Master the strategies needed to support students with diverse learning needs. Our program allows you to gain specialized knowledge in special education law, policy and instructional best practices. Through hands-on projects, you’ll bridge the gap between theory and real-world application, ensuring you can immediately advocate for students in your current role.

Whether you are looking for an elective track within our Master of Education (MEd) program or a standalone professional credential, this certificate fits your schedule.

Who should enroll?

  • School administrators and curriculum directors
  • Practicing classroom teachers (non-licensure track)
  • Allied health professionals (OTs, PTs, school nurses and social workers)
  • Educational advocates and consultants

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Degree Details

Tuition

Tuition: $514/credit*


* Tuition rates are for the 2026-27 academic year. Additional fees and costs for course materials may apply. Total program cost and completion time varies depending on transfer credits and individual program plans. Tuition rates are subject to change. View the 2025-26 tuition and fees.

Curriculum

Visit our Catalog to view the program and course requirements, and learning outcomes. All courses in the certificate program may be applied to the master’s degree. Be sure to create your course plan in consultation with your advisor.

Certificate credits can also be applied toward the Special Education Academic and Behavioral Strategist Licensure program if you are currently a licensed teacher in Minnesota.

Accreditation

AAQEP logoThe Teacher Education program at the College of St. Scholastica is accredited by the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP) for a period of 7 years, from July 2019 to July 2026. The accreditation does not include individual education courses that the Educator Preparation Program offers to P-12 educators for professional development, re-licensure, or other purposes.

PART I: Publicly Available Program Performance and Candidate Achievement Data

Admission Information

Visit our admissions page for information about transcripts, online application, international admissions, financing, and the Center for Equal Access.

Admission Deadlines

This certificate has a rolling enrollment process that allows an applicant to start at the beginning of any semester. Please talk with your admissions counselor to obtain more specific dates.

Eligibility

New Students
  • B.A./B.S. degree from an accredited college or university
  • Minimum GPA of at least 2.8
Note: Meeting minimum entrance requirements does not guarantee admission.
Returning Students

A returning student is a student who was admitted and enrolled in a program at St. Scholastica but has been absent from the program for at least three continuous semesters, including summer. To return to the same program at St. Scholastica, a returning student must be in good academic standing and must apply for readmission to the College.

Meet Our Faculty

Experienced, Dedicated, and Distinguished Educators

Expect to be heard, to be challenged, and to be involved. St. Scholastica faculty are world-class scholars and experts in their field who invest in your success. Our values of community, respect, stewardship, hospitality, and love of learning reflect our faculty’s commitment to lifting up others and celebrating our common humanity.