Indiana Wesleyan University, Marion

Programme overview

This fully online Graduate Certificate in Special Education Training is an 18-credit-hour credential intended to help practicing teachers build practical skills for supporting students with exceptionalities. The certificate provides an alternative entry route into IWU’s Transition to Teaching (TTT) Special Education program, can be completed in 16–20 months, and locks in tuition rates for students who remain continuously enrolled.

What you'll study

The curriculum focuses on instructional methods, assessment, reading strategies, and behavior supports appropriate for P–12 students with disabilities. Course requirements listed for the program are:

• EDUT-563 | Learning Processes, Diversity, and Development of P-12 Students — 3 credit hours
• EDSE-515 | Foundations, Practices, and Skills of Special Education — 3 credit hours
• EDSE-525 | Providing Language and Literacy Instruction to Enhance Assessment and Data-Based Reading Interventions for Students With Exceptionalities — 3 credit hours
• EDSE-535 | Methods for Supporting Students With Behavioral Needs and Autism Spectrum Disorder — 3 credit hours
• EDUT-573 | Reading Strategies and the P-12 Learning Environment — 3 credit hours
• EDUT-583 | Methods and Assessment for P-12 Educators — 3 credit hours

Entry requirements

Applicants must hold a baccalaureate or graduate degree from a regionally or nationally accredited institution (accreditor recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and CHEA) with official transcripts sent directly to IWU. A criminal history background check consistent with School of Integrated Learning and Development (SILD) guidelines and a signed SILD FERPA Release form are required. Candidates should note Indiana state mandates call for expanded background checks for those working with students and that additional local school corporation background checks are likely before clinical experiences.

Career prospects

Graduates use the certificate to strengthen classroom practice and to prepare for licensure via the TTT pathway. Potential roles identified by the program include:

• Special Education Teacher
• Special Education Coordinator or Lead Teacher
• Curriculum Developer
• Special Education Teacher Assistant

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

Financial aid is available in the form of grants, loans, scholarships, veterans’ benefits, and employer reimbursement. The program lists tuition at $525 per credit hour and notes that applicable fees for resources and services may be assessed; students can request cost sheets or consult IWU enrollment for detailed cost and financial aid estimates.