Special Education Administration (Graduate Certificate)

The  Education Department offers a Graduate Certificate in Special Education Administration. This program allows educators to administer and lead special education programs. Students who pursue this Graduate Certificate must concurrently pursue the certification for a New Hampshire Special Education Administrator. In other words, the Graduate Certificate is coterminous with the credential.  When a student completes the Graduate Certificate they also complete the certification as a special education administrator.  These two cannot be uncoupled.

Admission Requirements

• Master’s Degree in special education.
• Possess a current credential/certification in special education area.
• A minimum of three years of successful teaching experience in special education (must have five years' experience for credential eligibility).

In order to receive the Graduate Certificate in Special Education Administration, the matriculated student must complete all requirements for New Hampshire state certification as a Special Education Administrator. At least 16 credits must be passed after admission to the Graduate Certificate program.

UNH courses used to meet the requirements for New Hampshire state certification as a Special Education Administrator are listed below. Since an M.Ed. in Special Education is required for admission, it is expected that matriculated students will have previously completed most of the Special Education courses at UNH or equivalent courses at other schools. Admitted students will work with their academic advisor to determine an appropriate plan of study based on prior coursework. Students typically need to complete between 16 and 24 credits to receive the certificate. 

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To meet requirements for New Hampshire state certification as a Special Education Administrator, students must also complete or have completed a course in Special Education Laws and Regulations.

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Equivalent courses are determined in consultation with an academic advisor.