West Virginia University will launch a new distance education program in January.

The new special education program in the College of Human Resources and Educations Department of Education Theory and Practice leads to certification and/or a masters degree in Multi-categorical Mild Disabilities.

Teachers who become certified in this new specialty will be able to work with students in three areas: learning disabilities, behavior disorders or mild mental impairment. Previously teachers had to seek separate certification in a specific category to work with special education students.

The 33 hours of the program required for certification will be available through a blend of distance learning delivery methods (online, Web-based and satellite) that will allow students to seek certification without leaving their region.

Thirty-nine credit hours are required for the masters degree. The additional six credit hours will be offered on campus in the summer, as well as during the regular academic year.

West Virginia has experienced a shortage of certified special education teachers for a number of years, especially in rural areas.

This program will put more highly qualified special education teachers in the schools, and teachers already teaching with a provisional permit will be able to become certified more quickly,said Assistant Professor Kate Mitchem.

I am pleased that we are able to use technology to help school districts throughout the state meet their need for highly qualified special education teachers,said Anne H. Nardi, dean of the College of Human Resources and Education. Information about the new program will be available during the 30th Annual West Virginia Council for Exceptional Children Conference Oct. 9-10 at the Radisson Hotel in Morgantown.

To find out more about this new program, contact Dr. Elizabeth Dooley at 304-293-3441 or e-mail HREadmn@mail.wvu.edu .