The College of Education offers a 24 credit-hour program leading to a certificate of advanced studies (CAS) in special education. The CAS may qualify students for certification in grades 1-6 or 7-12 provided all other New York state certification requirements are met.

The CAS in special education is open to students who hold a baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution and have completed an M.S. in education from an accredited institution.

Application

The admissions criteria for the CAS are that candidates must:

• Hold a current, valid teaching certificate in either elementary or secondary education.
• Hold a master’s degree in education.
• Demonstrate a 3.0 QPA in the master’s degree.
• Meet prerequisite course requirements: two foundational courses — one in special education (e.g., EDU 539 Char of Students With Exceptionalities) and one in working/teaching diverse learners (e.g., EDU 528 Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion). The prerequisite courses may be taken at other universities (an official graduate transcript will be needed).
• Meet content requirements for 7-12 generalist.