The Children with Special Needs (624.3) diploma program will change to Children With Special Needs (624.4) as of Fall 2010 semester. Students already enrolled in Children with Special Needs (624.3) may complete the current program or move to the Children with Special Needs 624.4 program. Students should discuss these options with their advisors.

ALLEGHENY, BOYCE, NORTH, SOUTH

Diploma (624.3)

The Children with Special Needs diploma is designed primarily for individuals who are employed and seek specific skills for advancement. The program prepares students to work in community agencies that provide parent training, behavioral intervention and other type of support for families having children with special needs. Students gain skills for working with diverse populations through both classroom work and supervised practicum experiences. Individuals can also enroll in the diploma program to gain specialized parenting skills.

Upon completion of this program, graduates will be able to:

• integrate appropriate theories and practices, general and content knowledge and professional and pedagogical knowledge to create and implement developmentally appropriate experiences for children and their families;
• employ appropriate discipline terminology and professional tone in written and oral communication in descriptive and applied observation and documentation strategies to positively influence children's growth and development; and
• find community resources to support families and their children's development, learning and well-being.

Students can apply the credits earned in the diploma program toward a certificate or associate's degree in Early Education and Child Development. Students must be eligible for clearances through the Pennsylvania State Police Criminal History Check and the Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare Child Abuse History Check. Additionally, if required by a field/practicum site, students will need to obtain the FBI Criminal History Record Check (ACT114).

Upon completion of this program, graduates may seek employment as staff in agencies that provide services for children with special needs such as Easter Seals or as a family day care provider. Graduates may also seek employment as house-parents, group home workers, TSW's (therapeutic support workers), child care worker or as a respite care worker.

See the Checksheet for this program in printable PDF form.

Diploma Requirements

Minimum Credits to Graduate: 18

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