Alternative Certification for Special Education Teachers Certificate (Graduate)

Admission Requirements:

1. Completed Graduate Certificate Seeking Application
2. $36.00 (non-refundable) application fee
3. Official undergraduate transcript showing your degree awarded

Certificate Overview:

The Alternative Certification for Special Education Teachers Graduate Certificate is a stand-alone, stackable credential designed for certified teachers with at least three years of recent classroom experience. This program fulfills the coursework required to meet the South Dakota Department of Education’s requirements for earning a Special Education endorsement. The curriculum aligns directly with state standards for alternative certification and provides a structured path for teachers seeking to transition into special education roles. All credits earned through the certificate can be applied toward Northern State University’s M.S.Ed. in Special Education.

Student Learning Outcomes:

• Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of special education law, including compliance with IDEA and Section 504, and apply legal and ethical considerations when administering special education services in their schools.
• Skillfully utilize a variety of assessment tools and methods to accurately identify students with disabilities and plan individualized education programs (IEPs) tailored to their unique needs.
• Design and implement evidence-based instructional strategies that promote inclusion and meet the diverse needs of students with disabilities, fostering equitable and supportive learning environments in both special education and general education classrooms.
• Effectively apply their knowledge of special education practices in real-world settings through hands-on practicum experiences, demonstrating leadership and advocacy for students with disabilities in their schools.