This paper describes an alternative certification program that was developed to address the shortage of certified special education teachers in West Virginia. The goal of the program is to provide students from a noneducational background with opportunities at the master's degree level to become special education teachers in one of three categories: mental retardation, specific learning disabilities, or behavior disorders. In addition to general admission requirements, noneducation majors must pass the Pre-Professional Skills Test and the Multi-Subjects Content Specialization test and complete six prerequisite courses before beginning special education certification coursework. To obtain certification, students must complete 12 hours of core courses, 9 hours of certification area specialization courses, and 18 hours of required degree courses. After completing the coursework, students must pass the Content Specialization test in the area in which they seek endorsement. Since 1986, 116 students from noneducational backgrounds have sought admission to the program. The average student was 34.6 years of age, had 2 children, and was employed full-time. In order to meet the needs of these nontraditional students, coursework is offered by faculty who travel to various sites in the state, through distance education courses, and through alternative class meeting schedules. Of the 116 students, 62 have completed all certification requirements, 49 are currently employed as special education teachers in the state, and 43 have remained employed in the school system in which they were initially hired. (LP)