Have you ever thought about making a real difference in the lives of children? Working with students with special needs can be an incredibly rewarding career path. But maybe you already have a bachelor's degree in another field, and the traditional route to becoming a teacher seems daunting.
Well, in Oklahoma, there's a special program that can fast-track you into a special education classroom: The Non-Traditional Route to Special Education Teacher Certification, also known as Bootcamp.
The state's nontraditional path allows you to enroll in and complete an intensive Boot Camp. Here, you will receive the essential skills to excel in special ed classrooms. After finishing the Boot Camp, we will provide a recommendation to the State of Oklahoma for your Provisional Teaching Certificate. This certificate allows you to start teaching immediately, create individualized education plans (IEPs) for students, and meet their special needs.
Bootcamp: Geared Up for Success
This innovative program is designed for folks with any bachelor's degree who want to launch a career in special education. Over 8 weeks, you'll gain the essential skills and knowledge to excel in this unique and important field. Here's what makes Bootcamp so appealing:
- Fast Track to Teaching: Get your provisional certificate after completing the program. This allows you to start teaching special needs children right away and begin creating Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) for your students.
- Flexible Options: Balance your busy life with evening sessions or a condensed summer program (three weeks, two days per week).
- Supportive Learning: Connect with other aspiring teachers and learn from experienced instructors who will guide you through the program and certification process.
- Cost-Effective: The program is a steal at $600, with flexible payment options available.
This summer, SNU is offering a three-week format (two days per week) for students who can attend courses during the day. This will allow participants to complete their boot camp in time for certification by the start of the 2024-2025 school year.
One three-week (3 credit-hour) course will be offered in June during the day on the Bethany Campus or on Zoom and in July via Zoom only. SNU will still offer its traditional evening Bootcamp option during August and September on the Bethany campus or over Zoom. This is exclusively for Oklahoma residents.
Bootcamp is designed to provide a solid foundation for your journey as a special education teacher. Best of all, we've lowered the cost, so this amazing opportunity is available for only $600.
During Boot Camp, we'll discuss different paths, including possibly getting a Master's in Special Education Administration and Principal Certification, using these existing credits, and helping you complete your degree faster.
Beyond Bootcamp: Investing in Your Future
Bootcamp is just the first step on your journey. To earn a standard teaching certificate, you'll need to complete some additional requirements, including 18 hours of master's-level coursework. The good news? SNU offers a Master of Arts in Administration of Special Education that integrates seamlessly with your Bootcamp credits. Completing this program within 22 months can open doors to:
- Master's Degree: Earn your Master's in Special Education Administration and Principal Certification.
- Exemption from Exams: Qualify for an exemption from the OSAT in Mild/Moderate Certification.
- Financial Aid: Many students qualify for programs like the Teach Grant and Teacher Loan Forgiveness, which can cover the entire cost!
Yes, in 22 months, you could complete your Master's degree, be exempt from your OSAT, pass your PPAT, and receive a standard Special Education Teaching certificate. You would graduate with a Master of Arts in Special Education Administration and Principal Certification. And it could be FREE!
You may qualify for loan forgiveness and a teaching grant that could cover the entire cost of your continued education. Imagine starting an awesome new adventure without taking on more student debt!
More Than a Job, It's a Calling
Teaching special education is about so much more than just a paycheck. It's about helping students with unique needs reach their full potential. This program is designed to equip you with the tools and knowledge to thrive in this important role.
Ready to take the first step?
Take that first step to changing lives, including your own. Enroll in our Special Education Bootcamp today and open up a world of possibilities!
Check out SNU's website or contact Program Director Dr. Lynette Thompson to learn more about special education certification, upcoming start dates, and to explore program details.
