Post-Master's PK-12 Special Education Certification

Today, almost every classroom has a number of students who have special needs from physical to intellectual to emotional disabilities or challenges. As a dedicated educator, you may often find yourself looking for resources that will help you effectively these students and help them learn successfully, whether in an inclusive environment or a special education classroom.

Saint Joseph's online Special Education program offers a Post-Master's PK-12 Special Education Certification, helping educators like you meet the demands of teaching learners with exceptionalities in a variety of school environments.

This online program is designed for teachers who have an initial teaching certification and a master's degree and want to add a PK-12 Special Education Certification. The 25-credit program includes a required 140-hour student teaching component in PK-12 classsroms, giving students hands-on experience in teaching students who have Individualized Education Program (IEP) plans. 

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What Sets Our Program Apart

  • Saint Joseph's Special Education certification program is designed to meet the needs of working professionals in the field looking to advance their careers. Courses in the master's program are fully online, with small virtual class sizes making it easy to connect with your professors and classmates to develop your network. Work at your own pace by choosing one, two or three courses per term. 

  • Taught by faculty who are experts in their field, the online PK-12 Special Education certification program will teach you inclusive teaching strategies and special education classroom management. Our graduates learn:

    • Current issues in special education
    • Diagnostic assessment and how to monitor progress
    • How to help students with high and low incidence disabilities
    • How emotional/social and behavioral disorders affect student comprehension

What Can You Do with a Post-Master's PK-12 Special Education Certification?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of special education teachers is expected to increase significantly in the next several years, as many school districts report problems in finding adequate numbers of certified special education teachers. As this demand for committed and compassionate educators grows, this PK-12 Special Education certification will allow you to directly help others and fill this critical need.

Students who earn this certification may go on to pursue jobs such as:

  • Special education teacher
  • Adaptive special education instructor
  • Early intervention specialist
  • Educational diagnostician
  • Special education administrator

Program Details

  • View required courses for this program in the academic catalog. Please contact us if you have any questions about the program curriculum.

  • Affordable tuition rates can be found on our tuition and fees website.*

    *Pricing does not include room and board, health insurance or any professional, clinical or transportation fees. Visit our tuition & fees page for a detailed breakdown.

    Financial Aid & Discount Eligibility: Financial aid and discount options may be available to you to help offset the cost of your degree. Explore your options on our financial aid page.

  • Graduate assistantships are offered on a limited basis. Please contact the program director for availability.

Admission Information

  • To be considered for admission you must have a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution with a demonstrated record of academic success.

    • Apply online.
    • Submit official college transcripts from all colleges attended.
    • Submit a personal statement.
    • Submit resume.
    • Submit one letter of recommendation.

    Visit our graduate admission information page to learn more about admission requirements, key deadlines and how to submit your application.

  • Graduate applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. New students may enroll in courses during the fall, spring or summer semesters.

    Start Terms:

    1. Fall: August and October
    2. Spring: January and March
    3. Summer: May

  • If you’re applying as an international student, you must provide proof of English Language Proficiency and Certification of Finances along with your application. Check the graduate admission page for additional requirements.

  • SJU is a Yellow Ribbon School that accepts GI education benefits. Our Office of Veterans’ Services can help you access and understand your benefits.

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