Indiana Wesleyan University, Marion

Programme overview

This online Transition to Teaching (TTT) Graduate Certificate in Special Education prepares candidates for Indiana initial licensure by combining online coursework with embedded field experiences and a culminating student-teaching placement. The program is structured to be completed in approximately two years and includes background checks, fingerprinting, and required trainings as part of licensure preparation. Coursework is delivered from a Christian worldview by faculty with active special education experience.

What you'll study

The program totals 21 credit hours and includes the following courses:

• 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)
• EDSE-595 | Student Teaching: Special Education (3 credit hours)

Courses emphasize developmentally appropriate instruction, IEP development and compliance, classroom management, behavior intervention planning, and evidence-based literacy and behavioral supports. Most courses include required field experiences linked to course objectives; student teaching is a 14-week placement.

Entry requirements

Applicants must have already earned a bachelor’s or master’s degree in the subject area of special education. Candidates who do not meet that requirement are directed to IWU’s Special Education Teacher Training Certificate program as a pathway into the TTT certificate.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for licensure to teach students with mild exceptional needs in grades P–12. Typical roles include special education teacher positions in public, private, and charter schools; related possibilities include curriculum developer, special education coordinator or lead teacher, and special education teacher assistant roles. Many graduates continue in or transition into classroom teaching and some pursue further education or leadership roles.

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

Financial aid options include grants, loans, scholarships, veterans’ benefits, and employer reimbursement. The program offers a tuition guarantee that locks the tuition rate while a student remains continuously enrolled. Prospective students can request cost sheets or contact the Financial Aid Office via the student portal, phone, or email; most financial aid inquiries receive a response within 24–48 hours.