Early Childhood Special Education Certificate of Graduate Study

Program Overview

Rowan University's Early Childhood Special Education Certificate of Graduate Study (COGS) is an accelerated online program designed for professionals seeking to enhance their knowledge and skills in early childhood special education. The program comprises five courses totaling 15 graduate semester hours and covers topics such as characteristics of young children with disabilities, assessment and teaching methods, and supporting diverse families. Graduates are prepared for careers in early intervention, preschool special education, and other settings, with opportunities for advancement and enhanced employability in the field.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Overview:

Rowan University's Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) Certificate of Graduate Study (COGS) empowers education professionals with the knowledge and skills to enhance their understanding of early childhood special education. This certificate expands their employment opportunities and enables them to provide better services to young children with disabilities and their families.

Objectives:

• Enhance knowledge and skills in early childhood special education
• Expand employment opportunities
• Increase services to young children with disabilities and their families

Program Description:

The ECSE COGS is designed for early intervention therapists and instructors, professionals with diverse backgrounds in early childhood special education settings, and family members seeking additional expertise or training in this field. Students are equipped to support infants and toddlers in home-based and/or center-based Early Intervention, preschoolers (3-5) in preschool special education, and children with suspected but not yet diagnosed delays or disabilities across various birth-5 settings. It is important to note that this program does not lead to certification. However, teachers in the state of New Jersey may apply to the ECSE COGS program through the New Jersey Teacher Outreach Program (NJTOP®).

Outline:

Program Content and Structure:

The ECSE COGS is a part-time, accelerated online program comprising five courses, totaling 15 graduate semester hours.

Course Schedule:

The program is offered in a structured sequence, with specific courses scheduled for each semester.

Individual Modules with Descriptions:

• ECSE 10500: Characteristics of Young Children with Disabilities (birth - five) and their Families (3 S.H.
): This foundational course explores the characteristics, developmental milestones, and family dynamics of young children with disabilities from birth to five years of age.
• ECSE 10501: Methods for Assessing and Teaching Infants and Toddlers with Disabilities (3 S.H.
): This course focuses on the assessment and teaching methods specifically tailored for infants and toddlers with disabilities.
• ECSE 10502: Methods for Assessing and Teaching Preschool Children (3-5) with Disabilities (3 S.H.
): This course covers the assessment and teaching strategies for preschool children (ages 3-5) with disabilities.
• ECSE 10503: Supporting Diverse Families, Community Partnerships, and Transitions (3 S.H.
): This course emphasizes the importance of supporting diverse families, fostering community partnerships, and facilitating smooth transitions for children with disabilities.
• ECSE 10504: Self-Study Project Inquiry in Early Childhood Special Education (3 S.H.
): This culminating course provides students with the opportunity to conduct an independent self-study project, allowing them to explore a specific area of interest within early childhood special education.

Assessment:

Assessment Methods:

The assessment methods used in the ECSE COGS program may include:

• Exams
• Quizzes
• Assignments
• Projects
• Participation

Assessment Criteria:

Students are evaluated based on their:

• Knowledge and understanding of the course material
• Ability to apply concepts and theories to practical scenarios
• Critical thinking and problem-solving skills
• Communication and presentation skills

Teaching:

Teaching Methods:

The ECSE COGS program employs a variety of teaching methods to cater to the diverse learning styles of students. These methods may include:

• Lectures
• Discussions
• Case studies
• Simulations
• Online resources

Faculty:

The program is taught by experienced faculty members who are experts in early childhood special education. They are dedicated to providing students with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in their chosen field.

Unique Approaches:

The ECSE COGS program offers several unique approaches to teaching and learning:

• Accelerated Online Format:
The program is delivered entirely online, allowing students to complete their coursework at their own pace and on their own schedule.
• Emphasis on Practical Application:
The program focuses on providing students with practical skills and knowledge that can be immediately applied in their professional settings.
• Collaboration Opportunities:
Students have the opportunity to collaborate with peers and faculty members through online discussion forums and virtual meetings.

Careers:

Potential Career Paths:

Upon completion of the ECSE COGS program, graduates may pursue careers in various settings, including:

• Early Intervention
• Preschool Special Education
• Family Support Services
• Educational Administration
• Child Advocacy

Opportunities:

The ECSE COGS prepares graduates for a range of opportunities, including:

• Advancement in their current roles
• Qualification for leadership positions
• Enhanced employability in the field of early childhood special education

Outcomes:

Graduates of the ECSE COGS program are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and professional network to make a significant impact in the lives of young children with disabilities and their families.