Admission Requirements

Applications for admission to this advanced certificate program in the Department of Specialized Programs in Education  are made to the Graduate Admission Office. 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 GPA or testing criteria 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. A master’s degree.
2. New York State classroom teaching certification at the early childhood developmental level (birth-grade 2), childhood (grades 1-6), or in students with disabilities (grades 1-6).
3. A completed application form to the advanced certificate program.
4. 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.
5. Two letters of recommendation addressing the applicant’s potential to succeed in the teaching of young students with disabilities.
6. A written personal statement of professional intent.
7. Interview with a faculty member in special education.

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 - Semester Hours: 18

• SPED 207 - Introduction to Young Children With Disabilities Semester Hours: 3
• SPED 208 - Educational Intervention for Young Children With Disabilities Semester Hours: 3
• SPED 209 - Early Intervention: Infant Stimulation Semester Hours: 3
• SPED 216 - Assessment and Diagnosis in Early Childhood Special Education Semester Hours: 3
• SPED 226 - Early Intervention and Related Services in Early Childhood Special Education Semester Hours: 3
• SPED 295 - Practicum in Special Education Semester Hours: 3

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.