In their February 9, 2023 regular session, the University of Colorado Board of Regents approved three new certificates for UCCS’ School of Education.
“The Alternative Licensure and Special Education licensure and endorsement programs have existed for some time at UCCS,” said Katie Anderson-Pence, Associate Dean for the College of Education. “These new graduate certificates will assist students in tailoring their academic program to their career goals. Students can choose to complete just the licensure or endorsement requirements with the certificate, or they can take two additional courses to earn a master’s degree in either Special Education or Curriculum and Instruction.”
The Special Education Added Endorsement certificate is designed for current classroom teachers who want to add the special education credential to their existing teaching license. The Special Education Initial License certificate and the Alternative Licensure Program certificates are designed for those who do not yet have a teaching certificate. The alternative licensure program enables teacher candidates to work as a teacher while they complete the coursework required for licensure.
“There is a critical need for special education teachers and secondary teachers, especially in mathematics and science,” Anderson-Pence said. “These programs open up pathways for people to develop the skills needed to work with these populations of students and to obtain the teaching license to gain employment in these areas.”
About the UCCS College of Education
The College of Education offers undergraduate and advanced degrees, initial and advanced licenses and additional endorsements across three departments: Teaching and Learning, Counseling and Human Services and Leadership, Research, and Foundations. The college is home to more than 1,000 students and offers 12 bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees and doctoral degrees. It is accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Programs (CACREP). Learn more about the College of Education at UCCS.