Consulting Resource Teacher (MEd)
The Consulting Resource Teacher (CRT) program is designed to equip teachers to serve students and educators in an inclusion setting where this diverse population of students requires general and special educators to collaborate. It offers a variety of strategies for consultation, collaboration and instruction as well as a broad knowledge and understanding of the learning process. This program emphasizes the practical application of learning theory, legislation, and leadership from a biblical worldview of education.
Program Competencies
The program is designed to prepare students to do the following:
- Serve as a specialist and resource person within a school setting providing assistance and direction for the school's staff.
- Classify the laws, regulations, and policies dictating the procedures needed to assist students in inclusion settings.
- Assess the academic abilities of students in order to determine the learning potential and appropriate teaching techniques for each student's success.
- Design individualized learning programs for the remediation and adaptation for special needs students in the inclusion classroom.
- Differentiate the etiology for learning problems observed in students in K-12 educational settings.
- Identify the distinctive characteristics of students with literacy problems.
- Determine the literacy levels of individual students and determine the strategies required for effective instruction for those students.
- Synthesize the results of the assessment, instruction, and observation in making instructional recommendations for a student's success in the classroom.
Program Options
Capital Seminary & Graduate School offers seven program options in Master of Education Consulting Resource Teacher degree. Students may choose to earn only the degree, or the degree with one of the specializations, or a certificate only. Because these certificates and endorsements are from the Pennsylvania Department of Education, only those teachers who currently hold a valid PA Instructional Certificate are eligible. The requirements for each option are listed here:
MEd Consulting Resource Teacher
In order to earn the MEd, each student must complete a noncredit Orientation Seminar, the 21 credit professional core, and a set of professional electives (18 credits) for a total of 39 credits in the program. Any of the three specializations would be possible within the degree requirements. Should the student not desire a certificate beyond the Instructional II, any electives may be chosen to complete the 39 credit requirement.
Curricular Structure
The Master of Education degree option consists of 39 credits and a non-credit Orientation Seminar. In order to earn the MEd, each student must complete the professional core (21 credits), a non-credit Orientation Seminar, and a set of professional electives (18 credits) for a total of 39 credits in the program. Any of the three specializations would be possible within the degree requirements. Should the student not desire a certificate beyond the Instructional II level, any electives may be chosen to complete the 39 credit requirement.
The curriculum is designed as follows:
| Orientation Seminar |
0 Credit |
| Professional Core |
21 Credits |
| Open Electives |
18 Credits |
| Program Total |
39 Credits |
Location Offered
Lancaster, PA
Professional Core (21 Credits)
ORI 500
| | |
| CRT 513 | Assessment Measures for Special Students | 3 |
| CRT 517 | Organizational Leadership & School Change | 3 |
CRT 519
| | |
| CRT 598 | Seminar in Action Research I | 3 |
| CRT 599 | Project in Action Research | 3 |
| SEC 539 | Legislation Dictating Special Services | 3 |
RSC 529
| | |
Open Electives (18 Credits)
CRT 521
| | |
| CRT 540 | Selected Topics in Inclusion Education | 3 |
| CRT 549 | Seminar in Learning Disabilities & Other Neurological Impairments | 3 |
| RSC 524 | Children's Literature for Instructions | 3 |
| RSC 526 | Literacy Assessment | 3 |
| RSC 527 | Diagnostic Reading Instruction | 3 |
| RSC 528 | Literacy Development and Language Acquisition for the English Language Lear | 3 |
| SEC 513 | Instructional Practices & Strategies | 3 |
SEC 533
| | |
| SEC 541 | ESL Culture & Communication | 3 |
MEd Consulting Resource Teacher with Reading Specialist Certification
In order to earn the MEd with Reading Specialist Certification, each student must complete a noncredit Orientation Seminar, the 21 credit professional core, 9 credits of Reading Specialist electives, and 9 credits of open electives for a total of 39 credits in the program. Throughout the program there must be 40 hours of field work to complement the 60 hours of the Action Research to accomplish the required 100 hours of field work. A passing score on the Praxis exam for Reading Specialist is also required.
Curricular Structure
The Master of Education degree with Reading Specialist Certificate option consists of 39 credits and a non-credit Orientation Seminar. In order to earn the MEd with Reading Specialist certification, each student must complete a non-credit Orientation Seminar, the 21 credit professional core, 9 credits of Reading Specialist electives, and 9 credits of open electives for a total of 39 credits in the program. Throughout the program there must be 40 hours of field work to complement the 60 hours of the Action Research to accomplish the required 100 hours of field work. A passing score on the Praxis exam for Reading Specialist is also required. The curriculum is designed as follows:
| Orientation Seminar |
0 Credit |
| Professional Core |
21 Credits |
| Reading Specialist Electives |
9 Credits |
| Open Electives |
9 Credits |
| Program Total |
39 Credits |
Location Offered
Lancaster, PA
Professional Core (21 Credits)
ORI 500
| | |
| CRT 513 | Assessment Measures for Special Students | 3 |
| CRT 517 | Organizational Leadership & School Change | 3 |
CRT 519
| | |
| CRT 598 | Seminar in Action Research I | 3 |
| CRT 599 | Project in Action Research | 3 |
| SEC 539 | Legislation Dictating Special Services | 3 |
RSC 529
| | |
Reading Specialist Courses (9 Credits)
| RSC 526 | Literacy Assessment | 3 |
| RSC 527 | Diagnostic Reading Instruction | 3 |
| RSC 528 | Literacy Development and Language Acquisition for the English Language Lear | 3 |
Open Electives (9 Credits)
CRT 521
| | |
| CRT 540 | Selected Topics in Inclusion Education | 3 |
| CRT 549 | Seminar in Learning Disabilities & Other Neurological Impairments | 3 |
| RSC 524 | Children's Literature for Instructions | 3 |
| SEC 513 | Instructional Practices & Strategies | 3 |
SEC 533
| | |
| SEC 541 | ESL Culture & Communication | 3 |
MEd Consulting Resource Teacher with ESL Certification (K-12)
In order to earn the MEd with ESL Program Specialist, each student must complete a noncredit Orientation Seminar, the 21 credit professional core, 9 credits of ESL certification electives, and 9 credits of open electives for a total of 39 credits in the program.
Curricular Structure
The Master of Education degree with the ESL Certification option consists of 39 credits and a non-credit Orientation Seminar. In order to earn the MEd Consulting Resource Teacher with ESL Certification, each student must complete a non-credit Orientation Seminar, the 21 credit professional core, 9 credits of ESL Certification electives, and 9 credits of open electives for a total of 39 credits in the program. The curriculum is designed as follows:
| Orientation Seminar |
0 Credit |
| Professional Core |
21 Credits |
| ESL Certification Electives |
9 Credits |
| Open Electives |
9 Credits |
| Program Total |
39 Credits |
Location Offered
Lancaster, PA
Professional Core (21 Credits)
ORI 500
| | |
| CRT 513 | Assessment Measures for Special Students | 3 |
| CRT 517 | Organizational Leadership & School Change | 3 |
CRT 519
| | |
| CRT 598 | Seminar in Action Research I | 3 |
| CRT 599 | Project in Action Research | 3 |
| SEC 539 | Legislation Dictating Special Services | 3 |
RSC 529
| | |
ESL Certification Electives (9 Credits)
| SEC 513 | Instructional Practices & Strategies | 3 |
| SEC 541 | ESL Culture & Communication | 3 |
| RSC 528 | Literacy Development and Language Acquisition for the English Language Lear | 3 |
Open Electives (9 Credits)
CRT 521
| | |
| CRT 540 | Selected Topics in Inclusion Education | 3 |
| CRT 549 | Seminar in Learning Disabilities & Other Neurological Impairments | 3 |
| RSC 524 | Children's Literature for Instructions | 3 |
| RSC 526 | Literacy Assessment | 3 |
| RSC 527 | Diagnostic Reading Instruction | 3 |
SEC 533
| | |
Reading Specialist Certification
In order to gain only the certification as a Reading Specialist, the student must complete 30 credits that comprise a noncredit Orientation Seminar, 12 credits in the professional core, 9 credits of electives designated for Reading Specialist certification, and 9 credits of open electives. A passing score on the Praxis exam for Reading Specialist is also required.
Curricular Structure
For prospective students holding an Instructional I certificate, or its equivalent, certification as a Reading Specialist (K-12) can be arranged for a student without the student needing to enroll in the MEd degree program. In order to gain the certification as a Reading Specialist, the student must complete a non-credit Orientation Seminar and 30 credits that comprise 12 credits from the professional core, 9 credits from the Reading Specialist electives, and 9 credits of open electives. A passing score on the Praxis exam for Reading Specialist is also required. The curriculum is designed as follows:
| Orientation Seminar |
0 Credit |
| Professional Core |
12 Credits |
| Reading Specialist Electives |
9 Credits |
| Open Electives |
9 Credits |
| Program Total |
30 Credits |
Location Offered
Lancaster, PA
Professional Core (12 Credits)
ORI 500
| | |
| CRT 513 | Assessment Measures for Special Students | 3 |
| CRT 517 | Organizational Leadership & School Change | 3 |
CRT 519
| | |
RSC 529
| | |
Reading Specialist Electives (9 Credits)
| RSC 526 | Literacy Assessment | 3 |
| RSC 527 | Diagnostic Reading Instruction | 3 |
| RSC 528 | Literacy Development and Language Acquisition for the English Language Lear | 3 |
Open Electives (9 Credits)
CRT 521
| | |
| CRT 540 | Selected Topics in Inclusion Education | 3 |
| CRT 549 | Seminar in Learning Disabilities & Other Neurological Impairments | 3 |
| RSC 524 | Children's Literature for Instructions | 3 |
| SEC 513 | Instructional Practices & Strategies | 3 |
SEC 533
| | |
| SEC 541 | ESL Culture & Communication | 3 |
ESL Certification (K-12)
In order to gain only the certification as an English Second Language Specialist, the student must complete a noncredit Orientation Seminar, 9 credits in the professional core and 9 credits of designated electives. This program requires 60 hours of field work integrated within the courses.
Curricular Structure
For prospective students holding an Instructional I certificate, or its equivalent, a certificate as an English as a Second Language Teacher (K-12) can be arranged for a student without the student needing to enroll in the MEd degree program. In order to gain this non-degree certificate as an English as a Second Language Specialist, the student must complete a non-credit Orientation Seminar, 9 credits in the professional core and 9 credits of ESL Certification electives. This program requires 60 hours of field work integrated within the courses. The curriculum is designed as follows:
| Orientation Seminar |
0 Credit |
| Professional Core |
9 Credits |
| ESL Certification Electives |
9 Credits |
| Program Total |
18 Credits |
Location Offered
Lancaster, PA
Professional Core (9 Credits)
ORI 500
| | |
| CRT 513 | Assessment Measures for Special Students | 3 |
CRT 519
| | |
RSC 529
| | |
ESL Certification Electives (9 Credits)
| SEC 513 | Instructional Practices & Strategies | 3 |
| SEC 541 | ESL Culture & Communication | 3 |
| RSC 528 | Literacy Development and Language Acquisition for the English Language Lear | 3 |
Program Information
Administration and Faculty
Program Director
Mrs. Julia Hershey
Program Director, Master of Education, Consulting Resource Teacher Program
Mrs. Hershey has served at Lancaster Bible College | Capital Seminary & Graduate School since 2009. As a professor she has taught a wide range of courses. Her teaching and research interests include instructional design, teaching strategies, reflection, and literacy. She earned her BS from Lancaster Bible College and her MEd from Penn State. She is currently a doctoral candidate in Curriculum & Instruction from Indiana University of Pennsylvania.
PHONE: 717.569.7071 ext. 5375 | EMAIL: JHershey@lbc.edu
MEd Consulting Resource Teacher Faculty
Resident Faculty:
E. Penny Clawson, EdD
Robert B. Dodson, EdD
Stacey Martin, MEd
Adjunct and Visiting Faculty:
M. Raluca Snyder, EdD
CRT 598/599 Seminar and Project in Action Research
After completing 24 credits, the candidate may register for CRT 598 /CRT 599 Action Research I & II. During these two courses, each candidate develops an appropriate field research project following a seminar directing the design and assessment procedures for action research. The direction of the action research will be focused on the inclusive classroom and the strategies for its success. The field work for this course requires a minimum of 60 hours in an educational setting determined by the candidate's selected specialization and/or certification. This research typically requires more than one semester, so the student must register for both courses in fall and spring of one academic year.
It is expected that the candidates will achieve each of the following objectives at the conclusion of this field experience:
- Design an action research project to use the skills and knowledge for inclusionary education.
- Describe a hypothesis for the instruction of a student in an inclusionary setting and design the instructional strategies according to the hypothesis.
- Assess the results attained through the use of the strategies selected and implemented.
- Engage in instructional design with accommodations for the student in an inclusionary setting.
- Participate in daily instruction for students with special needs at a variety of levels.
ACT 48
Courses in the Consulting Resource Teacher programs may be used for ACT 48 credit. Nondegree students may take these classes for ACT 48 credit. Please see the "Academic" section of this catalog, "Nondegree Students."
Program Completion
Students should be able to complete the Master of Education program within three years. The maximum length for program completion is five years from the date of admission into the program. An application for an extension may be obtained from Adult Learner Services (717-560-8282). Students not completing their degree within five years and not receiving an extension will be placed on non-student status. A readmission application may be obtained from Adult Learner Services. Student records will be reviewed each summer.
The following requirements must be successfully completed in order to receive the MEd:
- Satisfactory completion of all course work
- A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0
- Fulfillment of all financial obligations
- An acceptable evaluation from the supervisor for the field work
- Adherence to biblical standards and ethics in living one's lifestyle
MEd Graduation Requirements
The following requirements must be successfully completed in order to receive the Master of Education degree:
- Satisfactory completion of all course work
- A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0
- Fulfillment of all financial obligations
- Adherence to biblical standards and ethics in living one's lifestyle
Application and Admission
Admission Criteria and Application Process - MEd Consulting Resource Teacher
Individuals seeking admission to the MEd, Consulting Resource Teacher program must complete the following application steps. Decisions for admission to this program are made using each application pieces listed as criteria.
- Application Form: Complete the online application and submit the $40 application fee. Once your application has been received, you will be contacted by an Admissions Representative who will guide you through the application process.
- Autobiographical Essay: Write an autobiographical essay. Guidelines for the essay are found here or from Adult Learner Services (717-560-8282). This essay is designed to provide applicable life content as well as demonstrate the applicant's writing ability. Applicants will be evaluated on: confirmation of acceptance of Christ as personal Savior, developments in spiritual growth, statement of ministry and professional goals, and rationale for desiring a master's degree. This autobiography has specific guidelines (please follow link above) and is designed for assessing the above content as well as writing ability.
- References: Ask three people who are qualified to evaluate your professional work experience and potential as a teacher, to complete the reference form on your behalf. Reference forms are located online here.
- Request Official Transcripts: Contact all institutions through which degrees have been awarded to request official transcripts to be sent to Adult Learner Services (717-560-8282). These must be official transcripts sent directly from the degree granting institution(s). There must be a transcript from an accredited institution showing completion of a bachelor's degree with a minimum GPA of 2.85.
- Certification: Applicants must submit a valid certificate at a minimum level of Instructional I or its equivalent. A copy must be sent to Adult Learner Services (717-560-8282).
- Computer Proficiency Form: Please complete the online computer proficiency form.
- TOEFL Score: Non-native speakers of English must submit scores from the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). If the applicant has an undergraduate degree from an accredited American college or university, he/she is exempt from the TOEFL requirement. If required, the TOEFL test score must meet the following minimum for admission: paper score 550; computer score 213; or internet score 79. The applicant's skill score in writing will also be considered in the admissions decision.
- Personal Interview: Following receipt of the above items, a personal interview will be arranged with a faculty member
Admission Criteria and Application Process - MEd Certification
Individuals seeking admission to the MEd program for certification only must complete the following application steps. Decisions for admission to this program are made using each application pieces listed as criteria.
- Application Form: Complete the nondegree application and submit the $40 application fee. The nondegree application is available from Adult Learner Services (717-560-8282). Once your application has been received, you will be contacted by an Admissions Representative who will guide you through the application process.
- Statement: Write a brief statement of your current situation/employment, future goals, salvation experience, and spiritual growth. This must be submitted with the application and will be evaluated for acceptance as a nondegree seeking student. Applicants will be evaluated on: confirmation of acceptance of Christ as personal Savior, developments in spiritual growth, statement of ministry and professional goals, and rationale for desiring the certification.
- References: Ask two people who are qualified to evaluate your professional work experience and potential as a teacher, to complete the reference form on your behalf. Reference forms are located online here.
- Request Official Transcripts: Contact all institutions through which degrees have been awarded to request official transcripts to be sent to Adult Learner Services (717-560-8282). These must be official transcripts sent directly from the degree granting institution(s). There must be a transcript from an accredited institution showing completion of a bachelor's degree with a minimum GPA of 2.85.
- Certification: Applicants must submit a valid certificate at a minimum level of Instructional I or its equivalent. A copy must be sent to Adult Learner Services (717-560-8282).
- Computer Proficiency Form: Please complete the online computer proficiency form.
- TOEFL Score: Non-native speakers of English must submit scores from the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). If the applicant has an undergraduate degree from an accredited American college or university, he/she is exempt from the TOEFL requirement. If required, the TOEFL test score must meet the following minimum for admission: paper score 550; computer score 213; or internet score 79. The applicant's skill score in writing will also be considered in the admissions decision.
- Personal Interview: Following receipt of the above items, a personal interview will be arranged with a faculty member.
Application Response
Applicants will be notified within three weeks of the submission of all application materials with regards to their acceptance into a program. Five decisions are possible.
- Full Acceptance: The applicant is fully accepted with no deficiencies or leveling requirements.
- Accepted with Deficiencies: The applicant is accepted into the program with admission's academic deficiencies identified. The applicant will be informed as to the necessary steps required to achieve full acceptance.
- Accepted on Review Status: The applicant is admitted pending further review. This may be because a part of the application was incomplete (e.g. a score was not received in time) or because the applicant did not meet one of the admission's requirements.
- Delay: The applicant may receive an application delay. This may be due to the program being filled, a change in the applicant's life situation, or an event preventing the applicant from attending the first program session. Delayed status applicants will not have to reapply to the program but must pay the program down payment fee.
- Declined: The applicant who is declined will be notified by mail or email. Specific reasons for the decline are not provided.