Top 11 Education Specialist Certifications

Certifications are important for an education specialist in the job market because they provide evidence of their competency and qualifications for a specific position. Certifications show potential employers that the education specialist has completed rigorous training, has specialized knowledge and skills, is up-to-date on best practices in the field, and is capable of providing high quality services. Certifications also give employers assurance that the specialist is knowledgeable in the latest technology and research related to their field. Having a certification can help an education specialist stand out from other applicants and increase their chances of getting hired.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Education Specialists, providing an overview of how they can contribute to an education specialist's career.

What are Education Specialist Certifications?

Education specialist certification is a type of credential that recognizes teachers who have received specialized training in teaching students with special needs. It is offered at the elementary, middle, and high school levels, and can be obtained by completing additional coursework and passing an exam. With this certification, teachers are able to demonstrate their expertise in working with students with learning disabilities or other special educational needs.

Having an education specialist certification can help teachers gain access to more job opportunities and higher salaries. It also allows them to better understand the unique needs of their students and develop strategies for helping them learn effectively. An education specialist certification can also help teachers become more qualified for positions in administration or leadership roles within a school district. Finally, having this type of credential can provide credibility when applying for grants or other funding sources that may be available to support programs that meet the needs of special learners.

Pro Tip: Before pursuing education specialist certification, take the time to research your state's requirements and any potential financial aid that may be available. Additionally, many states offer online courses or workshops to help you prepare for the certification exam.

Related: What does an Education Specialist do?

Top 11 Education Specialist Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Education Specialists today.

1. National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS) Certification

The National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS) Certification is a voluntary certification program that recognizes and honors teachers who have demonstrated advanced teaching knowledge, skills, and practices. This certification is considered the gold standard in teacher certification and can be used to demonstrate a commitment to professional excellence.

The NBPTS Certification process requires teachers to demonstrate their knowledge of the subject matter they teach, as well as their ability to effectively instruct students. The process involves completing an online portfolio, taking an assessment, and submitting evidence of teaching practice. It typically takes two years to complete the entire process from start to finish.

To get started on the NBPTS Certification process, applicants must first create an account with NBPTS and fill out the application form. Once accepted into the program, applicants will need to complete a series of tasks such as creating an online portfolio, taking an assessment exam, and submitting evidence of teaching practice.

The cost of obtaining NBPTS Certification varies depending on the state in which you live. Generally speaking, it can range from $2,000-$4,000 for all fees associated with completing the program including application fees, assessment fees, and other related costs.

2. International Baccalaureate (IB) Educator Certificates

International Baccalaureate (IB) Educator Certificates are an internationally recognized qualification for educators who wish to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of the IB curriculum. The certificates are awarded by the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO), and can be earned in either a Primary Years Programme (PYP) or Middle Years Programme (MYP).

It typically takes around 18 months to complete the certificate, depending on the qualifications and experience of the applicant. To get an IB Educator Certificate, applicants must first complete an application form, provide evidence of teaching experience, pass a written assessment, and attend an interview with IBO representatives.

The cost of obtaining an IB Educator Certificate varies depending on the country in which it is taken; however, it typically costs between $2,000 - $3,000 USD. This fee covers all aspects of the certification process including assessments, interviews and administrative fees.

3. Microsoft Certified Educator (MCE)

Microsoft Certified Educator (MCE) is a certification program designed to recognize educators who have demonstrated their knowledge and skills in using Microsoft technologies in the classroom. The MCE certification is offered by Microsoft Education, which is part of the Microsoft Partner Network.

The MCE certification requires passing two exams: Exam 98-381: Introduction to Programming Using HTML and CSS, and Exam 98-382: Introduction to Programming Using JavaScript. Both exams are available through Pearson VUE testing centers. The cost of each exam is $127 USD.

In order to become certified, you must pass both exams within 12 months of starting the program. Once you have passed both exams, you will receive your MCE certificate from Microsoft Education.

The cost of the MCE certification program varies depending on your country or region. In the United States, it costs $99 USD for one year of access to study materials and practice tests, plus the cost of taking both exams ($254 USD).

4. Apple Teacher Certification

Apple Teacher Certification is an online professional learning program designed to help educators learn how to use Apple products in the classroom. It is a free certification program that takes approximately 8-10 hours to complete, depending on the level of knowledge and experience you have with Apple products. To get certified, educators must complete a series of courses and activities that demonstrate their mastery of using Apple products in the classroom.

The certification process consists of three parts: completing the free courses offered by Apple, passing a practice quiz, and taking a final assessment. The courses cover topics such as creating engaging lessons with iPad, exploring creative tools for teaching with Mac, and integrating technology into instruction. After completing all three parts of the certification process, educators will receive an official Apple Teacher badge that can be shared on social media or used as proof of their expertise.

The cost for the Apple Teacher Certification program is free. However, teachers may need to purchase some additional materials or software if they do not already own them in order to complete all of the course requirements.

5. Google Certified Educator Level 1 & 2

Google Certified Educator Level 1 & 2 is a certification program offered by Google for educators who wish to demonstrate their skills in using Google tools in the classroom.

Level 1 of the program focuses on basic Google tools such as Gmail, Calendar, Drive, Docs, Sheets and Slides. It also covers topics such as digital citizenship and online safety. To become certified at this level, you must pass an exam that consists of multiple-choice questions and takes about an hour to complete. The cost for this certification is $10 USD.

Level 2 of the program focuses on advanced Google tools such as Classroom, Sites and Forms. It also covers topics such as collaboration and communication. To become certified at this level, you must pass an exam that consists of multiple-choice questions and takes about two hours to complete. The cost for this certification is $25 USD.

In order to get either certification, you must register with Google for Education and then take the appropriate exam. After passing the exam, you will receive your certificate via email within 7-10 business days.

6. BrainPOP Certified Educator

BrainPOP Certified Educator is a professional development program that provides educators with the tools and resources they need to effectively use BrainPOP in their classrooms. The program consists of an online course, which takes approximately 6-8 hours to complete, and a certification exam. The course covers topics such as: BrainPOP's content and features; how to create effective lessons; strategies for using BrainPOP in the classroom; and tips for getting the most out of BrainPOP. Upon successful completion of the course and exam, participants receive a certificate that recognizes them as a BrainPOP Certified Educator.

The cost of the program is $99 USD per person. To get started, educators can visit brainpopcertifiededucator.com to register for the program.

7. National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) Certification

The National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) is a professional accrediting body that works to ensure the quality of teacher education programs in the United States. NCATE accreditation is voluntary and provides assurance that an institution meets national standards for preparing teachers and other school professionals.

It typically takes two years to complete the NCATE accreditation process. During this time, an institution must demonstrate compliance with NCATE standards by submitting evidence of its program's effectiveness, including student achievement data, faculty qualifications, and curriculum design. The cost of the accreditation process varies depending on the size and scope of the program being evaluated.

To get NCATE certification, an institution must submit a self-study report that outlines how it meets each of the standards set forth by NCATE. After submitting this report, a team of external evaluators will visit the institution to verify that it meets all requirements. Once approved, institutions receive NCATE certification for five years before needing to reapply for reaccreditation.

8. National Association of State Directors of Teacher Education and Certification (NASDTEC) Certification

The National Association of State Directors of Teacher Education and Certification (NASDTEC) is an organization that works to ensure quality standards in the preparation, certification, and professional development of educators. The NASDTEC Interstate Agreement is a voluntary agreement among states that allows for the exchange of educator information. It facilitates the transfer of valid certificates and licenses from one state to another.

Getting certified through NASDTEC requires meeting certain criteria established by each state, including passing tests, completing a certain number of college credits or hours in education-related courses, completing a student teaching program, and/or obtaining a degree in education. Depending on the state, it may also require additional requirements such as background checks or fingerprinting. The amount of time it takes to get certified through NASDTEC varies depending on the individual's qualifications and requirements set forth by each state.

In order to obtain NASDTEC certification, individuals must contact their respective state department of education to inquire about specific requirements for certification. Each state has its own set of rules and regulations regarding teacher certification so it is important to check with your local department for more detailed information. Additionally, some states may require applicants to pay a fee in order to apply for certification. Fees vary from state to state but generally range from $50-$100 USD.

9. Reading Specialist Certification

Reading Specialist Certification is a professional credential that provides educators with the knowledge and skills necessary to become an effective reading specialist. This certification typically requires a master’s degree in literacy or education, as well as specialized training in reading instruction. It usually takes two years to complete the program and obtain the certification.

The first step to becoming a certified reading specialist is to complete an approved graduate program in literacy or education. These programs usually include courses such as language development, assessment of literacy, instructional strategies for teaching reading, and research methods related to reading instruction. Depending on the program, students may also be required to complete field experience hours working with students in a classroom setting. After completing the coursework, students must then pass a comprehensive exam administered by their state board of education or other certifying body.

The cost of obtaining Reading Specialist Certification varies depending on the institution offering the program and any additional fees associated with taking the certification exam. Generally speaking, most programs cost between $5,000-$10,000 for tuition and fees. In addition to tuition costs, there may also be additional fees for taking the certification exam and any other materials needed for completion of the program.

Overall, Reading Specialist Certification is an important credential for educators who want to specialize in teaching literacy skills to students at all levels of learning. The process can take up to two years depending on individual circumstances but is worth it for those looking to make a difference in student learning outcomes through improved literacy instruction.

10. Special Education Credential/Certification

Special Education Credential/Certification is a certification that allows educators to teach students with disabilities in K-12 schools. It is typically required by most states in order to become a special education teacher. The credential typically takes two years of coursework and experience to obtain, although some states may require additional courses or hours of fieldwork.

In order to get the credential, you must first complete an accredited teacher preparation program and pass the appropriate state exams. After completing the program, you must also complete a supervised teaching experience in a special education classroom. Once all of these requirements have been met, you can apply for your credential from your state's department of education.

The cost of obtaining the credential varies depending on where you live and which school district you are applying through. Generally speaking, it will cost around $2,000-$4,000 for tuition and fees associated with the program and any necessary exams or tests.

11. Educational Technology Specialist Certification

Educational Technology Specialist Certification is a professional certification program designed to provide educators with the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively use technology in their classrooms. It is a comprehensive program that covers topics such as instructional design, digital learning, multimedia development, and more. The certification is offered by organizations such as ISTE (International Society for Technology in Education) and is recognized by many educational institutions across the United States.

The certification process typically takes about six months to complete. During this time, candidates will need to complete an online application form, attend an orientation session, and pass an exam. After passing the exam, candidates will receive their Educational Technology Specialist Certification.

In order to become certified as an Educational Technology Specialist, you must possess a bachelor’s degree or higher in education or a related field. You must also have at least two years of teaching experience or three years of experience working with technology in education settings. Additionally, you must have taken at least two courses related to educational technology within the last five years.

The cost of obtaining your Educational Technology Specialist Certification varies depending on the organization offering it and what additional materials are required for completion of the program. Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from $500-$1000 USD.

Do You Really Need a Education Specialist Certificate?

The answer to this question really depends on the individual’s goals and ambitions. An Education Specialist Certificate is a great way to demonstrate advanced knowledge and skills in a particular area of education or learning. It can provide an edge in the job market when it comes to competing for positions in the educational field, or for promotions within an organization.

For those already working in the educational field, an Education Specialist Certificate can give them the credentials they need to move up into higher level positions or roles. It also demonstrates that they have taken their professional development seriously, and are committed to improving their knowledge and skills. Additionally, many employers may prefer candidates who have obtained such certification because it signals that they are prepared to take on greater responsibility.

For those just entering the field of education, having a certificate can help set them apart from other applicants and make them more attractive candidates for potential employers. Also, obtaining a certificate can provide individuals with an opportunity to gain insights into specific areas of teaching that they may not have had access to before. This can be particularly beneficial if one wishes to pursue a particular specialty within education or teaching as it provides additional resources and information about that subject area.

In short, whether or not someone needs an Education Specialist Certificate will depend on their individual career goals and ambitions. For those looking for a competitive edge when applying for jobs or promotions, obtaining certification could be advantageous; however, for individuals just starting out in their careers, it may not be necessary at this stage. Ultimately, it is up to each individual to decide if having such certification would benefit them in achieving their own professional objectives.

Related: Education Specialist Resume Examples

FAQs About Education Specialist Certifications

1. What is an Education Specialist Certification?

Answer: An Education Specialist Certification is a credential awarded to individuals who have completed advanced coursework and fieldwork in the field of education. It is designed to equip educators with the knowledge and skills needed to work with students who have special needs, such as those with learning disabilities, physical disabilities, mental health issues, emotional disturbances, or autism spectrum disorders.

2. Who is eligible for an Education Specialist Certification?

Answer: To be eligible for an Education Specialist Certification, applicants must hold a master's degree in their chosen field of education, have a valid teaching license or certificate from their state department of education, and demonstrate successful completion of a state-approved program in special education.

3. How long does it take to obtain an Education Specialist Certification?

Answer: The length of time required to obtain an Education Specialist Certification varies depending on the specific program and requirements in your state. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere between one and two years to complete all of the necessary coursework and fieldwork required for certification.

4. How much does it cost to obtain an Education Specialist Certification?

Answer: The cost of obtaining an Education Specialist Certification will vary depending on the specific program you choose and other factors such as tuition costs and fees associated with taking courses or completing fieldwork requirements. Generally speaking, costs can range from several hundred dollars up to several thousand dollars depending on the program you select.

5. What are some career opportunities for individuals with an Education Specialist Certification?

Answer: Individuals who possess an Education Specialists Certification may find employment opportunities in many different educational settings including public schools, private schools, early childhood programs, residential treatment centers, hospitals, universities/colleges, vocational rehabilitation agencies and more. These professionals may work as teachers or counselors specializing in special education or related fields such as behavior analysis or speech therapy.