Exceptional Children Certificate

What is an Exceptional Children Certificate?

Exceptional children are individuals ages 0–21 with disabilities that may include learning disabilities, communication disorders, emotional or behavioral disorders, autism, and other conditions that require specialized teaching methods, facilities, or equipment to meet their educational needs. The Exceptional Children Certificate provides graduate-level knowledge and practical strategies to help educators effectively support students with exceptional needs and abilities.

If you are passionate about teaching children with exceptional needs and want to strengthen your ability to support their academic, social, and educational development, this certificate is for you. Educators who want to expand their knowledge of exceptional children and learn about current best practices will also benefit from this certificate.

Elective courses cover a variety of topics, including special education assessment, English language learners, low-incidence disabilities, special education in private schools, and other areas designed to strengthen your ability to meet the diverse needs of students. Whether you are new to special education or looking to expand your existing expertise, the Exceptional Children Certificate can help you develop the knowledge and strategies needed to become a more effective and responsive educator.

How do I Earn my Exceptional Children Certificate?

Enroll in at least 15 credits (Basic) or 24 credit (Advanced) from any of the courses below to complete the certificate program.

Basic Certificate

Enroll in both required courses plus at least three elective courses. Complete at least 15 credits for the basic certificate.
Advanced Certificate

Complete the Basic Certificate and at least three additional elective courses. Complete at least 24 credits for the advanced certificate.

Required Courses:

SED-901: High Incidence Disabilities
SED-907: Response to Intervention/Multi-tiered Systems of Support

Elective Courses:

SED-902: Public Law, Private Schools, and Special Education
SED-903: Adapted Physical Education: Inclusive Games and Sports
SED-904: Special Education Law and Ethics
SED-906: Cultural Reciprocity in Special Education
SED-908: Inclusion to Belonging
SED-909: Special Education Assessment Process
SED-910: Understanding Individuals with Special Needs (2 units)
SED-911: Low Incidence Disabilities
SED-913: Executive Functioning and Behavior Support Plans
SED-914: Collaboration in Special Education Settings
SED-916: Autism Spectrum Disorder
SED-917: Assistive Technology for Children with Disabilities
SED-918: Sensory Disabilities: Physical, Visual, Hearing, & Deaf-Blindness
SED-919: Transforming Classrooms for Students with ADHD
(Coming Soon) English Language Learners and Twice Exceptional

How do I Request my Certificate?

Complete the 2 required courses and at least 3 elective courses for the basic certificate (or 8 total courses for the advanced certificate).
Click to download the application form.
Return completed application form to CE office, as stated on the form.
Upon receipt of the completed application form, and verification of successful completion of the 15 units for the basic certificate (or 24 units for the advanced certificate), the certificate is awarded and posted to the participant’s transcript.

Benefits of Earning Your Exceptional Children Certificate – 100% Online

Continuing education is made possible for elementary, middle and high school educators working with children with disabilities through Fresno Pacific University Continuing Education. The working teacher can seamlessly complete their certificate due to the benefits below.

Convenience

The convenience of completing courses online allows you to increase your skills while working full time.
Flexibility

Enroll in the courses one at a time and take up to an entire year to complete each one all from the comfort of your home.
Support

FPU has created a supportive online experience. Instructors are available to answer questions, give feedback, and provide guidance.
Affordability

Pay for each course as you go through the program. There is no need to fund the cost of the certificate upfront.
Expertise

Course instructors at FPU have classroom teaching experience and advanced degrees and are instrumental in the development of engaging courses.
Salary

FPU professional development courses can help you earn certifications and salary increases. Depending on your location, some school districts offer tens of thousands of dollars per year for course units.

What our Students are saying

This class was not difficult to complete and provided some excellent resources and information regarding all categories of disabilities. The professor was quick to grade the assignments and provided good feedback. I feel this is a course worth taking.

Teacher – New Jersey

I thoroughly enjoyed this course. I find the information was extremely useful and relatable to the current climate of the US and my district. I feel as though I have added more tools to my toolbox.

Teacher – Massachusetts