Post-Master's Certification in Learning Disabilities Teacher-Consultant

Coordinator: Dr. Jennifer Goeke
Office: University Hall, Room 2119
Phone: (973) 655-6943
Email: goekej@mail.montclair.edu

Advisor: Margaret Leckey
Office: University Hall, Room 2128A
Phone: (973) 655-3295
Email: leckeym@mail.montclair.edu

The Special Education programs at Montclair State University are designed so that certified teachers and Learning Disabilities Teacher-Consultants develop a comprehensive understanding of special education. This includes knowledge about the field of special education and the relationship of special education to the family, other disciplines, and the community. We believe it is important for special educators to understand not only the nature and discourse in their given discipline, but the role the discipline plays in society. Without this disciplinary grounding, special educators will not be able to facilitate their students’ learning and development. In keeping with this principle, the special education faculty is committed to aiding our students to develop competencies in research based special education practices for instruction and assessment, and to cultivating their ability to use these competencies to increase inclusive education in New Jersey schools. Although the certification in special education in New Jersey is generic, rather than disability specific, we emphasize preparing professionals to work with those who have mild to moderate disabilities. The underlying philosophy of our programs is that appropriate special education will enhance the quality of life for children with disabilities and their families, and this, in turn, is good for schools and communities.

The Post-Master’s Certification Program in Learning Disabilities Teacher-Consultant program prepares students to be Learning Disabilities Teacher- Consultants (LDT-Cs). The LDT-C is the member of the Child Study Team who is responsible for the assessment, placement, IEP (Individualized Educational Program) development and program monitoring for students referred for special education services. An essential component of the role is to provide consultation and in-service training for teachers regarding a student’s educational program. This program is open to certified teachers. This program also provides graduates with certification for Learning Disabilities Teacher-Consultants from the State of New Jersey.

Special Education and Learning Disabilities Brochure The Special Education programs at Montclair State University are designed so that certified teachers and Learning Disabilities Teacher-Consultants develop a comprehensive understanding of special education. This includes knowledge about the field of special education and the relationship of special education to the family, other disciplines, and the community. Read More - Special Education & Learning Disabilities

Course Requirements:

The course requirements listed below apply to those students admitted on or after Fall 2008. Anyone admitted prior to this term should refer to their Analysis of Academic Progress on WESS or see your academic advisor for your official program of study.

The Graduate Program Coordinator will examine applicant's transcripts of the master's degree and other graduate credits to determine specifically which of the following courses may be applied toward certification for Learning Disabilities Teacher-Consultant:

 

ELECTIVES AREAS OF STUDY (May be contained in master's degree program)The number of elective credits needed will be determined at advisement; see notes below.

Notes:

Credits:
Students who are seeking certification in LDT-C must complete the 30 credits of required courses listed above and electives as determined by the advisor. Students may apply credits toward the requirements if the graduate level courses previously taken are parallel in content and requirements to MSU courses and if they are approved by the advisor. However, 12 credits must be taken at MSU. Transfer course work must be less than 10 years old and the grade earned a "B" or better. Elective courses provide the background in teaching students with disabilities that as LDT-C must possess in order to be successful in this role. The number of elective credits required will depend on previous educational background, certifications held, and experience

Program Purpose:
The courses and practica in this program are designed to prepare students to be Learning Disabilities Teacher-Consultants. Although emphasis is placed on Child Study Team function in school settings, LDT-Cs are working in hospitals and private practice. Students are trained to work in interdisciplinary manner simulates the nature of Child Study Team operations.

Program Accreditations:
The program is approved by the Council for Exceptional Children and the New Jersey Department of Education.

Course Sequence:
SPED 579, SPED 579, 580, 581, 587, 590, 596 must be taken in this order. Remaining courses may be taken at any time. Enroll in SPED 587, SPED 587 requires the prerequisite, SPED 582, SPED 567, or SPED 568, or another graduate methods course in teaching students with disabilities.

Qualifying Examination:
The passing of the Qualifying Examination is used as a criterion for entering the practica (SPED 590 and 596). Questions cover the knowledge base that is expected to be in place before a student begins practicum experiences. A review sheet is available as a study guide. The examination dates are announced in the semester prior to enrolling in SPED 590.

Practica:
SPED 590 and 596 are supervised practica. The Graduate Program Coordinator's permission is required before enrolling in these courses. The Qualifying Examination must be taken and passed before enrolling in SPED 590, SPED 590.

Final Audit:
The dates listed are deadlines for filing for Final Audit with the Registrar's office: October 1st for May conferment; March 1st for August conferment; and June 1st for January conferment.

Links:

NJ Department of Education Requirements for Licensure

List of Requirements for the Montclair State University Master of Education in Learning Disabilities Program

Montclair State University Center of Pedagogy

Admission Information:

All candidates must meet application and admission requirements as defined by The Graduate School. Candidates with degrees in closely related areas will be considered, although prematriculation coursework may be required.

Deadlines:

Credentials are processed as soon as they are received. This program does not have a specific deadline; however, the Office of Graduate Admissions & Support Services recommends that students submit their credentials as far in advance as possible for the semester they plan to begin their studies to ensure a timely review of their application.