If you’re a teacher, you know how important it is to reach every student. But sometimes, even your best efforts aren’t enough when students have unique learning needs that require more specialized strategies. That’s when many educators ask themselves:
- How can I better support students with disabilities?
- How do I get a special education certification online—without stepping away from the classroom or committing to a full graduate degree?
If that sounds like you, there’s good news: You don’t have to choose between continuing your career and continuing your education. An online special education certificate can help you build the skills to make a meaningful difference—on your schedule and your terms.
Rowan University’s online Special Education Certificate of Graduate Study (COGS) is designed for general education teachers looking to deepen their understanding of special education, as well as special education teachers who wish to pursue further coursework at the graduate level. This certificate provides advanced content knowledge to strengthen your practice but does not lead to additional certification or endorsement.
Why More Teachers Are Pursuing a Special Education Certification
Today’s classrooms are more diverse than ever. More students are learning with diagnosed disabilities, behavioral challenges, or learning differences—and general education teachers are increasingly expected to meet those needs with skill and empathy.
Whether you’re a general educator looking to better support your students or a special educator who wants to grow professionally, earning a special education certification can help you:
- Deepen your understanding of how to support students with disabilities
- Learn evidence-based practices that make an impact
- Build confidence and expand your influence in your school
- Open doors to new roles and leadership opportunities
But between teaching, planning, and everything else on your plate, pursuing another degree might not feel realistic. That’s why more educators are choosing online certificate programs designed specifically for working professionals.
What Makes Getting a Special Education Certificate Online Worth It?
Flexibility matters—especially when you’re juggling a classroom and a life. The right online special education certificate gives you more than content. It gives you:
- Freedom to learn when and where it works for you
- Practical tools you can apply right away
- A pathway to grow your career without pausing it
- The support and structure to keep you moving forward
Of course, not all programs offer the same quality, credibility, or outcomes. That’s where Rowan University stands apart.
Rowan’s online programs are designed to meet the needs of real educators balancing work and life. With mostly asynchronous learning, you can engage with course content when it works best for you—without the pressure of set class times. You’ll also have access to a full range of student support services, including virtual tutoring, academic advising, and online workshops that help you stay motivated and on track.
What to Look for in an Online Special Education Certificate Program
A strong online certificate program should be more than convenient—it should be career-relevant, rigorous, and supportive. Look for options that:
- Are fully online with flexible, asynchronous coursework
- Offer graduate-level content and credits
- Allow you to continue teaching while you learn
- Can connect to future endorsements or advanced degrees
Rowan University’s online program checks all of these boxes.
Rowan’s Online Special Education Certificate: Designed for Teachers
Rowan University’s Special Education Certificate of Graduate Study is a fully online, graduate-level program designed for both general and special educators who want to expand their knowledge and impact in the field of special education.
Teachers in New Jersey can apply through the New Jersey Teacher Outreach Program (NJTOP®), which offers discounted tuition and greater access to Rowan’s graduate-level courses.
Who Should Apply:
- General education teachers working with students with disabilities
- Special education teachers looking to sharpen or expand their skills
- Educators seeking a next step in their career—but not a full degree or licensure
This certificate does not lead to a teaching endorsement or special education licensure, but it does provide graduate-level content that builds your expertise and prepares you to support all learners more effectively.
Benefits of Rowan’s Special Education Certification
- 100% online and asynchronous — complete coursework on your own schedule
- Just 15 credits — five graduate-level courses
- Finish in as little as 12 months
- Field-connected learning aligned with the Council for Exceptional Children and New Jersey Department of Education standards
- Option to apply credits toward Rowan’s M.Ed. in Teacher Leadership or use them to pursue the Teacher of Students with Disabilities Graduate Endorsement later on
This isn’t just about earning credits—it’s about becoming the kind of teacher who can meet every student where they are. Whether you’re working in an inclusive classroom or leading small-group instruction, the skills you build here will help you create more equitable, effective learning environments.
For the most up-to-date tuition information, please visit the program page.
Special Education Courses That Translate to the Classroom
You’ll explore practical, evidence-based strategies that can make an immediate impact, including:
- Teaching Reading to Students with Disabilities
- Implementing Positive Behavior Supports
- Educational Assessment in Special Education
- Education and Psychology of Students with Disabilities
For a complete list of courses and official program requirements, please visit the Rowan University Academic Catalog.
Pathways After Completion
Looking ahead, this online certificate can be more than a stand-alone credential. Graduates have the option to:
- Apply the credits toward Rowan’s Master of Education in Teacher Leadership, where this certificate fulfills the program’s Content COGS requirement
- Continue into the Teacher of Students with Disabilities Graduate Endorsement program to further expand their credentials and classroom impact
Where Can This Special Education Certificate Take You?
Graduates of this program are equipped to take on more specialized roles in their schools, strengthen co-teaching partnerships, and serve as advocates for inclusive practices. Many use the certificate as a step toward roles such as:
- Instructional support or intervention specialists
- Lead special education teachers
- Department chairs or team leaders
- Candidates for further endorsements or graduate degrees
Why Choose Rowan University for Your Special Education Certification?
As one of the fastest-growing public research universities in the nation, Rowan University is committed to access, affordability, and impact. Here’s what makes Rowan a smart choice for educators:
- A top 100 public research university with a focus on practical, career-driven programs
- Over 23,000 students and a growing alumni network—80% of whom stay and work in New Jersey
- Dedicated to flexible, online learning that fits your life
- Strong industry and school district partnerships across New Jersey
- Robust online student support including virtual workshops, tutoring, and academic coaching
- A reputation for developing highly skilled educators who make a difference in the classroom and beyond
Is Rowan’s Online Special Education Certificate Right for You?
If you’re a teacher who wants to grow your knowledge in special education—without pursuing another license—Rowan’s online Special Education Certificate of Graduate Study offers a focused, flexible path forward.
You’ll gain valuable graduate-level training, build confidence in your ability to serve diverse learners, and create new opportunities for your career—all without leaving your classroom behind.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is a special education certification?
A special education certification is a professional credential that helps teachers support students with disabilities more effectively. Rowan’s Special Education Certificate of Graduate Study is a non-licensure, graduate-level certificate designed to deepen your expertise—not to replace or extend your current teaching license.
How do I get a special education certification online?
To earn a special education certification online, you’ll need to complete a graduate-level certificate program like Rowan University’s. The program is fully online, designed for teachers, and can be completed in about 12 months with five targeted courses.
Do I need a teaching license to apply?
This program is designed for teachers—both general and special educators—who want to expand their special education knowledge. While the certificate does not lead to licensure, it builds on your existing teaching experience to help you better support diverse learners.
Does this certificate lead to licensure?
No, the certificate itself does not lead to licensure or endorsement. However, credits can be applied toward Rowan’s M.Ed. in Teacher Leadership or used to pursue the Teacher of Students with Disabilities Graduate Endorsement later on.
Can I complete the special education certificate while working full-time?
Absolutely. The program is 100% online and asynchronous, so you can complete coursework when it fits your schedule. It’s specifically designed for working educators who want to grow without stepping out of the classroom.
Can I still earn my special education certificate if I’m not currently teaching?
Yes, you can! Rowan University’s online Special Education Certificate of Graduate Study is flexible and open to individuals who are not currently teaching—whether due to maternity leave, personal reasons, or other factors. The program is 100% online and asynchronous, meaning you can complete coursework at your own pace and on your schedule. When you’re ready to return to the classroom, you’ll be equipped with advanced skills and knowledge to support students with disabilities and enhance your teaching practice.
Take the Next Step in Special Education
Ready to grow your impact in the classroom?
Explore full program details, course descriptions, and admission requirements on the program page. Or request more information or apply now and take the next step in your teaching career.
