Graduate Certificate in Leadership in Special and Inclusive Education

The Leadership in Special & Inclusive Education Graduate Certificate program helps position educators, leaders, and advocates to lead change and innovation in special education.  The certificate grounds leaders in special education policy and law, while exploring advancements in systems change, research, and policy implementation. Graduates will gain a deep understanding of inclusive leadership and methods for reform. Further, they will be prepared to lead and influence systems change in a variety of state, district, and/or school settings.

This certificate program prepares graduates to advance the rights of all students and confront biases about individuals and groups, including how those translate into identification and categorization of students. Program students will learn to identify and overcome the challenges of translating special education policies into socially just practice.   The certificate requires completion of 4 specific courses.

In order to be admitted to the online graduate certificate, a Bachelor’s degree is required.

This program WILL NOT lead to any initial teacher licensure/certification or endorsement for the state of Kansas. State-by-state requirements vary. Completion of a graduate certificate is not a guarantee of licensure or endorsement of any kind.  It is each student’s responsibility to determine the licensure and endorsement requirements in his or her state and to apply for the licenses or endorsements necessary for his or her career goals.

The Department of Special Education online programs are comprised of rigorous eight week courses. A majority of the work is completed asynchronously, meaning that it does not happen “live.” Courses are eight weeks long (2 courses per a typical semester) and typically contain multiple milestones throughout the course. Students are expected to follow the course modules in order, submit assignments on time, and participate in online discussions with classmates. Potential students must ensure that they are prepared to be successful.  Online coursework will require approximately 15- 20 hours of undivided attention per week (including readings, online discussions, individual projects, etc.).  Consistent access to high speed internet services (basic broadband- 1Mbps) and a personal computer that features Office 2016 or equivalent will be necessary.  A tablet or mobile device (i.e., smartphone) will not be sufficient as a primary computer or primary means of accessing the Internet for the online coursework.