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. A completed application form to the advanced certificate program.
2. A minimum overall GPA of 3.0 on all undergraduate course work, or it’s 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.
3. Proof of Initial/Professional New York state teacher certification in childhood (grades 1-6).
4. Three letters of recommendation addressing the applicant’s potential to succeed in the teaching of students with special needs.
5. A written personal statement of professional intent.
6. Interview with a faculty member in special education.

Program Prerequisite

• SPED 201 - The Exceptional Child Semester Hours: 3

• (or equivalent course)

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 - Total Semester Hours: 18

• SPED 246 - The Education of Students With Learning Disabilities and Other Associated Conditions Semester Hours: 3
• SPED 248 - Education of Students With Autism Spectrum Disorders Semester Hours: 3
• SPED 242 - Psychoeducational Assessment in Special Education Semester Hours: 3
• SPED 277 - Technology and Assistive Technology in Special Education Semester Hours: 3
• SPED 247 - Creating Effective Learning Communities: New Directions in Classroom Management Semester Hours: 3

•  

• SPED 219S - Student Teaching in Self-Contained Special Education Settings Semester Hours: 3

• or

• SPED 237A - Teaching Students With Disabilities Semester Hours: 3

Field Experience Prior to Student Teaching

Field experiences are integrated extensively into course curricula. Placements are arranged by the Office of Field Placement. Participation/observation field experiences which correspond to the childhood certificate holder are required in each of the following courses:

• SPED 242 - Psychoeducational Assessment in Special Education Semester Hours: 3

• 15 hours of individualized assessment with a student with special learning needs

• SPED 248 - Education of Students With Autism Spectrum Disorders Semester Hours: 3

• 20 hours of participant observation at a school and board meeting for children with autism

• SPED 277 - Technology and Assistive Technology in Special Education Semester Hours: 3

• 15 hours of site visitation at a center wherein students with disabilities use assistive technology

Graduation Requirements

1. Completion of 18 s.h. with no fewer than 15 s.h. in-residence.
2. A minimum GPA of 3.0 in overall graduate course work.
3. Completion of all required Educational Law Seminars.
4. All course work taken in satisfaction of the degree requirements must have been completed within a five- year period.

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.