Professional Certification (Advanced Preparation) in Early Childhood Special Education for NYS Certified Teachers

 

Program Overview

This master’s degree program is designed for teachers who hold initial certification in Students with Disabilities (Birth – Grade 2 or Grades 1-6) and who seek to further their knowledge and skills in special education. This program will prepare you to support infants, toddlers, preschoolers and early elementary children and their families. You will be prepared to practice in inclusive, integrated, and self-contained classrooms, as well as homes and communities.

Coursework and Clinical Experiences

Courses are offered in the afternoon and evening. Select courses have required fieldwork hours in classrooms, homes, or community settings. Students also participate in supervised teaching (student teaching and/or practicum) as the culmination of their course of study.

Credits

30

Certification

Professional Certification in Students with Disabilities Birth to Grade 2

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 New York State (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 Early Childhood Special Education

To Apply

Applications are accepted each Fall and Spring semester.

We’re launching a new graduate admission application! The application will be available in late summer 2025. While you wait for the application to launch, view the How to Apply page for full application requirements. Join our School of Education email list for updates.

Application Deadlines

Fall Start

  • March 15

Spring Start

  • October 15

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.

Contact an Admissions Advisor

edadmissions@hunter.cuny.edu

Program Leader

Jamie Bleiweiss

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