Special Education for Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS)

The Graduate Certificate in Special Education: Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (GCSE:MTSS) is a 12-credit-hour, fully online graduate certificate program in special education. School districts across North Carolina and the country are implementing MTSS to include School-Wide Positive Behavior Intervention and Supports (SWPBIS) and Response to Intervention (RtI). These districts need personnel to support implementation of the MTSS approach within their schools.  The program focuses on the newest, evidence-based intervention concepts of SWPBIS and RtI, giving post-baccalaureate students the knowledge of contemporary special education service delivery in schools.

Students are formally admitted for Summer or Fall academic terms. Admissions are not made for Spring semesters.

Eligibility

Program applicants must submit:

1. a resume that identifies educational preparation and professional employment and experiences;
2. a statement of professional goals indicating how this program will enhance job performance or career development;
3. a projected semester timeline for completing program requirements;
4. an official academic transcript from each undergraduate institution that is listed on the application. The official transcript from an institution where an undergraduate degree was earned must include the name of the degree, the area of study, and the year of award. International transcripts must meet the requirements of the Graduate School for translation equivalency.

Interviews of applicants may be required prior to an admission decision. These interviews may be conducted in person, via telephone, via online teleconferencing, etc., as appropriate.

Plan of Study

The four required courses total 12 credit hours of graduate-level coursework. All courses are offered online. No transfer credits from other institutions are allowed to substitute for any of the four courses in this program. All courses must be completed at NC State. Students enrolling in two courses per semester can complete the program within two semesters.

Career Prospects

This certificate is designed to prepare individuals—including teachers, administrators,  academic coaches, consultants and other allied professionals who work with K-12 schools—with necessary knowledge and skills related to policies and practices to support the implementation of MTSS. Graduates will be able to implement MTSS to facilitate evidence-based behavior and academic learning in the classroom setting or to prepare effective teachers, administrators, and allied professionals who work at local or state education agencies. Interested persons from private education settings are also invited to enroll in the program. In addition, the program serves as a portal for graduates to go on to a Master of Education (M.Ed.) or Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) and/or to state licensure in Special Education.