The Graduate Certificate in Advanced Leadership in Special Education is designed for school-based administrators, district-based administrators, special education P-12 teachers, leaders, and related service providers seeking advanced preparation in serving students with special needs. The program specifically prepares individuals for the addition of endorsements on the State of Alaska Type A Teacher and Type B Administrator credentials.
Admission Requirements
- Complete the Admission Requirements for Graduate Certificates.
- Submit an application to the Graduate Certificate in Advanced Leadership in Special Education.
- Hold a bachelor’s degree from an institutionally accredited institution.
- Submit proof of current teacher or administrator certification.
Special Considerations
- This program includes courses delivered by distance. Admitted students must have the technological knowledge and skills to engage in distance learning.
Graduation Requirements
- Complete the General University Requirements for Graduate Certificates.
- Complete the following major requirements:
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| EDL A621 | Leadership in Special Education | 3 |
| EDSE A602 | Best Practices in Inclusive Education | 3 |
| EDSE A610 | Clinical Assessment: Eligibility and Program Planning | 3 |
| EDSE A632 | Special Education Law: Principles and Practices | 3 |
| Total | 12 | |
A minimum of 12 credits is required for the degree.
State-Approved Verification Form
Following are the requirements for a state-approved verification form for the Advanced Leadership in Special Education Endorsement.
- Completed all program courses with a minimum grade of C.
- Received a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 in the program coursework.
- Posted Graduate Certificate on the transcript.
Requirements for endorsements within the state of Alaska can be found at the Alaska Department of Education and Early Development.
Please go to UAA's Authorization by State website for information about licensure or certification in a state other than Alaska.
Program Student Learning Outcomes
Student outcomes for this certificate are based on the National Educational Leadership Preparation (NELP) Program and the Council for Exceptional Children Standards. Students graduating with a Graduate Certificate in Advanced Leadership in Special Education will be able to:
- Apply leadership strategies that promote collaboration among stakeholders, including teachers, parents, and support staff.
- Analyze and address systemic barriers to inclusive education within educational institutions.
- Apply knowledge of diverse learning styles and disabilities to design and implement individualized educational plans (IEPs).
- Use evidence-based instructional strategies and interventions to support the academic and social-emotional growth of students with disabilities.
- Demonstrate the ability to assess student progress and make data-driven instructional decisions.
- Interpret assessment data to inform instructional planning and IEP development.
- Ensure compliance with legal requirements related to assessment and reporting for students with disabilities.
- Understand and apply federal and state laws related to special education, including the Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA), Section 504, and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).