The Class AA Certificate is valid for five years and is renewable. Students who have earned only three semester hours of EDL 595 credit in a Class A Certification Program must take an additional three semester hours. Students who have not completed a survey course in exceptionalities as part of an undergraduate or graduate program must take SPE 500, Nature and Needs of Exceptional Children and Youth. This program is designed for students who want to become educational leaders in institutions other than elementary, middle, and secondary schools. Students who work in higher education or in industry, for instance, may tailor the program to suit their needs with the guidance and approval of their advisor.
Students apply for candidacy after completing a minimum of nine-eighteen semester hours.
In addition to meeting all College requirements for admission to candidacy, students must pass a written candidacy examination. One or two courses approved by the advisor. Six Educational Leadership courses or other courses approved by the advisor. The Department may adjust course requirements to fit student needs and interests. This program option is designed especially for educational administrators.