Early Childhood Special Education (Licensure) Graduate Certificate

Early childhood special education teachers have the opportunity to influence the academic future of children. Intervening at this early age increases the chance for children to improve in areas such as social skills, motor skills, language, and speech.

In addition to the ECED concentration coursework, students must complete specific content area coursework in English, mathematics, science, and the social sciences as well as mandated state/accreditation assessments.

Admission Requirements

In addition to the ECED concentration coursework, students must complete mandated state/accreditation assessments. The following courses are prerequisites to admission:

ECED 401: Developmental Pathways of Diverse Learners, Birth-Adolescence (3 credits) OR ECED 501: Developmental Pathways of Diverse Learners, Birth-Adolescence (3 credits)

ECED 402: Foundations of Language and Literacy for Diverse Prekindergarten and Kindergarten Learners (3 credits) OR ECED 502: Foundations of Language and Literacy for Diverse Prekindergarten and Kindergarten Learners (3 credits)

ECED 403: Inclusive Curriculum for Young Learners: Planning Instruction and Guidance (3 credits) OR ECED 503: Inclusive Curriculum for Young Learners: Planning Instruction and Guidance (3 credits)

ECED 404: Engaging Families of Diverse Learners, Birth – Grade 6 (3 credits) OR ECED 504: Engaging Families of Diverse Young Learners (3 credits)

Certificate Requirements

ECED 505: Introduction to Early Childhood Special Education (3 credits)

ECED 506: Medical and Developmental Aspects of Disabilities of Diverse Young Learners (3 credits)

ECED 511: Assessment of Diverse Young Learners (3 credits)

ECED 522: Developing Language, Literacy, and Communication of Diverse Infants and Toddlers (3 credits)

ECED 523: Early Intervention for Infants & Toddlers with Disabilities: Collaborative & Consultative Approaches (3 credits)

ECED 781: Seminar in Early Childhood Education (3 credits)

Select one from the following:

ECED 791: Internship with Diverse Infants and Toddlers (3 credits) AND ECED 793: Internship in Preschool Early Childhood Special Education (3 credits)

ECED 789: Internship in Early Childhood Special Education Birth - Five (6 credits)

Total Credits: 24

This program has been identified by George Mason University as one that may lead to a career requiring professional licensure/certification. Federal regulations require Mason to disclose information as to whether this program meets/does not meet the educational requirements for licensure/certification in your state, or whether such a determination has not been made. Please consult our Licensure Disclosure Tool for the disclosure statement specific to your desired state/program combination.

George Mason University will verify completion of the requirements of a Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) state-approved preparation program at the graduate or undergraduate level. Such verification does not guarantee the issuance of a Virginia Collegiate Professional, Postgraduate Professional, or Pupil Personnel license from the Commonwealth of Virginia. It is solely the student's responsibility to comply with all requirements for licensure by the Commonwealth. Under Virginia law, a social security number is required for licensure.