PreK–12 Special Education
Initial Certification and Additional Certification
The Special Education Certification Programs are taught by experienced faculty who currently practice in the field. Their expert knowledge of evidence-based interventions incorporate active, self-directed, practical, and transformative learning experiences that align with principles of adult learning. Candidates gain a critical understanding of interventions that target areas of need and build on the strengths of all students in order to foster equitable educational outcomes for students with disabilities.
The theory-based curriculum includes:
- Universal Design for Learning
- High Leverage Practices
- Positive Behavior Support Interventions
- Disability Models and Critical Reflection of the Social Model of Disability
- The Implementation and Reflective Practice of Special Education Instruction/Intervention Strategies
- Ethics & Law
- Advocacy & Teacher Dispositions
- Special Education Assessment
- Development of a Personal Teaching Portfolio
- Theory-Based Fieldwork/Practicum
The program has been designed to meet the needs of busy working adults. It is offered online with required virtual classroom attendance to support learning.
Classes are offered in fall, spring, and summer semesters, and candidates can enter the program at any point throughout the year.
Students may complete the Master of Education with Special Education Certification by completing an additional three courses (9 graduate credits).
Initial Special Education Certification
Curriculum Guide
Courses Required for Initial Certification |
*EDG 589 Dimensions of Being an Ethical & Courageous Educator (Includes 20 hrs. of Observation) |
*EDG 537 Cognition & Developmental Psychology |
*EDG 546 English Language Learners in Inclusive Classrooms |
GELE 515 Teaching Reading and Language Arts to PreK-4 Learners |
EDG 565 Teaching Literacy Across the Curriculum for Students with Disabilities |
EDG 513 Students with High-Incidence Disabilities: PreK-12 |
EDG 514 Special Education Program Development & Evaluation: PreK-12 |
EDG 517 Positive Behavior Intervention Strategies: PreK-12 |
EDG 518 Students with Low Incidence Disabilities: PreK-12 |
EDG 564 Transition Services: PreK-12 |
GSPE 590 Special Education Student Teaching (12-14 weeks) |
Courses Required to Complete the MEd |
EDG 501 Educational Research |
EDG 521 Education and Social Policy |
EDG 540 Foundations in Education |
Additional Special Education Certification
Curriculum Guide
Education Courses Required for Additional Certification: |
EDG 513 Students with High-Incidence Disabilities: PreK-12 |
EDG 514 Special Education Program Development & Evaluation: PreK-12 |
EDG 517 Positive Behavior Intervention Strategies: PreK-12 |
EDG 518 Students with Low Incidence Disabilities: PreK-12 |
EDG 564 Transition Services: PreK-12 |
EDG 565 Literacy Across the Curriculum: PreK-12 |
EDG 582 Practicum in Special Education |
Courses Required to Complete the MEd |
EDG 501 Educational Research |
EDG 521 Education and Social Policy |
EDG 540 Foundations in Education |