The Advanced Certificate: Inclusive and Special Education (Non-Cert.) is designed to provide a sequenced program of study that provides the knowledge and competencies to effectively address the needs of individuals with mild to moderate disabilities in primarily inclusive settings.  This program is open to anyone interested in obtaining skills that are applicable in a traditional classroom setting, as well as a variety of non-classroom contexts.

The program will provide participants with more knowledge and clinical experience with which to create an inclusive classroom that incorporates the essential principles of Universal Design for Learning. Coursework in the program will provide participants with a deeper understanding of the range and characteristics of learning disabilities and tools with which to differentiate learning in and out of the classroom.

Upon completing the program, participants who already hold a teaching certification may be able to apply for an additional teaching certificate in Students with Disabilities at the grade level consistent with their initial classroom-teaching certificate. Note that obtaining certification takes place after the completion of this program and is something the student must complete individually. SUNY Potsdam does not recommend for certification as typical with other degree programs.

Requirements and Information

General Graduate Admission Requirements  Additional Admission Requirements  

1. Evidence of an earned master’s degree in education or equivalent from an accredited college or university
2. A minimum grade point average of 3.0
3. Submission of two professional letters of recommendation with cover sheets from persons who can provide information about the academic and teaching potential of the applicant (e.g., former or current professors, school administrator, or other professional references).
4. Two years of employment and/or experience in a formal setting with persons with disabilities

To request a waiver for the practicum, please submit:

1. Documentation of 1 year of satisfactory teaching experience
2. The content of two letters of recommendation should include exposure and/or experience with teaching students with disabilities, in either a special education classroom, an inclusive classroom, or other relevant professional setting(s)
3. Third letter (optional) addressing other experiences interacting with individuals with disabilities

A student who does not satisfy one or more of the above may, in some cases, be conditionally admitted.

Program Summary

Additionally, upon completing the program, students may be able to apply for an additional classroom-teaching certificate in Students with Disabilities at the grade level consistent with their initial classroom-teaching certificate. Note that obtaining certification takes place after the completion of this program, and is something the student must complete independently. SUNY Potsdam does not recommend for certification as typical with other graduate degree programs.