Admission Requirements

Applications for admission to this advanced certificate program in the Department of Specialized Programs in Education  are made to the Office of Graduate Admission.  Admissions decisions are based on a comprehensive review of multiple criteria.  The department understands that any single criterion may not reliably predict a student’s potential for success in the program.  Students may consider applying even if they fail to meet one of the criteria listed below but feel that other aspects of their experience might compensate.  All individual cases will be reviewed by an Admissions Counselor before being referred to the graduate program for further review.

1. Applicants must have completed a master’s degree and a minimum of five years of full-time experience in a professional position in educational or non-educational organizations.  A master’s degree in business administration or accounting is preferred.
2. The application must also include the following documents and demonstrate evidence of essential leadership qualities and characteristics:
3. Official transcripts, with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0.  A minimum overall GPA of 3.0 on all undergraduate coursework or its equivalent (e.g., a 3.0 in a completed graduate program).  We encourage you to submit all transcripts from your undergraduate work and any graduate work for consideration.
4. Three completed department recommendation forms.
5. Current resume.
6. Statement of purpose.
7. Evidence of administrative certification, if completed.

Program Standards

The graduate director will review the academic standing of all graduate students at the end of each semester.  A student must maintain a 3.0 average to be considered in good standing.  Students who do not maintain a 3.0 average will be placed on academic probation.  Students who earn more than one C-, C, or C+ per semester, accumulate more than two C-, C, or C+ grades in their graduate coursework, or receive a D or an F in any course will be dismissed from the program.  In addition to the required GPA, students must demonstrate adequate competence and professionalism throughout all coursework and fieldwork.  If the director or program faculty determines that a student has failed to demonstrate this standard, they will be dismissed from the program.  Students may petition for readmission by following the School of Education Appeal policy.

Program Requirements

The program consists of 15 or 38 credits, depending on prior education and certification status.

Pre/Corequisite: Prior to graduation, candidates must have completed a minimum of 3 semester hours in governmental fund accounting or the equivalent at the graduate or undergraduate level.  

Graduation Requirements

1. Successful completion of 32 semester hours (Option 1) or 15 semester hours (Option 2) in required coursework with a minimum grade point average of 3.0.
2. Successful completion of 600 hours (Option 1) or 300 hours (Option 2) of internships in school district business offices.
3. Completion of all required Educational Law Seminars.

Teacher Certification Requirements

Upon successful completion of degree requirements, students will be eligible to apply for the University’s recommendation for New York state certification. Contact the School of Education Dean’s Office for information regarding any required Educational Law seminars* and other certification requirements. 

To be eligible for the certification, students are required to have passing scores on the appropriate New York State Teacher Certification Examinations (NYSTCE). Please contact the School of Education Dean’s Office for specific certification requirements.