Graduate Certificate in K-12 Cross-Categorical Special Education
Program Overview
If you’re looking to enhance your ability to work with learners with disabilities, but don’t want to commit to a master’s degree, consider a Graduate Certificate in K-12 Cross-Categorical Special Education. The curriculum for the graduate certificate has a strong foundation in current research in the field of K-12 Cross-Categorical Special Education, ensuring that you will be able to enhance your career with the most up-to-date knowledge possible.
What Will You Learn?
The need for educators who teach learners with mild/moderate disabilities becomes more critical every year. Severe shortages of qualified special education teachers continue to persist—locally, regionally, statewide and nationally. In addition to learning how to advocate for effective and responsive education for learners who experience mild/moderate disabilities, graduate students should gain the following from coursework in the K-12 Cross-Categorical Special Education concentration:
- A deep understanding of fundamental issues associated with teaching learners who experience a broad range of mild/moderate disabilities
- Specific skills associated with assessment and eligibility determination for learners who experience mild/moderate disabilities
- Knowledge of differentiated instructional methods needed to successfully teach learners who experience mild/moderate disabilities
Tuition, Fees and Time Frame
Knowing what to expect is important when planning for college costs. For more information, check our Tuition and Fees page.
Classes are 7 weeks. 6 start dates a year lets you start on your terms. 18 credit hours required in total.
FAFSA eligible. Graduate Scholarships available. No application fees or entrance exam required.
Duration
18 Months or Less
Admissions Requirements
Admission to the graduate program in K-12 Cross-Categorical Special Education requires meeting all qualifications for acceptance to the Missouri Western State University Graduate Program.
- Submission of application for admission to the MoWest Graduate Program.
- Minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.75.
- Statement of Purpose: A one-page narrative, which describes his/her purpose for seeking admission to a graduate program, as well as what he/she hopes to gain from the experience.
Program Graduation Requirement
- Earn a minimum overall GPA of 3.0 with no more than 6 credit hours of C in all required coursework.
University Graduation Requirements
- Satisfactorily complete all required coursework in the program;
- Earn a minimum of 15 credit hours.
Program Course Requirements
The following courses are required for this Graduate Certificate:
Required Courses:
| Course Number | Course Name 1 | Course Hours |
|---|---|---|
| EDU 574 | Collaborating with Families and School Personnel for Inclusion | 3 |
| EDU 675 | Assessment and the Identification Process | 3 |
| EDU 676 | Behavioral Management & Interventions | 3 |
| EDU 677 | Advanced Methods, Differentiation, and Instruction | 3 |
Select two courses from the following (6 total hours):
| Course Number | Course Name 1 | Course Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Fundamentals of Autism Spectrum Disorder | 3 | |
| Assistive Technology and Augmentative Communication in Inclusive Settings | 3 | |
| Preparing Students and Families for Transitions and Careers | 3 |
Total Credit Hours: 18
- 1In addition to the courses listed, students will be required to take an Orientation Workshop (EDU 500).
