Certificate in Computer Science Education

Our 100 percent online certificate program offers teachers a coherent set of courses that prepare them to teach computer science concepts, including content in the advanced placement courses and pedagogical techniques.  

There is a growing demand for computer science courses, including advanced placement courses, across the United States, and a growing demand for teachers with computer science knowledge to teach them. The United States is lagging behind other countries in computer science education and this certificate will help address that educational gap.

Who is this program for?

This certificate program is designed for:

• Current teachers at the secondary level, in any field/specialization
• Educators who provide computer science education to kids in out-of-school programs or camps

How long will it take to complete the program?

Following a part-time schedule of one class per term, this 12-credit program can be completed in four terms, or just under a year and a half.

Start Term

Students can start the Certificate in Computer Science Education during the spring and summer terms.

Admissions Requirements and Checklist

Course Descriptions

This program consists of four courses offered entirely online. All the courses, except for the Methods & Capstone course, align with the CSTA Level 3 standards for high school students. Each course will have a diversity strand that will help teachers address the needs of all learners and include pedagogical content knowledge. Teachers who complete the certificate will also meet the ISTE Standards for Computer Science Educators.

All courses may be applied toward the Master of Education degree program to meet elective strand requirements.

Sample Course Schedule

Spring Start

• Spring: Computational Thinking & Standards
• Summer: Computer Science Principles
• Fall: Programming & Teaching Java
• Spring: CS Methods & Capstone

Summer Start

• Summer: Computational Thinking & Standards
• Fall: Computer Science Principles
• Spring: Programming & Teaching Java
• Summer: CS Methods & Capstone

For additional information on this certificate program in an easy-to-read format, please read our Computer Science Education Gainful Employment Disclosure notice.