- Leadership-Focused Curriculum: Gain the administrative and supervisory skills needed to lead special education programs
effectively.
- Compliance and Policy Training: Understand federal and state regulations, including IDEA, and how to implement them
in school systems.
- Real-World Application: Learn through coursework and experiences that align with current challenges in special
education leadership.
- Two Levels of Certification: Complete Level I to begin your leadership role, and Level II for continued professional
growth and certification renewal.
- Values-Driven Leadership: Build your leadership practice on a foundation of integrity, service, and student-centered
decision-making.
Campbellsville University offers a comprehensive and practical Director of Special
Education Certificate program (Levels I and II), delivered both online through CU Online and on our Campbellsville campus. Designed to provide a solid academic foundation
and real-world leadership skills, the program prepares you to oversee special education
services, ensure legal compliance, and drive program improvement. Our flexible online
format supports collaboration and practical application in a values-driven learning
environment. See full course requirements for Level I and Level II certification tracks
below.
To apply to Campbellsville University’s accredited director of special education online
certificate, prospective students must submit or complete the following*:
- The online application
- All official college transcripts confirming a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75 or a
3.0 on the last 30 hours
- Master’s degree or planned fifth-year program
- Copy of teaching certificate
- Three years of experience as a special education teacher, or one year as a special
education teacher and two years as a school psychologist
- The name and email address of a colleague and of a building or district administrator
to your enrollment counselor for School of Education requirements.
- A complete statement of purpose regarding enrollment in the certificate program
*Some additional requirements will be requested upon acceptance into the program.
Graduates of the Director of Special Education certification programs are prepared
to step into administrative roles that guide and shape services for students with
exceptional needs. These positions offer the opportunity to influence school-wide
and district-level special education policy and practice.
- Director of Special Education
- Exceptional Child Services Coordinator
- Special Education Program Administrator
- District Special Education Supervisor
- Compliance Officer
- Student Services Director
- Special Education Department Chair
These roles require not only expertise but a deep commitment to serving students,
families, and educators with professionalism and care.
Ready to take the next step toward a leadership role in special education? Campbellsville
University is here to help you move forward. To learn more about the Director of Special
Education Level I and II Certificates or to start your application, fill out our Request Information form or contact our admissions team at admissions@campbellsville.eduor (270) 789-5220.