UMaine Online

Online Graduate Certificate in Multilingual Special Education

The online Graduate Certificate in Multilingual Special Education equips school professionals to understand and apply evidence-based practices and educational policies to support multilingual learners with disabilities and other culturally and linguistically diverse students with disabilities.

Students in this program will learn how to:

• Understand and address the individual and developmental needs of each student
• Use assessment to understand the learner and the learning environment
• Understand current issues and challenges related to implementing effective practices and policies for multilingual learners with disabilities
• Apply the latest research in effective instructional practices and interventions
• Promote inclusive education and stakeholder collaboration
• Develop knowledge and skills to better meet the cultural and linguistic needs of students and their families

This certificate can also serve as a stepping stone into the M.Ed. in Special Education program.

Curriculum

Students will learn how to implement sound assessment procedures and pedagogical practices that enhance the school climate, social-emotional growth, and academic achievement for multilingual learners with disabilities.

Core Courses

The following courses are required:

• ELL 572: Second Language Acquisition (3 credits) (Spring)
• ERL 472: Language and Linguistics (3 credits) (Fall and Spring)
• ERL 531: Linguistic Diversity, Multiculturalism, and the Classroom (3 credits) (Summer)
• SED 502: Strategies for Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Students with Disabilities (3 credits) (Spring)
• SED 545: Intervention for Reading Difficulties (3 credits) (Fall and Spring)

Course Descriptions

Admissions

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university
• Must be currently working in an educational setting (K-12)

Application Materials

The admission evaluation process begins once we’ve received all your application materials. When you are ready to apply, please first review the application instructions. Then submit the following:

• An online application
• Official academic transcripts from all institutions attended
• 300-500 word essay based on the following prompt
• Evidence of fingerprinting 
• Proof of teaching certification if you currently hold a teaching license
• CV or résumé

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Careers

According to the Office of Special Education Programs, nearly 12% of school-aged multilingual learners have a disability. National data trends show this student population has grown close to 30% between 2012 and 2020.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of special education teachers is projected to grow 8% from 2020 to 2030 with about 38,600 openings per year. The median annual wage for special education teachers was $62,950 in May 2022.

Faculty

Our faculty actively conduct research in effective special education practices giving them a depth of knowledge about the unique challenges experienced by those who work with students with disabilities. They are also leaders in institutions, such as the Maine Autism Institute for Education and Research, dedicated to improving the lives of those with special needs. Their passion and expertise will help you develop practical skills and grow as a professional educator.

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