MEd in Special Education With Pennsylvania Certifications

A graduate degree and certification program from the Lehigh University College of Education

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Empowering Students of All Abilities to Thrive

Lehigh University’s Master of Education in Special Education equips educators with the skills, strategies, and compassion needed to support students with a wide range of learning, behavioral, emotional, and physical disabilities. The program prepares teachers to adapt instruction, foster independence, and promote academic and social growth across diverse classroom settings.

Students in the MEd program also have the opportunity to earn Pennsylvania teaching certifications, including options for Special Education PreK–12 and dual certifications in special and general education.

Guided by expert faculty and grounded in evidence-based practice, the program blends rigorous coursework with practical experience to prepare educators to meet the needs of all learners, and make a lasting difference in their lives.

Ready to take the next step toward advancing your career and expanding your impact? Request more information to learn how this degree and certification can help you achieve your goals.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Graduate Outcomes: College of Education

89%

of graduates from the program are employed, continuing education, or pursuing military or volunteer service

$62,000

average starting salary

Become a Special Education Teacher in PA
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Earn PDE Special Education Certifications

  • Special Education PreK-12 PA Teacher Certification
  • Special Education PreK-12 & General Education PreK-4 PA Teacher Certification
  • Special Education Pre-K12 & General Education 7-12 PA Teacher Certification
Why Lehigh

Why Lehigh?

At Lehigh, you’ll find the right balance of academic rigor, personal support, and practical experience that sets our Master’s in Special Education program apart.

A Campus Designed for Focus and Opportunity

Nestled in Pennsylvania’s scenic Lehigh Valley, our beautiful, serene campus provides the ideal setting to step away from daily distractions and fully commit to your studies. Located just a short drive from New York City and Philadelphia, students benefit from both a peaceful environment and access to major business hubs. With the Lehigh Valley’s own rapid growth and strong university connections to leading companies, schools, and nonprofits, you truly get the best of both worlds.

A Close-Knit Community

Small class sizes, accessible faculty, and a team focused on your career development mean you won’t just be another face in the crowd. You’ll form strong connections with professors, advisors, and peers who are invested in your success.

Learning With Real-World Impact

Giving master’s candidates the tools to support each child’s learning and growth is the mission of our MEd in Special Education. To that end, students engage in coursework to become skilled practitioners in establishing effective teaching and learning environments for students with a broad range of needs.

MEd in Special Education Admissions Requirements

Ready to apply to the program? Here’s what you need to know:

Application Deadlines

Applications for this program are due by:

  • July 15, for a fall start
  • December 15, for a spring start
  • April 15, for a summer start

What You Need to Apply

  • Completed online application
  • $50 non-refundable application fee
  • Official transcripts (unofficial transcripts are acceptable for application review)
  • Two letters of recommendation, from professional references or faculty at an accredited institution 
  • Personal statement
  • Resume/CV
  • Demonstrated English proficiency (required for international applicants)

FAQs

When is the final deadline to apply?

The final application date depends on when you plan to start the program. For a fall start, applications are due on July 15. If you aim to begin the program in the spring, applications are due by December 15. Applications for a summer start are due no later than April 15.

When do classes start?

For the fall term, classes begin in late August. Spring classes start in late January. And summer classes begin in late May.

What format is the program offered in?

Lehigh’s Special Education MEd program is offered part- or full-time, with a typical course load of nine credit hours for full-time students and three or six credit hours for part-time students. It is offered on-campus only.

What prerequisites need to be met to apply?

To be eligible to apply, candidates must hold a bachelor’s degree and a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0.

Please note that due to Pennsylvania Department of Education criteria, international students are not eligible for PDE certification but may still apply to the standalone MEd Special Education program.

How long does the degree take to complete?

For students who are pursuing teaching certification in addition to the master’s degree, the time it takes to complete the program varies depending on the certification:

  • Special Education PreK-12 PA Teacher Certification: 2 years
  • Special Education PreK-12 & General Education PreK-4 PA Teacher Certification: 3–4 years
  • Special Education Pre-K12 & General Education 7-12 PA Teacher Certification: 3 years
Are scholarships available?

No. Scholarships are not currently offered for this program.