognitive, psychosocial, emotional, and moral aspects.
Participants will explore learning and development theories in various contexts, including homes, schools, communities, workplaces, and individual, family, and peer interactions. Attention will be given to both typical and atypical developmental paths.
• EDC 510 – Human Exceptionalities: This course introduces the field of human exceptionalities, examining the psychological, medical, legal, and social factors influencing the provision of services for individuals with exceptionalities.
It clarifies perceptions of exceptionalities, defines and describes key terms and concepts, and identifies major trends affecting service provision.
• EDC 613 – The Role of the Developmentally Oriented Teacher: This course helps students apply child and adolescent development concepts to teaching practice.
It explores strategic instructional planning, teaching styles, presentation skills, cooperative learning, and classroom management systems.

Teaching:

• Teaching Methods: The program utilizes project-based, problem-based service learning and community engagement grounded in Lasallian values.
• Faculty: The courses are taught by experienced educators with years of experience in elementary, middle school, and secondary settings.
• Unique Approaches: The program offers an alternative to the traditional school-as-factory model, focusing on individualized learning and addressing the unique needs of each student.

Careers:

• Potential Career Paths: Graduates have explored careers as principals, district administrators, corporate trainers, education policy analysts, higher education professionals, nonprofit educational directors, childcare directors, school counselors, and career counselors.

Other:

• La Salle's Graduate Education department offers in-service continuing education for practicing teachers.
• The program offers dual certification in elementary, middle level, secondary, and special education.
• Certification is available in most secondary teaching areas, with add-on certifications in Instructional Coaching, Autism Spectrum Disorders, and Special Education.