Professional Certification (Advanced Preparation) in Childhood Special Education-Behavior Disorders for NYS Certified Teachers
Program Overview
This master’s degree program is designed for teachers who hold initial certification in Students with Disabilities (Birth to Grade 2 or Grades 1 to 6) and who seek to further their knowledge and skills in special education.
Coursework and Clinical Experiences
Courses are offered in the afternoon and evening. Some courses may be available in an online or hybrid format. Select courses have required hours of classroom experience (fieldwork) in a New York City public school. Students also participate in supervised teaching (student teaching and/or practicum) as the culmination of their course of study. Student teaching and/or practicum requires five full days per week for at least one semester.
Credits
30
Certification
Professional Certification in Students with Disabilities Grades 1 to 6
Eligibility and Admission Requirements
- New York State (NYS) initial or professional certification in students with disabilities grades 1 to 6 or birth to grade 2 or NYS permanent certification in special education, K to 12
- A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution with a Grade Point Average (GPA) of at least 3.0 or a master’s degree in special education (any age level) with a Grade Point Average (GPA) of at least 3.5
- Two letters of recommendation
- A statement of purpose that references your interest in Behavior Disorders
- An official Graduate Record Examination (GRE) score report (Waived for Spring 2025 and Fall 2025 applicants). Certified teachers who hold a graduate degree are exempt from this requirement.
To Apply
To start your application, visit the Hunter College Online Application.
When applying to this program under Program of Study, select School of Education – Special Education and Professional Cert in Special Ed. Please note your interest in Behavior Disorders in your statement of purpose.
Application Deadlines
Fall Start
- March 15 (Priority Deadline)
- April 15 (Extended Deadline)
Spring Start
- October 15 (Priority Deadline)
- November 1 (Extended Deadline)
Visit How to Apply for information about deadline extensions.
Related Programs
If you do not hold Initial NYS Certification in Students with Disabilities, review other programs in Special Education.