Acquire the necessary skills to identify and evaluate the needs of students with moderate and severe disabilities with our online special education certification program.
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Program Details
Next Start Date: 1/15/2025
Course Length: 8 Weeks
Estimated Length: 1 Year
Certificate – Moderate & Severe Disabilities (P-12) Overview
Campbellsville University’s online certification in moderate and severe disabilities prepares you to identify and assess the needs of students with physical disabilities, mental challenges or autism spectrum disorders and plan their instruction and assessments. You will learn the instructional models, classroom strategies and characteristics related to students with moderate and severe disabilities. You will also study the characteristics and prevalence of students with autism spectrum disorder. You’ll explore the best practices for instruction planning and the research-based strategies for communication and social interactions with regard to sensory differences. Additionally, the fully online curriculum allows you to study whenever it’s convenient to you, and you’ll learn from faculty members who have real-world experience in education.
In addition, our online special education certificate program teaches you about applied behavior analysis; the interconnections between biological, cognitive, social and emotional disorders; and the community agencies and services that work with children and young adults who have moderate and severe disabilities and their parents. The certification includes a practicum that provides real-world opportunities in which you can apply your knowledge and skills into practice with students.
You can choose one of three options for completing the program: certification only (21 credit hours), as a certification component to the Master of Arts in Special Education Teacher Leader program (30 credit hours) or as a specialty option for the Master of Arts in School Improvement Rank I program (30 credit hours).
Campbellsville University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). Campbellsville’s education programs are accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) and are approved by the Education Professional Standards Board of Kentucky (EPSB) for teacher education and certification.
Course Map
Seven classes totaling 21 credit hours make up the online certification for moderate & severe disabilities. The certification takes approximately a year to complete.
Take all of the following:
- SED 720: Curriculum & Instruction for MSD and Autism Spectrum Disorder
- SED 730: Introduction to Autism Spectrum Disorders
- SED 740: Assistive Technology & Communication Interventions for Students with MSD
- SED 750: Transition and Other Services for Students with Moderate and Severe Disabilities
- SED 760: Applied Behavior Analysis
- SED 770: Assessment of Individuals with Moderate Severe Disabilities
- SED 780: MSD Graduate Practicum
Admissions Requirements
In order to apply to Campbellsville University’s accredited special ed. certificate online, prospective students must submit or complete the following:
- Complete the online application
- All official college transcripts
- 2.75 overall GPA from their undergraduate studies or a 3.0 in their last 30 hours
- Master’s degree or planned fifth-year program
- Copy of teaching certificate with LBD certification
- Submission of a complete statement of purpose regarding enrollment in the certificate program
*Some additional requirements will be requested upon acceptance into the program.
Costs & Financial Aid
The online special education certificate program costs $310 per credit hour. In order to help students afford their education, Campbellsville University’s staff is available to work with students to discover available financial aid options.
Students can fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to find out what scholarships, grants, loans and payment plans are available for them. There are numerous options available, and not all financial aid is based on need.
Students can transfer a maximum of nine credit hours from a regionally accredited college or university.
Campbellsville University is a military-friendly school and a proud member of the Yellow Ribbon program. Students who are currently serving at home or abroad or are veterans can further their education in a conducive online environment.
Careers in Special Education
After earning this special ed. certificate online, you can pursue a career as a special education teacher. As of May 2017, special education teachers earned a median annual salary of $58,980, and employment for the position is expected to grow 8 percent through 2026, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Why Choose CU?
Campbellsville University Online seeks to provide an affordable faith-based education that fosters personal and professional growth for its students. Learning in small, 100% online classes, you'll have opportunities to connect one-on-one with expert professors who prioritize your success and value the experience you bring to the table. From day one, you'll also benefit from Campbellsville's student services, including a personal online academic advisor who will provide tailored assistance on your journey toward graduation. Access further support in the areas of mental health, career and finance, life management, technical resources and more. Finish strong with CU.
Learn MoreBenefits of Learning Online
Choosing to finish your degree 100% online means having the flexibility to study at the times and places that are most convenient for you. You'll learn from supportive, expert faculty members who are experienced in their fields and deliver the wellrounded education you need to take the next step in your career. Campbellsville is committed to the quality of its online courses and offers a dynamic selection of degree programs that are accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions? We’re here to help. Visit our Frequently Asked Questions page for more information.
- Yes, you can. CU honors your educational journey with a generous transfer credit policy that empowers you to make the most of your earned credits. Upon your admission to Campbellsville University, we'll complete a transfer credit evaluation to find out how many of your credits will apply toward your degree. For more information, visit our transfer students page.
- Yes. Your first step is to complete the FAFSA form, and then we will determine your eligibility for any financial aid. Our school code is 001959. Visit our financial aid page to learn more about your options, which include scholarships and grants.
- You can apply to our 100% online degree programs through the online application form. Remember to submit official copies of your high school and/or college transcripts, along with any other required documentation that is specific to your degree program. You can visit the admissions process page to learn more about what to expect throughout the process.