A student may enter the Secondary Education program either as a major in education or as a major in an academic department with a second major in the Education Department. However, in both cases the student must be approved by the department and follow the prescribed courses if he/she desires certification. Registration into Education Department courses numbered 230 and above are limited to majors or second majors in the programs of the Education Department. Exceptions require the expressed permission of the assistant dean and chair of the department. All aspects of the state-approved program must be completed to ensure recommendation for certification.

The department’s programs are accredited by the Pennsylvania Department of Education. The University’s Professional Education Unit is also accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education. Accreditation and interstate agreements between Pennsylvania and selected states assure that courses taken will be considered for certification in most states. Competency tests are required for Pennsylvania Teacher Certification.