Indiana Wesleyan University, Marion

Programme overview

This online graduate certificate prepares licensed Indiana or Ohio teachers for initial special education licensure to teach students with mild exceptional needs in grades P–12. The 18-credit-hour program is delivered fully online, taught from a Christ-centered perspective, and integrates virtual reality, video discussion, concept maps, demo videos and other technology-driven resources. Tuition rate is locked for students who remain continuously enrolled.

What you'll study

Coursework aligns with Council for Exceptional Children initial licensure standards, Indiana and Ohio state requirements, and CAEP advanced-level program standards. Topics and learning outcomes include:

• Foundations in language and literacy and Science of Reading–aligned instruction
• Research-based behavior interventions and classroom management strategies
• Ethical practices and culturally responsive instruction for diverse linguistic and cultural needs
• Individualized Education Program (IEP) development, compliance, and collaboration with families and related service providers
• Embedded field experiences and a 14-week student teaching (EDSE 595) with observation, evaluation, and feedback

Program courses listed include EDSE-510, EDSE-520, EDSE-530, EDSE-540, EDSE-550, EDSE-560 and referenced key courses such as EDSE 515 and EDUT 573.

Entry requirements

Applicants must hold a current teaching license in the state of Indiana or Ohio. Coursework is completed online, but most courses include required in-person field experiences (typically 20–25 hours per course) and a 14-week student teaching placement in an approved school setting. Most courses run eight weeks; student teaching is approximately 14 weeks.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for licensure to teach students with mild exceptional needs in P–12 settings. Career paths include special education teacher positions in public, private, and charter schools and roles such as department chair, program coordinator, adjunct faculty, or other instructional positions supporting diverse learners.

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

Financial aid options include grants, loans, scholarships, veterans’ benefits and employer reimbursement. The program provides a tuition lock for continuous enrollment and an estimated cost of attendance is available through the university; students can contact the Financial Aid Office for assistance (responses typically within 24–48 hours).