Carlow College

What you'll study

The certificate requires 26 credits: 23 credit hours of coursework and 3 credits of student teaching. Courses run in accelerated eight-week online sessions. Coursework covers methods and practical application of research-based special education theory and methodology, including:

• Methods for students with mild/moderate disabilities
• Methods for students with severe and profound disabilities
• Adaptive and assistive technology
• Dyslexia supports and specialized dyslexia training
• Positive behavioral supports and positive behavior interventions
• Autism-related supports

Entry requirements

Applicants apply online and must submit official transcripts from all degree-granting institutions, a personal essay outlining academic objectives, a current resume/CV, and two letters of recommendation addressing leadership potential and readiness for graduate study. An undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher is preferred; provisional admission may be possible for applicants who do not meet all criteria but show promise. There are no program prerequisites or prior teacher licensure required. Start terms are offered in fall, spring and summer.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared to work as special education teachers in public schools at the preschool, elementary, middle and high school levels; other placements include private schools, child care services and institutional settings. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects modest growth in special education teaching employment, and demand is influenced by earlier identification of disabilities and greater enrollment of children with disabilities in special education.

Scholarships & funding angle

Carlow is an approved provider for the federal TEACH Grant. The published per-credit charge for this certificate is $618/credit. Prospective students should contact admissions for details on financial aid, grants, and any additional funding options.