Special and inclusive education diploma courses

The Diploma in Special and Inclusive Education program has been designed in response to Ministry of Education changes that will require teachers who teach children formally designated as special needs to possess a minimum 15-unit diploma. The Diploma is a 15-unit program designed for teachers who have an undergraduate degree and teacher certification.

Students may enter the Diploma program only after the successful completion of the Professional Specialization Certificate in Special and Inclusive Education. The 7.5 units that comprise the Certificate program are combined with the following 7.5 units (5 courses) to make the Diploma program:

ED-D 428: Teaching Students with Specific Learning Disorders (1.5)

An introduction to the nature, scope and recognition of specific learning disorders in the inclusive classroom.  Research-informed methods for skills-based assessment and instructional programming targeting reading, mathematics and written language are emphasized.

ED-D 424: Teaching Students with Developmental Difficulties (1.5)

An introduction to designing, implementing, and monitoring programs within inclusive settings for children and adolescents with developmental disabilities such as intellectual disabilities, autism, cerebral palsy, and fetal alcohol spectrum disorder.

ED-D 411: Teaching Students with Behavioural and Emotional Difficulties (1.5)

This is an introduction course in behavior, social, emotional, and related mental-health issues in childhood and adolescence. Causes, diagnosis, and identification will be examined along with contemporary approaches to program planning and intervention within inclusive schools and classrooms.

ED-D 426: Differentiating Instruction in the Inclusive Classroom (1.5)

The theoretical foundations and practical applications of Differentiated Instruction (DI), an approach to meet the needs of all students in today;s diverse classrooms. Students will learn strategies for determining what to teach (content), how to teach (process), and the evaluation of student learning (product).

ED-D 425: Assistive Technology in the Inclusive Classroom (1.5)

The application of a range of assistive technologies and instructional strategies to support active student participation in inclusive classrooms. Study and application of functional assessment processes, team principles, and a range of technologies and resources.

Courses subject to change. Visit the Academic Calendar for up-to-date information and course descriptions.

Designed for working professionals, all Diploma courses are offered online. Students may enter the Diploma program upon successful completion of the Professional Specialization Certification in Special and Inclusive Education.

The Professional Specialization Certificate (PSC) in Special and Inclusive Education is designed for teachers who have an undergraduate degree and teacher certification and are looking to gain the skills they need to teach with confidence to the broad range of learning needs in their classrooms, as well as the knowledge and competencies to assume roles as special educators within schools. Students must first complete the Certificate program before enrolling in the Diploma program.

Looking for a more intensive program focused on research and empirically examining important issues in special education and related health fields? Consider enrolling in our graduate program in Educational Psychology with a focus on Special Education. Students wishing to pursue an MA or MEd following the completion of the Certificate may, subject to approval, apply 1.5 units of their coursework toward their graduate degree in Special Education.