Preschool Special Education Endorsement and Certificate
As an endorsement, this program is recognized by the Georgia Professional Standards Commission (GaPSC). As of Fall 2024, it is also a UGA certificate program. Therefore, completion of the program will be noted on the GaPSC certificate and on the UGA transcript.
The special education preschool endorsement is a three-course sequence (9 semester hours) with applied field experiences. This endorsement can be added to your teaching certificate in elementary education or special education.
With this endorsement, you may teach young children with disabilities at the preschool level in both inclusive and self-contained school settings.
Highlights
- High impact through early intervention
- Focus on applied research and evidence-based instruction
Curriculum
Your program of study includes three courses that give you a solid foundation in teaching methods and curriculum, followed by more specific intervention models and assessment procedures.
- EDSE 7100E: Foundations and Assessment in Early Childhood Special Education
Seminar in early childhood special education, including history of and rationale for early intervention from birth through age five, typical and atypical early development, family and diversity issues. Emphasis is on assessment, including screening and play-based assessment. - EDSE 7200E: Methods and Curriculum in Early Childhood Special Education
Program models, instructional methods, and curricula in early childhood special education. Emphases are on developmentally appropriate practice, family systems, diversity, transitions, and methods for collaboration. - EDSE 7160E: Early Communication and Language Development in Young Children
Formal and informal language assessment procedures; selection and implementation of appropriate assessment instruments and models; intervention models for diverse populations.
Our nationally recognized faculty will work with you to customize your degree program.
How to Apply
Current UGA Students
Currently enrolled Undergraduate UGA students who choose to pursue this endorsement/certificate should contact Jeannine Parry .
Currently enrolled Graduate UGA students who choose to pursue this endorsement/certificate should contact Leslie Moon .
Non-Degree Seeking Students
All applicants must complete a UGA Graduate School application .
- Select your campus from the drop-down menu.
- Select “Endorsement/Certificate” from the Degree Level drop-down menu.
- Then select the endorsement/certificate program from the Intended Program drop-down menu. (Preschool Special Education Endorsement/Certificate Program Code:
CERT_2PSE)
Deadline to Apply
Domestic Applicants
- Fall Semester: July 1
- Summer Semester: April 1
- Spring Semester: November 15
International Applicants
- Fall Semester: April 15
- Spring Semester: October 15
- Summer Semester: February 15
Applying for Graduation
All endorsement/certificate candidates must apply for graduation using the graduation application available in Athena upon completion of the last endorsement class by a given deadline for the semester in which they intend to graduate.
Deadline to Apply to Graduate
- If you are graduating in Fall semester, apply to graduate by October 15.
- If you are graduating in Spring semester, apply to graduate by March 15.
- If you are graduating in Summer semester, apply to graduate by June 15.
Additional Resources
Please use our online form if you have any questions for the department. Please be as specific as possible so that we may quickly assist you.
A close working relationship with your advisor is key as you progress through your program of study. Please note that most graduate students at UGA are not assigned to a faculty advisor until after admittance.
Almost all in-state students begin their studies at UGA paying limited tuition or fees. Please note that these amounts are subject to change and are meant to give prospective students an idea of the costs associated with a degree at the University of Georgia College of Education.
Students may qualify for a variety of assistantships, scholarships, and other financial awards to help offset the cost of tuition, housing, and other expenses.
Our students have a range of opportunities available outside the classroom as well, from professional organizations, experiential learning, clubs and other non-academic experiences.
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