Program Overview

Special Education, Graduate Certificate

The Special Education, Graduate Certificate is designed for education professionals who hold a minimum of a bachelor's degree and seek to support students with special learning needs. This certificate does not lead to certification by the Oklahoma State Department of Education.

Certificate Details

• Department: School of Teaching, Learning and Educational Sciences
• College: Education and Human Sciences
• Available At: OSU Stillwater Campus

Certificate Type

The Graduate Certificate in Special Education is offered in conjunction with the following programs:

• Teaching, Learning and Leadership, MS - Special Education
• Teaching, Learning and Leadership, MS - K-12 Education
• Education, PhD - Special Education

Overview

This certificate trains and equips educators to work with students with disabilities across various K-12 educational settings. It provides foundational knowledge and skills to address academic, social, behavioral, and transition skills. The program prepares professionals who value diversity and advocate for quality educational opportunities for all students.

Coursework

The online graduate certificate requires 18 credit hours (six courses) of graduate-level coursework in special education. Credit hours are transferable to additional graduate degree programs.

• Select six courses from the following:
  • SPED 5123: Characteristics & Teaching Methods for Students with Autism Spectrum Disorders
  • SPED 5623: Characteristics of Students with Mild/Moderate Disabilities
  • SPED 5673: Improving Literacy Skills of Individuals with Disabilities
  • SPED 5683: Models of Instruction in the Inclusive Classroom
  • SPED 5723: Transition Into Adulthood for Individuals with Disabilities
  • SPED 5743: Planning, Compliance and Current Practices
  • SPED 5783: Assessing Students with Disabilities
  • SPED 5883: Classroom and Behavior Management
  • SPED 5993: Culturally Responsive Teaching in Special Education
  • CIED 5463: Reading & Writing Difficulties

Admissions Requirements and Deadlines

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, with applicants notified of admission status within four to six weeks of submission. To apply, submit:

• Graduate College application
• Transcripts from all previously attended institutions (undergraduate degree from an accredited university with a minimum 3.0 GPA required; admission with qualifications may be considered)
• Academic vita/resume
• Personal goal statement