Why earn this special education certificate?

Early grades set the stage for lifelong success. When young students with disabilities fall behind now, catching up later is tough. The Special Education – General Curriculum Elementary (K–6) Certificate equips licensed elementary education teachers to keep every child on pace while instilling confidence.

This 100% online graduate certificate program is designed for teachers licensed in elementary education who seek an add-on endorsement in Special Education – General Curriculum Elementary Education (K-6). To be eligible for the Special Education – General Curriculum Elementary Education (K-6) Add-On Endorsement, applicants must hold an active teaching license in Elementary Education.

• Champion inclusion. Acquire a repertoire of evidence-based strategies to teach reading, math, science, and social studies in collaborative settings—no watered-down content.
• Master writing high-impact IEPs. Use screening and progress-monitoring data to develop individualized education programs for students who require additional support to master the general curriculum.
• Lead with legal know-how. Understand the core principles of IDEA to ensure the rights of students with disabilities and their families are upheld.
• Advance your career. Add a high-demand endorsement that expands your career options and equips you to meet the diverse needs of students with disabilities accessing the general curriculum in K-6 classrooms.

Courses run in seven-week blocks, letting you finish this online special education certificate in about a year while you keep teaching. Faculty are veteran leaders in special education who have experience writing IEPs and supporting exceptional learners accessing the general curriculum, giving you tools you can use in your own classroom the very next school day.

Certificate courses can count towards the MEd in Special Education or be combined with another graduate education certificate in the Build-Your-Own MEd.