The School of Education offers 15-credit graduate-level certificate in Special Education.
The Special Education Certificate program is innovative and meets the needs of busy professionals who need flexibility and practical application. The Certificate program is fully online, which is adaptable to the schedules of busy professionals.
HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE TO EARN THE SPED CERTIFICATE?
The Special Education Certificate Program is a 15-credit hour program (5 classes) that is fully online. You can develop a schedule of courses that works for you. To discuss options, contact Dr. Nicci T. Dowd here:
ARE CLASSES ONLINE?
Yes! The SPED certificate program is fully online, with asynchronous and synchronous sessions. Synchronous sessions meet in the evening using Zoom.
WHAT IS THE TUITION?
To learn more about tuition and fees. Visit the Student Accounts site.
Full-time Catholic school employees receive a discount.
WHY SHOULD I ENCOURAGE MY FACULTY TO OBTAIN A CERTIFICATE IN SPECIAL EDUCATION?
The certificate will provide students with specialized skills and knowledge in special education.
Students will be able to analyze data for decision-making and problem solving.
Students also have opportunities to serve others in a summer course in another country (Jamaica, Dubai, South Africa, Costa Rica, Panama).
Students are able to apply the certificate to the completion of a Master’s degree with licensure in education at Marymount.
HOW WILL THIS CERTIFICATION MEET THE NEEDS OF MY FACULTY, WHO ALREADY EDUCATE EXCEPTIONAL CHILDREN?
The Special Education Certificate program is innovative and meets the needs of busy professionals who need flexibility and practical application. The Certificate program is fully online, which is adaptable to the schedules of busy professionals. Another highlight of the program is its high-touch approach to online learning. Participants will have the opportunity to engage with peers, meet experts across the field of education, collaborate with local and international educators, and be fully supported by professors who will provide a wealth of knowledge, practical resources and be available for one-on-one consultations. In addition, if you are called to continue to learn more about Special Education, the certificate can be used towards recertification points or towards a Master’s degree with licensure in Special Education.
HOW ARE CATHOLIC IDENTITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE ADDRESSED IN THIS PROGRAM?
At Marymount University, our mission is guided by the traditions and long history of the Religious of the Sacred Heart of Mary, who continue to dedicate themselves to educating all in need. We are committed to continuing their work by offering a Special Education Certificate grounded in cutting-edge, research-based teaching practices that have immediate, real-life applications in every Catholic school classroom.
In each course, teachers will build specialized vocabulary, inclusive teaching practices and learn how to advocate for students. You’ll be equipped to carry out the Catholic teachings and renew your commitment to love each person in the image and likeness of God at each stage of life according to their human dignity.
Admission Requirements
Prerequisite: Prospective students need to have an introductory curriculum/instruction course or one year of validated teaching experience. Students may also take ED 551 Instruction and Assessment as a co-requisite to meet this entrance requirement.
*Students who have not completed an introductory curriculum/instruction course or one year of validated teaching experience will take a 3-credit prerequisite or co-requisite course.
Meet Our Faculty
We are thrilled to welcome you to Marymount University’s School of Education, where our mission is to empower those who are committed to making a positive impact in schools, families, communities, and organizations. Are you eager to learn with purpose? Are you driven to educate with purpose? Are you ready to lead with purpose? If so, you’ve found the right place!
Our School is a vibrant community of dedicated teacher-scholars who are not only experts in their fields but also passionate and innovative educators. We create learning experiences that ensure all students succeed. For decades, our faculty and staff have advised, nurtured, and inspired students, all while remaining deeply committed to our mission of Preparing Educational Leaders for Diverse Learning Communities. Through transformative experiences, we aim to deepen your knowledge and skills, empowering you to enact positive change as critical thinkers and compassionate practitioners. Our programs are renowned for their small class sizes and the personalized attention students receive from our expert faculty. Graduates of our programs leave with the knowledge, skills, and dispositions needed to make a difference, not only locally but across the nation and the world.
We encourage you to contact us with any questions or to request additional information about our programs, resources, or activities. Joining our vibrant community offers limitless opportunities for both your professional and personal development. We look forward to welcoming you to our School of Education!
Join us in making a difference!
Jessica Marotta, EdD
School Director
Student Testimonials
Special Education Experience by Ligia Rivas Correia
Your Questions Answered
Send your information to one of our specialists and we will contact you to have all your questions answered about this program:
