Advanced Certificate in Adolescent Special Education (Grades 7-12)

This advanced certificate in adolescent special education (grades 7-12) is an 18-semester hour program designed for individuals who would like a concentrated study in special education, leading to New York State certification as a secondary special education generalist. Individuals must hold an initialprofessional New York State certification in childhood, middle childhood, adolescent developmental levels, or specialty certifications such as Art, Business, Health, Music, Physical Education, and TESOL.The mission of Hofstra University’s special education programs is to prepare professionals for the education of individuals with special needs. The participants in this program will pursue academic excellence and are dedicated to reflective, participatory, and collaborative processes within various settings and service delivery models. The advanced certificate program in adolescent special education provides in-service teachers with the skills and competencies necessary for effective instruction of students across the full range of disabilities. The assessment techniques and strategies used in identifying exceptional learners, research-based methodologies, and education, including collaborative consultation models and universal design for learning, are major components of the program.Special education builds upon general education, and all learners in this advanced certificate program must have this prerequisite preparation. Field experiences are linked to the courses within this advanced certificate program. A universal theme woven into the fabric of this program is an appreciation of diversity and the potential of every individual.

Applicants for admission to the Advanced Certificate Program in Special Education in the Department of Specialized Programs in Education must possess New York State classroom teaching certification at the childhood, middle childhood, or adolescent developmental level.Admission is based on a comprehensive review of multiple criteria, including the following:*Possess New York state classroom teaching certification at the childhood, middle childhood, adolescent developmental level, or one of the specialty area certifications such as Art, Business, Health, Music, PE, TESOL.A completed application form to the advanced certificate program;A minimum grade point average of 3.0;Completion of New York State Content Area requirements for SWD generalistThree letters of recommendation addressing the ’ ‘applicant’s potential to succeed in the teaching of students with special needs;A written personal statement of professional intent; andInterview with a faculty member in special education.TOEFL - 80IELTS - 6.5