Online Early Childhood Special Education Certificate Program Overviews

Future or current special education teachers can take advantage of online certificate programs in early childhood special education, which typically take 1-2 years to complete. Programs give students the tools to work with special needs children on socialization and academic achievement of children through age eight.

Online Certificate Programs in Early Childhood Special Education Overview

Students pursuing an early childhood special certificate are often future or currently employed teachers looking for educational enhancement and career advancement. Certificates prepare students for working with academically, socially and behaviorally challenged students from birth to eight years of age. A bachelor's degree is a prerequisite.

Program Information and Requirements

A certificate program typically takes 1-2 years to complete. Individual interested in distance learning can take advantage of online or hybrid program options. Students need a computer with Internet access. Instructors blend traditional texts with contemporary online learning technologies, such as a course management system and online presentations.

List of Courses in Early Childhood Special Education at the Certificate Level

Courses focus on the education of academically and emotionally challenged students. Current teaching trends in special education and the role of diagnostic testing are topics of interest.

Autism in the Classroom Course

This course gives educators the skills for educating children with autism, which typically begins to manifest in early childhood. A brief history of the disorder, current assistive technologies, augmentative communication, positive behavior support and implementation of functional behavior are all focal points.

Teaching Reading to Special Needs Students Course

This course focuses on teaching literacy and reading skills to developmentally challenged students. Students look at case studies and identify contemporary trends in the language arts curricula for challenged students. Mentoring strategies for young special education students are also covered.

Current Diagnostic Tools Course

Formal assessment, boundaries of special needs, the relationship between assessment and instruction and educational problem-solving are all topics of focus. Students also engage in field-based clinical assignments.

Career Info

Individuals aspiring to teach special education predominantly have master's degrees. In addition, teachers much be licensed by their state and may be subject to further and continuing teacher education. Special education teachers may have their own classes and classroom, or they may work with students one-on-one. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported an expected 20% increase in special education teachers at the kindergarten and elementary school level, and reported their annual median salary to be $50,200 (www.bls.gov).