Provides evaluation of program approval requests for two-year, four-year, graduate and professional degrees; works with organizations seeking approval as degree-granting colleges, universities and seminaries to effect such approval; consults with the State Board of Education on the development of regulations to assure quality postsecondary and higher education programs; participates in long-range planning for higher education and assists institutions in the development of needed programs; and provides direction and coordination for adult basic and literacy education.

Bureau of Postsecondary and Adult Education - Consults with degree-granting institutions, consortia and professional associations in developing new programs; recommends the approval of programs to the Secretary of Education for the awarding of degrees at private junior colleges, colleges, universities and seminaries with restricted charters, professional schools, and the specialized technical and business degree programs at private, licensed schools; manages the licensing and administrative functions for the Board of Private Licensed Schools; provides training to law enforcement officers in the use of equipment and techniques for detection of those driving under the influence of chemical substances; and approves and supervises on-the-job training programs, educational institutions and training establishments for the education and training of veterans. 

Also, directs and administers adult basic education and literacy programs throughout the Commonwealth; administers the Commonwealth Secondary School Diploma and General Educational Development® (GED) programs; and coordinates federal and state adult basic and literacy education grant programs. Commonwealth Secondary School Diploma/GED®

Bureau of School Leadership and Teacher Quality

Reviews and approves educator preparation programs at over 90 public and private colleges and universities and alternative teacher preparation programs in the Commonwealth. Regulations and standards for educator preparation programs require they provide rigorous and research-based instruction and clinical experiences that will prepare candidates to be effective in their professional roles as Pennsylvania education providers.

Program approval by this office assures graduates and prospective employers that the knowledge and skills learned in the completed program of study result in student learning and growth in Pennsylvania's schools. Programs are reviewed to establish that initial standards are met by new programs and then every seven years full review and approval of all programs in an institution is required for the continuing operation of each program.

Provides technical assistance and training institutions of higher education and to candidates for certification who desire clarification and interpretation of regulations and guidelines that affect program approval. Staff also  compile data from program providers, and prepare an official report for the federal government.

For detailed information please visit http://www.education.state.pa.us (Highly Qualified Teacher Requirements)

Reviews and approves educator specialist, instructional, supervisory, administrative and temporary professional licenses for use in public and private schools grades pre-kindergarten through twelve. Reviews preliminary education requirements for individuals applying to nursing, public librarian and funderal director programs. A full list of the certificates and certification requirements may be viewed by clicking on the Certifications link here.

In December 2011 the division launched a new, online Teachers Information Management Systems (TIMS) application to facilitate the certification process. User Guides, general information and access to this program may be viewed by selecting the TIMS link on the Certifications page or by navigating to www.PA-TIMS.com.