Graduate Certificate in Special Education Online (Moderate to Severe)

Mild and moderate learning difficulties are high incidence exceptionalities and can include communication disorders (speech and language impairments), mild/moderate intellectual disabilities, emotional or behavioral disorders, cognitive impairment or a certain spectrum of autism. These programs are usually taught in an inclusive, self-contained, resource classroom or a combination of these settings.

These are different from moderate to severe (low incidence) exceptionalities which include intellectual disabilities, blindness, low vision, deafness, hard-of-hearing, deaf-blindness, significant developmental delay, complex health issues, serious physical impairment, multiple disability or a certain spectrum of autism. Individuals with moderate to severe exceptionalities are normally taught in a self-contained setting.

The moderate to severe special education certificate can provide career paths that have the potential to be rewarding and meaningful. You may find that being able to teach and lead a classroom of students toward a successful education and life to be emotionally fulfilling. Special education teachers can find careers not just in a traditional classroom, but also in nonprofit organizations, health agencies and clinics, government agencies or state programs that promote education and assistance for those with learning exceptionalities.¹ 

Moderate to severe special education teachers should embody specific skills, such as patience, creativity, strong organization methods and a calming nature. These skills can help teachers develop innovative productive styles that cater to the needs of their classroom and students. An intuitive teacher who has found growth in flexible communication skills may be better prepared to understand and support the nuances of their students’ behaviors.

Yes. Many states and countries offer alternative pathways to teacher certification for individuals with a bachelor's degree in a subject other than education. If you earned a bachelor’s degree in any subject, a certificate program in education can help put you on a path to becoming a certified teacher. Certificate programs help bridge the gap into teaching by focusing on pedagogy skills, licensure exam preparation and gaining teaching experience under the mentorship of an experienced educator. Be sure to check your state’s department of education, as each state has its own certification requirements. 

Individuals with a bachelor’s degree in fields like science, math, literature or history, who are passionate about teaching, can take advantage of these alternative routes to become certified teachers and contribute to the field of education. 

This can vary depending on several factors, such as the specific requirements of the program. Typically, graduate certificate programs have specific admission criteria, such as holding a bachelor's degree, meeting a minimum GPA requirement, submitting letters of recommendation and providing a statement of purpose. The program may also consider relevant work experience or prior coursework in education. Demonstrating your passion for special education, relevant experience and a strong commitment to the field can positively influence the admission process. Remember to thoroughly review the program requirements or fill out the form on this page and a university counselor can help you learn more about the specifics on getting into this certificate program at GCU.

The main difference between a special education graduate certificate and a degree program typically lies in the scope, depth and duration of study. If you are looking to gain training or knowledge in a specific career field, a certificate program may be right for you. Graduate certificates are often shorter and more focused on a specialized area of knowledge and skills, such as special education. This particular certificate only requires 18 credits to complete. It can enhance your expertise in a specific area of special education within a more condensed timeframe, while acknowledging that a traditional bachelor’s degree program typically entails a 120-credit completion requirement. 

However, earning a degree, such as a master's or doctoral degree in special education, can provide a comprehensive and in-depth study of the subject. Degrees typically cover a broad range of coursework and practical experiences. A degree program may be a great choice for those looking to pursue management or leadership-level positions. Degrees often take longer to complete than certificates. The choice between a certificate and a degree depends on your career goals, your time commitment and your desired level of specialization in the field of special education.

A mild to moderate special education certificate is specially designed to provide teachers with the necessary knowledge, skills and strategies to support and nurture students with high-incident disabilities. This moderate to severe program teaches assistive technology, modifications and accommodations to help educators create a safe and inclusive environment to those with greater exceptionalities. These students are typically in a self-contained setting.