Deaf Education
Make a Difference in the Lives of Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing Students
Are you passionate about helping others and want to make a real difference in education? If you care about supporting deaf and hard-of-hearing students and helping them succeed in school and life, PennWest’s Deaf Education Certificate is a great option. This 30-credit program is perfect for education majors who want to create inclusive, accessible classrooms. It’s offered in a flexible hybrid format and leads to teacher certification. You’ll build important skills in communication, language, and advocacy to support deaf and hard-of-hearing students in a variety of school settings.
This program is for you if...
- You are passionate about empowering deaf and hard-of-hearing students to reach their academic, social, and emotional potential.
- You want to pursue a meaningful and in-demand role in the field of education.
- You are a current education major or practicing teacher seeking certification in Deaf Education.
- You aim to create inclusive, accessible learning environments and develop specialized communication and advocacy skills.
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30 Credits for Certificate
What You'll Study
As part of the Deaf Education Certificate at PennWest, you’ll take courses that give you a strong foundation in working with deaf and hard-of-hearing students. You’ll learn American Sign Language and explore Deaf culture, helping you better understand and connect with your future students. The program also covers the basics of audiology, listening and spoken language, and how to manage inclusive classrooms. You’ll gain practical skills in assessment, developing IEPs (Individualized Education Programs), and supporting literacy—everything you need to make a positive impact in diverse educational settings.
| Degrees, Certificates, Minors | Offered at... | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | Clarion | Edinboro | Global Online | |
| Deaf Education, Certificate | Program Not Offered At This Location | Program Not Offered At This Location | Program Offered At This LocationIn-Person | Program Not Offered At This Location |
Meet Our Faculty
Our faculty are not just instructors; they are mentors, researchers, and industry professionals committed to providing an education grounded in real-world experiences and academic excellence. From engaging classroom discussions to hands-on experiential learning, our educators are here to support and inspire you every step of the way.
How You'll Learn
This program is offered in-person at the Edinboro campus. An in-person program emphasizes traditional in-person courses at one or more of our locations.
What You'll Become
With a certificate in Deaf Education from PennWest, you’ll be prepared for a variety of meaningful careers. You could become a Teacher of the Deaf or a Special Education Teacher, working directly with students who are deaf or hard of hearing. If you’re interested in supporting families, a role as a Family Education Specialist or Itinerant Teacher might be a great fit. You could also work in Early Intervention, helping young children get the support they need from the start. For those who enjoy research or want to teach future educators, becoming a Professor or Researcher is an option—and if you’re passionate about making a difference beyond the classroom, you could become an Advocate or Activist for the Deaf community.
Career Paths
- Teacher of the Deaf
- Special Education Teacher
- Family Education Specialist
- Itinerant Teacher
- Early Intervention
- Researcher/Professor
- Advocate/Activist
PennWest awarded nearly $400K for deaf education apprenticeship program
Pennsylvania Western University has been awarded a $398,923 Supporting Certified Teacher Registered Apprenticeship (CTRA) Programs grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry.
How We'll Help You Succeed
At Pennsylvania Western University (PennWest), we prioritize your success and well-being from the moment you join our community. Our comprehensive student support system is designed to meet you where you are, offering personalized guidance, academic assistance, and emotional support to ensure you can fully focus on your studies and personal growth. Whether you're a first-generation college student, returning for further education, or navigating career changes, our dedicated faculty and staff provide the encouragement and resources you need to overcome challenges and thrive. With a wide range of services from tutoring and career counseling to mental health resources, PennWest stands by your side, empowering you to achieve your academic goals and prepare for a successful future. Join us at PennWest, where you're not just a student; you're part of a supportive family committed to helping you find your place in the world.
Over 90%
More than 90% of deaf children are born to hearing parents, and approximately 75% of those parents do not use sign language to communicate fluently with their child.
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Affordable Programs
Tuition & FeesDiscover quality education that fits your budget with our affordable programs at PennWest.
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Success Coaching
Success at PennWestAchieve your academic goals with personalized guidance from our dedicated student success coaches.
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Post-Graduation Support
Life After PennWestWe're here for you even after graduation, providing support and resources to help you succeed in your career.