Help students improve their literacy skills

As a reading specialist, you can help students identify their reading difficulties and develop methods to overcome those struggles by providing remedial instructions. The Graduate Certificate in Reading Specialist prepares you to teach reading programs at various educational levels.

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Credits required:

25 credits

Cost per credit:

$600/credit

Time to completion:

As few as 12 months

Delivery:

On campus or online

Graduate Certificate in Reading Specialist Curriculum 

The program is focused on the science of reading with an emphasis on facilitating learning for students who struggle with reading.

Quick facts

  • Innovative applied-based practices
  • No student teaching required
  • Approved provider for the federal TEACH Grant
In a library, a young boy is tutored by a teacher. He is holding a pencil over a book. They are talking.
Hispanic Young Boy and Famle Adult Studying At Library.

Career opportunities for reading specialists

Reading specialists help students of all ages become successful, independent readers. They also work with adults and out-of-school secondary students. Some specialists focus on curriculum development.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 3% percent growth in job employment between 2019 and 2029. 

Admission requirements and application process

You can apply for free online, and must submit the following materials:

  • Official transcripts from all degree-granting institutions you have attended
  • Personal essay that describes your academic objectives
  • Current resume or curriculum vitae
  • Two letters of recommendation that address your leadership potential and ability to succeed in graduate-level work
Apply

anytime

Start terms:

Fall, Spring & Summer

An undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher is preferred; however, provisional admission is also possible if you do not meet all of the admission criteria but exhibit a strong possibility of academic success. No prerequisites or teacher licensure are required for this degree and certification.

Reading Specialist faculty

Contact Admissions

If you are interested in this graduate certificate program, our Admissions team is available to assist you with the next steps.

admissions@carlow.edu
+1 (412) 578-6059

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Prepare to help meet the educational needs of students with disabilities

Carlow University’s Special Education program at the graduate level prepares teachers to meet the needs of children with a wide variety of mental, physical, social, emotional and behavioral disabilities in multiple settings. You will learn to adapt general education lessons to effectively teach students with mild and moderate disabilities.

Per requirements of the Pennsylvania Department of Education, students entering the Special Education graduate certificate program must be certified teachers in another content area.

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A Carlow students smiles at the camera during class. She is surrounded by other classmates.
In Grace Library, spanning the third and fourth floor of the University Commons, there are numerous quiet spaces and study rooms for individuals and groups to use.
Credits required:

26 credits

Delivery:

$600/credit

Time to completion:

As few as 18 months

Delivery:

On campus or online

Graduate Certificate in Special Education curriculum

The graduate Special Education program includes 23 credit hours of coursework focusing on the practical application of research-based special education theoretical constructs and methodology and 3 credits of student teaching. The program requires 12 credits that focus on research methodologies, analytical processes and critical issues. You must have 9 credits in special needs education as prerequisites to entering the Master of Education program with a concentration in special education. 

Quick facts

  • Emphasizes meeting needs of students with a wide range of disabilities and positive behavior support
  • Latest special education technology
  • Approved provider for the federal TEACH Grant
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Career opportunities for special education teachers

Most special education teachers work in public schools, teaching students at the preschool, elementary, middle and high school levels. Others work in private schools, child care services and other institutions.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, overall employment of special education teachers is projected to grow 3% from 2019 to 2029. Demand for special education services and teachers should rise as disabilities are being identified earlier and as children with disabilities are enrolled into special education programs.

Admission requirements and application process

You can apply for free online, and must submit the following materials:

  • Official transcripts from all degree-granting institutions you have attended
  • Personal essay that describes your academic objectives
  • Current resume or curriculum vitae
  • Two letters of recommendation that address your leadership potential and ability to succeed in graduate-level work
Apply

anytime

Start terms:

Fall, Spring & Summer

An undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher is preferred; however, provisional admission is also possible if you do not meet all of the admission criteria but exhibit a strong possibility of academic success. No prerequisites or teacher licensure are required for this degree and certification.

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Olivia Miller, ’21, biology major and runner on the track & field/cross country team.

Expand your knowledge

Carlow made life easy for Jennifer Do, MEd as she earned a master’s and then a graduate certificate in special education while maintaining her full-time job. “I needed them to understand I worked in the field already, that I had years of experience, and that I wanted to learn more. They challenged me and made me think about the world around me. They helped me to grow into a leadership position. Carlow fit into my life, and to this day I still reach out to the staff.”

Special Education faculty & staff

Contact Admissions

If you are interested in this graduate certificate program, our Admissions team is available to assist you with the next steps.

admissions@carlow.edu
+1 (412) 578-6059

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Follow us and stay up-to-date on events and opportunities to learn more about our program and faculty.

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Earn your graduate certificate in forensic accounting online

You can pursue a new career or seek promotion in the field with a graduate certificate in fraud and forensics. The program combines case-based learning with top anti-fraud resources from the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE) to help prepare you to investigate, remediate and prevent fraud.

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Credits required:

11 credits

Cost per credit:

$929/credit

Time to completion:

As few as 2 semesters

Delivery: 

100% Online

Forensic accounting certificate curriculum

You will learn key strategies to minimize fraud, build an understanding of required personal ethics and hone the skill of financial statement examination. Courses include lectures and videos from experts in the forensic accounting field.

Upon completion, you will be prepared to pursue ACFE certification. Credits earned in this certificate program can be used toward a master’s in fraud and forensics.

Quick Facts

  • Learn through case-based learning
  • Be prepared for ACFE certification

Career opportunities for forensic accounting 

Heightened awareness and growing intolerance of fraudulent activity has increased demand for forensic accountants, according to the ACFE. Once certified, forensic accountants can hold positions in governmental departments, accounting firms, corporate security and risk management, and law firms. 

Admission requirements and application process

You can apply for free online, and must submit the following materials:

  • Official transcripts from all degree-granting institutions you have attended
  • Personal essay that describes your academic objectives
  • Current resume or curriculum vitae
  • Two letters of recommendation that address your leadership potential and ability to succeed in graduate-level work

An undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher is preferred; however, provisional admission is also possible if you do not meet all of the admission criteria but exhibit a strong possibility of academic success.

Apply

anytime

Start terms:

Fall, Spring & Summer

Fraud & Forensics faculty

Contact Admissions

If you are interested in this certificate program, our Admissions team is available to help you with the next steps, including scheduling an on-campus visit or attending an upcoming event.

admissions@carlow.edu
+1 (412) 578-6059

Empower patients as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)

The Family Nurse Practitioner Post-Master’s Certificate allows students who already have a Master’s of Science in Nursing to be certified as nurse practitioners for individuals and families. The post-master’s certificate will prepare you for advanced practice nursing in home health agencies, physicians’ offices, health maintenance organizations, family health centers, and clinics in both urban and rural communities.

Upon graduation, you will be eligible to be certified as family/individual nurse practitioners across the life span.

As a certified nurse practitioner, you’ll diagnose and treat acute, episodic or chronic illness, working with a physician and as part of a health care team. Nurse practitioners may order, perform or interpret diagnostic tests such as lab work and X-rays and may prescribe medication.

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A Carlow students sits at her desk with her laptop. Her hands are folded and she is smiling at the camera.
Credits required:

36 credits

Cost per credit:

$918/credit

Time to degree:

As few as 27 months

Delivery:

On campus or online

Post-Master’s Certificate for Family Nurse Practitioner curriculum

You will complete 36 course credits as well as 600 clinical hours, which may take place in a variety of urban and rural health care agencies in the Pittsburgh region.

Quick facts

A family nurse practitioner student leans on a table in our simulation lab. A simulation dummy is pictured in the background.

Alternate certificate completion option

Online Certificate

Gain the knowledge you need at your convenience with our online certificate option. When applying, indicate your interest in the online option.

Career opportunities for Family Nurse Practitioners

Employment of nurse practitioners is projected to grow 45% from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Admission requirements and application process

You can apply for free online, and must submit the following materials:

  • Official transcripts from all degree-granting institutions you have attended
  • Personal essay that describes your academic objectives
  • Current resume or curriculum vitae
  • Two letters of recommendation  (one must be from a supervisor)  that address your leadership potential and ability to succeed in graduate-level work

Also, you must have:

  • A current, valid and unrestricted license as a registered nurse
  • Completed an approved undergraduate statistics course
Apply

anytime

Start terms:

Fall & Spring

An undergraduate and graduate GPA of 3.0 or higher is preferred; however, provisional admission is also possible if you do not meet all of the admission criteria but exhibit a strong possibility of academic success. No GRE or GMAT required. 

Once your application is received, the program director will schedule an interview with you.

Family Nurse Practitioner faculty

Contact Admissions

If you are interested in this certificate program, our Admissions team is available to assist you with the next steps.

admissions@carlow.edu
+1 (412) 578-6059

Advance your career as a women’s health nurse practitioner (WHNP)

The Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner Post-Master’s Certificate allows students who already have a Master’s of Science in Nursing to be certified as nurse practitioners for women’s health. The post-master’s nursing certificate will prepare you for advanced practice nursing in OB/GYN offices, hospital-based women’s clinics, inpatient prenatal and postpartum settings, and clinics in both urban and rural medically underserved communities.

Graduates are eligible to be certified as women’s health nurse practitioners across the life span.

Once certified, women’s health nurse practitioners work in a variety of settings where they provide preventive care such as well-woman exams, breast cancer screenings, Pap tests or contraceptive care. WHNPs may also provide adolescent health care, pregnancy testing, fertility evaluation, prenatal visits, after-pregnancy care and menopausal care.

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A Carlow students sits at her desk with her laptop. Her hands are folded and she is smiling at the camera.
Credits required:

35 credits

Cost per credit:

$918/credit

Time to completion:

As few as 27 months

Delivery:

On campus or online

Post-master’s nursing certificate curriculum

You will complete 35 course credits as well as 600 clinical hours, which may take place in a variety of urban and rural health care agencies in the Pittsburgh region.

Quick facts

A nursing student in a gray blazer leaning on a railing on Carlow University's campus, near Fifth Avenue.

Alternate certificate completion option

Online Certificate

Gain the knowledge you need at your convenience with our online certificate option. When applying, indicate your interest in the online option.

Career Opportunity

Employment of nurse practitioners is projected to grow 45% from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Admission requirements and application process

You can apply for free online, and must submit the following materials:

  • Official transcripts from all degree-granting institutions you have attended
  • Personal essay that describes your academic objectives
  • Current resume or curriculum vitae
  • Two letters of recommendation  (one must be from a supervisor) that address your leadership potential and ability to succeed in graduate-level work

Also, you must have:

  • A current, valid and unrestricted license as a registered nurse
  • Completed an approved undergraduate statistics course
Apply

anytime

Start term:

Fall

An undergraduate and graduate GPA of 3.0 or higher is preferred; however, provisional admission is also possible if you do not meet all of the admission criteria but exhibit a strong possibility of academic success. No GRE or GMAT required.

Once your application is received, the program director will schedule an interview with you.

Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner faculty

Contact Admissions

If you are interested in this certificate program, our Admissions team is available to assist you with the next steps.

admissions@carlow.edu
+1 (412) 578-6059

Earn a certificate in Alcohol and Drug Counseling

Carlow’s drug and alcohol counseling certificate is a three-course sequence for new as well as veteran clinicians who want to enhance their knowledge and understanding of addictions. You’ll build the foundation for competency in drug and alcohol counseling through three online courses. You’ll earn required licensure Continuing Education Units (CEUs), or you can apply the credits to a graduate program.

Apply
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A student gazes out of a window at sunset. The reflection show in the glass behind her.
In Grace Library, spanning the third and fourth floor of the University Commons, there are numerous quiet spaces and study rooms for individuals and groups to use.
Credits required: 

12 credits

Cost per credit: 

$929/credit

Time to completion:

As few as 3 semesters

Delivery:

100% online

Curriculum for drug and alcohol counseling certificate

view plan of study

The three certificate courses are Introduction to Substance Abuse Counseling, Substance Abuse Counseling Theories and Interventions, and Co-occurring Disorders: Counseling Clients with Substance Abuse and Psychiatric Disorders.

Quick facts

  • Learn at your own pace
  • Apply earned credits toward a master’s or doctoral degree
  • Gain required CEUs for licensure
Personal experience. Handsome bearded young man telling his story and sharing the personal experience while participating in a group therapy session

Career opportunities for Certificate in Alcohol and Drug Counseling

Employment of substance abuse and mental health counselors is projected to grow 25% from 2019 to 2029, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Admission requirements and application process

You can apply for free online, and must submit the following materials:

  • Official transcripts from all degree-granting institutions you have attended
  • Personal essay that describes your academic objectives
  • Current resume or curriculum vitae
  • Two letters of recommendation that address your leadership potential and ability to succeed in graduate-level work
Apply

anytime

Start terms:

Fall, Spring & Summer

An undergraduate and graduate GPA of 3.0 or higher is preferred; however, provisional admission is also possible if you do not meet all of the admission criteria but exhibit a strong possibility of academic success.

Counseling faculty

Contact Admissions

If you are interested in this graduate certificate program, our Admissions team is available to assist you with the next steps.

admissions@carlow.edu
+1 (412) 578-6059

Prepare for your principal certification

Carlow’s Graduate Certificate in Educational Leadership with Principal Certification Prep will prepare you for the required licensure test in Pennsylvania. You’ll be prepared to become a school leader with the knowledge, skills and disposition needed to respond to educational challenges with an equity lens. 

Carlow’s collaboration with area schools will give you access to meaningful internship experiences alongside mentor principals.

Apply
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A Carlow students smiles at the camera during class. She is surrounded by other classmates.
Credits required:

18 credits

Tuition Cost:

$600/credit

Time to completion:

As few as 12 months

Delivery:

On campus or online

Principal Certification curriculum

The curriculum includes specialized coursework in improvement science, systems thinking and building networked communities. Test-prep resources and seminars are aligned to the licensure exam. Principal certification in Pennsylvania requires a master’s degree. If you already have a master’s degree, completion of these 18 credits and the state licensure exam results in certification. The 18 credits may also be completed as part of the full master’s degree in educational leadership.  

Completion of courses results in graduate credits that can either be transferred into a full educational program or account for required licensure continuing education units.

Quick facts

  • Be prepared for Pennsylvania licensure exam
  • Complete internships with mentor principals
  • Learn through innovative coursework

Career opportunities for certified principals

The career outlook for education management is bright. With your state license, you can become a principal, program director or administrator. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that employment of elementary, middle and high school principals is projected to grow 4% from 2019 to 2029.

Admission requirements and application process

You can apply for free online and must submit the following materials:

  • Official transcripts from all degree-granting institutions you have attended
  • Personal essay that describes your academic objectives
  • Current resume or curriculum vitae
  • Two letters of recommendation that address your leadership potential and ability to succeed in graduate-level work
Apply by

anytime

Start terms:

Fall & Spring

An undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher is preferred; however, provisional admission is also possible if you do not meet all of the admission criteria but exhibit a strong possibility of academic success.

Principal Certification faculty & staff

Contact Admissions

If you are interested in this graduate certificate program, our Admissions team is available to assist you with the next steps.

admissions@carlow.edu
+1 (412) 578-6059

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Follow us and stay up-to-date on events and opportunities to learn more about our program and faculty.

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Improve opportunities: Graduate certificate in Autism Teaching

Carlow’s graduate certificate in Autism Teaching is a four-course sequence that will train you in the competencies set forth by the Pennsylvania Department of Education for the Autism Spectrum Disorders Endorsement. The program will teach you to design effective programs for students identified with an autism spectrum disorder. Parents, counselors and others can take these courses, but they are not eligible for the endorsement.

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A Carlow students sits at her desk with her laptop. Her hands are folded and she is smiling at the camera.
Credits required:

12 credits

Cost per credit: 

$600/credit

Time to completion:

As few as 12 months

Delivery:

100% online

Graduate certificate in Autism Teaching curriculum

view plan of study

The evidence-based practices you’ll learn include Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), TEACCH, Early Start Denver Model, Discrete Trial Training (DTT), Verbal Behavioral Intervention (VBI), Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) and Pivotal Response Training (PRT). You will have opportunities to conduct Functional Behavior Assessments (FBAs) and develop resulting Behavior Interventions. Assistive technologies including augmentative communication systems are covered as well.

Quick Facts

  • Earn Pennsylvania Department of Education endorsement
  • Enhance your skill in a high-demand field
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Career opportunities for graduate certificate in autism teaching

It’s estimated that more than 1% of U.S. children are diagnosed with autism, which has contributed to a high demand for qualified professionals in the field. Carlow’s graduate certificate program in Autism Teaching will prepare you for such positions as special education teacher, behavior analyst, autism spectrum disorder specialist, behavioral interventionist and child advocate.

Admission requirements and application process 

You can apply for free online, and must submit the following materials:

  • Official transcripts from all degree-granting institutions you have attended
  • Personal essay that describes your academic objectives
  • Current resume or curriculum vitae
  • Two letters of recommendation that address your leadership potential and ability to succeed in graduate-level work
Apply

anytime

Start terms:

Fall, Spring & Summer

An undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher is preferred; however, provisional admission is also possible if you do not meet all of the admission criteria but exhibit a strong possibility of academic success.

Autism Teaching faculty & staff

Contact Admissions

If you are interested in this graduate certificate program, our Admissions team is available to assist you with the next steps.

admissions@carlow.edu
+1 (412) 578-6059

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Follow us and stay up-to-date on events and opportunities to learn more about our program and faculty.

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Improve outcomes for students with dyslexia with MEd in Curriculum & Instruction

With Carlow’s Dyslexia Teaching certificate, you’ll be on your way to helping students improve their reading. You will take four courses aligned to the International Dyslexia Association standards for educators and teachers of reading. Nonformal educators, parents and community members are welcome as well. The program has long-standing community partnerships in the Pittsburgh area that result in workshops, activities and guest speakers.

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A Carlow student listens on his headphones as he works on his laptop.
Credits required:

12 credits

Cost per credit:

$600/credit

Time to completion:

As few as 12 months

Delivery: 

100% online

Graduate certificate in Dyslexia Teaching curriculum

view plan of study

The Dyslexia Teaching courses include phonological awareness, structured literacy, diagnostic assessments and multisensory teaching methods.

Quick facts

  • Take courses aligned with International Dyslexia Association standards
  • Help improve student outcomes

Career opportunities for Graduate Certificate in Dyslexia Teaching

With Carlow’s Dyslexia Teaching certificate, you’ll be prepared for advanced positions in education in public, private and nonprofit settings. Overall employment of special education teachers is projected to grow 3% from 2019 to 2029, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Standards. Demand for special education services and teachers should rise as disabilities are being identified earlier and as children with disabilities are enrolled into special education programs. 

Admission requirements and application process

You can apply for free online, and must submit the following materials:

  • Official transcripts from all degree-granting institutions you have attended
  • Personal essay that describes your academic objectives
  • Current resume or curriculum vitae
  • Two letters of recommendation that address your leadership potential and ability to succeed in graduate-level work
Apply

anytime

Start terms:

Fall, Spring & Summer

An undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher is preferred; however, provisional admission is also possible if you do not meet all of the admission criteria but exhibit a strong possibility of academic success.

Samantha Onstott stands in front of a brick wall holding a cake.
Olivia Miller, ’21, biology major and runner on the track & field/cross country team.

Make an immediate impact

MEd and Certificate graduate Samantha Onstott ’20 uses what she learned from her dyslexia classes daily. “The dyslexia program is broken down so you learn about dyslexia first, then how to work with students who have dyslexia based on scientific research. The smaller class sizes really let you experiment with multiple materials and learn at your own pace.”

Dyslexia Teaching faculty & staff

Contact Admissions

If you are interested in this certificate program, our Admissions team is available to help you with the next steps.

admissions@carlow.edu
+1 (412) 578-6059

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Explore the field of early childhood leadership

Studying for Carlow’s graduate certificate in Early Childhood Leadership, you’ll learn skills needed to evaluate early learning programs and will explore curriculum development and educational coaching.

If you hold a Pennsylvania Level I or Level II certification in Early Childhood, you are eligible for the Early Childhood Supervisor endorsement through the state Department of Education after successful completion of this program. The four-course sequence may lead to a Director Credential; the full Supervision program is extensive and leads to full certification in Early Childhood Supervision. If you do not have a current Level I or Level II certification, you are not eligible for the Supervisor Endorsement, but may complete the program to broaden professional knowledge, and a Carlow certificate of completion will be issued.

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A Carlow students sits at her desk with her laptop. Her hands are folded and she is smiling at the camera.
Credits required:

12 credits

Cost per credit: 

$600/credit

Time to completion: 

As few as 12 months

Delivery: 

On campus or online

Graduate certificate in Early Childhood Leadership curriculum

view plan of study

Courses focus on developmentally appropriate supervisory practices for each age group; trends and challenges in the field, as well as various types of programs designed for children in child care, Head Start, preschool and early intervention programs; and a case study of an operating early childhood program. An internship is required.

Quick facts

  • Complete 3 online courses plus internship
  • Earn endorsement through the state Department of Education (for Pennsylvania licensed teachers)
Female Teacher With Two Elementary School Pupils Wearing Uniform Using Digital Tablet At Desk

Career opportunities for Early Childhood Leadership certificate

The program will lead to a deeper understanding of the roles of center director, supervisor of Head Start/Early Head Start programs, classroom coaches and early childhood mentors.

Admission requirements and application process

You can apply for free online, and must submit the following materials:

  • Official transcripts from all degree-granting institutions you have attended
  • Personal essay that describes your academic objectives
  • Current resume or curriculum vitae
  • Two letters of recommendation that address your leadership potential and ability to succeed in graduate-level work
Apply

anytime

Start terms:

Fall & Spring

An undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher is preferred; however, provisional admission is also possible if you do not meet all of the admission criteria but exhibit a strong possibility of academic success.

Early Childhood Leadership faculty & staff

Contact Admissions

If you are interested in this certificate program, our Admissions team is available to assist you with the next steps.

admissions@carlow.edu
+1 (412) 578-6059

Follow us on social media

Follow us and stay up-to-date on events and opportunities to learn more about our program and faculty.

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