Paraprofessional Certificate

This certificate provides a practical introduction to the education field grounded in how children and youth learn, how to design engaging lessons, and how to build inclusive, supportive classrooms. Through coursework in teaching/learning, human behavior, special education, behavior analysis, early literacy, and math for educators, students develop the skills to assist teachers, reinforce instruction, and support diverse learners. Graduates are prepared for entry-level roles such as Paraprofessional/Teacher’s Aide, Classroom Assistant, ABA/Behavior Technician (entry), or After-School Program Assistant, and may continue into associate or bachelor’s degrees in Early Childhood or Elementary Education, Human Services, or related fields. Flexible, learner-centered delivery and multilingual support help working adult students succeed and advance.

Now enrolling for Spring 2026

Requirements

Core Requirements:

TOTAL CREDITS: 21

Program Learning Outcomes

Students who complete this certificate will be able to:

Apply core learning and development theories to plan developmentally appropriate, engaging learning experiences.
Support inclusive practices for students with disabilities and diverse learning profiles, including accommodations and UDL-aligned strategies.
Reinforce foundational literacy and numeracy using evidence-based instructional routines and progress-monitoring techniques.
Use behavior analysis principles (e.g., ABCs, reinforcement, data collection) to promote positive behavior and effective classroom management.
Collaborate professionally with teachers, specialists, and families using clear, culturally responsive communication.
Utilize AI-enabled and digital tools responsibly for lesson ideas, differentiation, data tracking, and documentation maintaining student privacy, accuracy checks, and ethical safeguards.
Reflect on professional growth, ethics, and the paraprofessional role to support safe, respectful, and equitable learning environments.