Post-Professional Certificate in Special Education

Students build specialized expertise in supporting learners with disabilities through coursework grounded in the Science of Reading, positive behavior supports and data-informed instructional design. They gain hands-on experience assessing literacy skills, administering and interpreting educational assessments, and using evidence-based data to design targeted instruction and interventions. Coursework also emphasizes creating inclusive learning environments through effective classroom management, positive behavior strategies and ongoing progress monitoring to support students’ academic, social and behavioral success.

This certificate prepares licensed teachers to apply for endorsement in Special Education K-6 or 6-12.

Application materials include your unofficial transcript(s), personal statements, a resume/CV, and a recommendation. We encourage prospective students to begin an application, as the portal provides a clear overview of all application requirements, including the personal statement prompt.

Looking for the application deadline? See our Deadlines & Decisions page.

The Special Education Certificate is eligible for the Virginia educator discount for qualified applicants. Full-time educators, currently working in a public or private PreK-12 institution in Virginia may be eligible for a 25% discount. Participants must be Virginia Residents, can only take up to six credit hours per semester, and must be employed full-time in a Virginia PK-12 school.