Teacher Certification

Earning a special education graduate degree does not guarantee a special education teaching credential. Students (traditional and nontraditional) pursuing special education teaching certification (provisional, standard, alternative) should understand and follow guidelines established by the Oklahoma State Department of Education and OSU’s Professional Education Unit. Candidates pursuing special education teacher certification should also understand “highly qualified” status requirements.

Become Certified in Special Education

HB 1233 provides an alternative pathway to the special education classroom through the completion of provisional intensive preparation and university coursework. As a University Partner with the Oklahoma State Department of Education, this online Boot Camp is designed for education professionals who already hold a minimum of a bachelor's degree and are seeking a career in special education.

This Boot Camp program is delivered via three online graduate courses and a field placement. The Boot Camp core is offered each Spring semester and includes the following courses:

SPED 5620 Practicum with Exceptional Learners (2 credit hours; 30 hours field experience)
SPED 5683 Models of Instruction in Inclusive Classrooms
SPED 5783 Assessing Students with Disabilities
SPED 5883 Classroom and Behavior Management

For more information regarding this certification pathway, visit the Oklahoma State University Partnership website or contact the Special Education Program Coordinator.

Admission Requirements and Deadlines

Applications will be reviewed by October 15 and applicants will be notified of admission status within four to six weeks of submission.

To apply for the program, submit the following

Graduate College application
Transcripts from all previously attended institutions (undergraduate degree from an accredited university with a minimum 3.0 GPA required; admission with qualifications may be considered)
Academic vita/resume
Personal goal statement

Resources

Oklahoma State Department of Education Teacher Certification

Nontraditional Route to Special Education Certification (Boot Camp Completers)

Frequently Asked Questions (Highly Qualified Special Education Teachers)