Cooperative Education Certification Program

The Cooperative Education (Co-Op) Certification Program prepares educators to serve as Cooperative Education coordinators, a critical role that bridges classroom learning with real-world work experience. Co-op coordinators are responsible for planning, organizing, and administering cooperative education programs that help students apply theoretical knowledge in professional settings.

This program equips coordinators with the skills to guide students through meaningful work experiences while ensuring compliance with educational and legal standards. It covers essential aspects such as career guidance, program planning, legal requirements, and student support for diverse populations.

This program offers three distinct certification tracks tailored to different professional backgrounds. For more details, please refer to the individual flyers below.

For the Instructional Background – Designed for educators providing direct instruction in cooperative education programs.
For the Non-Instructional Background – Intended for professionals supporting cooperative education without classroom teaching.
For the CTE Background – Specialized for career and technical education (CTE) professionals integrating work-based learning into their programs.

Certification Requirements for Cooperative Education Instructors

To become a certified Cooperative Education Instructor in Pennsylvania, candidates must meet the following requirements:

CTE Background Cooperative Education Certification Requirements

Completion of a Pennsylvania Department of Education-approved Career and Technical Education (CTE) program.
Successful completion of the NOCTI Cooperative Education Assessment.
Submission of required credentials, including academic transcripts, employment verification, and state/national certifications (if applicable).

NON-Instructional Cooperative Education Certification Requirements:

For individuals supporting cooperative education programs without direct classroom instruction.
Requirements include program-specific coursework, verified work experience, and the successful completion of the NOCTI assessment.

Instructional Cooperative Education Certification Requirements:

Hold a valid PDE-recognized teaching certificate (e.g., Instructional I/II).
Complete any additional cooperative education courses or credits that PDE or Penn State identifies as necessary (some standard requirements may be waived).
Successful completion of the NOCTI Cooperative Education Assessment.
Submit updated transcripts, employment verifications, and relevant state/national certifications, ensuring you meet PDE’s legal and professional standards.

NOCTI Cooperative Education Assessment

The NOCTI Cooperative Education Assessment is a mandatory evaluation for candidates pursuing Cooperative Education certification. This computer-based test assesses a candidate’s knowledge and skills to effectively coordinate cooperative education programs.

Assessment Overview:

Format: Computer-based test administered through NOCTI.
Blueprint: The assessment follows the NOCTI Cooperative Education Assessment Blueprint to ensure consistency and fairness in evaluation.
Testing Dates: Open enrollment period: July 1 – June 30.
Candidates are encouraged to schedule their assessment well before the expiration of any emergency certification.

Important: Testing deadlines are strict and will not be extended.

Steps to Register for the NOCTI Assessment:

Contact the PPDC Certification Coordinator: Wilda Hackman at (814) 863-0805 or [email protected].
Complete the Registration Process:
- Submit all required documentation (work experience, transcripts, etc.).
- Confirm your eligibility for the NOCTI assessment with the coordinator.