International Perspectives in K-12 Special Education Certificate

Program Description

This certificate provides coursework to improve or broaden the student’s cultural competence and understanding of special education and disability-related instructional practices. Students will receive exposure to international approaches to education for persons with disabilities, and will complete one education abroad experience with an emphasis on K-12 special education in an international setting. The goal of this certificate will be to broaden the graduate student’s perspective regarding education in the global society and the implementation of special education programs and services for children and adults with disabilities.

Admission Criteria

The International Perspectives in K-12 Special Education Graduate Certificate Program is open to all interested persons eligible for graduate coursework. International students must meet Missouri State University language proficiency standards through one of the following procedures: TOEFL-IBT score of 79, IELTS score of 6.0, or Missouri State English Language Institute (ELI) completion of Level 5; however, the language requirement maybe waived through successful interview with departmental committee.

Program Requirements - Credit Hours: 9

Required Courses

Requirement A: Foundation Course in Special Education - Choose One Course From the Following

SPE 780 may be used only for requirement A or B, but not both.

Requirement B: Diversity or Education or Child and Family Development course - Choose One Course From the Following

SPE 780 may be used only for requirement A or B, but not both.

Requirement C: International Perspectives in K-12 Special Education - Education Abroad course

SPE 640 - International Experiences in K-12 Special Education - Education Abroad

Note:

For international candidates who seek the certificate through contracted partnerships with Missouri State University, the SPE 640 International Experience will be provided in the Southwest Missouri region.

Requirement D: As Needed.

As needed. In the event that completion of required coursework does not result in minimum of 9 hours such as those student selecting to take SPE 607 for 2 hours of credit, students may select related electives as approved by the Special Education Program Coordinator or CLSE Department Head. Recommended electives include, but are not limited to:

Completion Requirements

Students must take a minimum of 9 hours as designated and approved, and must have an average cumulative grade point average of 3.0 or better in the courses required to receive the certificate. Students must satisfy all prerequisites for any courses they take in the program, or they must obtain instructor approval to waive any prerequisites.