Top 11 Paraprofessional Certifications

Certifications for paraprofessionals are important for a few reasons. First, it demonstrates to employers that the paraprofessional has received specialized training and is knowledgeable about their particular field. This can make them more attractive candidates for positions over other applicants who lack certifications. Secondly, certifications provide paraprofessionals with a way to stay up-to-date on best practices and trends in the field, which can help them be better prepared to meet the needs of their clients. Lastly, having certifications may open up new opportunities and career paths within an organization or in another setting. For example, a paraprofessional with certain certifications may be able to move into more administrative roles or take on additional responsibilities in their current role.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for Paraprofessionals and explain how they can help paraprofessionals advance their careers.

What are Paraprofessional Certifications?

Paraprofessional certification is a form of recognition for individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge, skills and abilities necessary to provide support in an educational environment. It is most often awarded to those working with children or adults in special education programs, but it can also be used to recognize the professional accomplishments of paraprofessionals in other areas such as library science, instructional technology and school counseling.

The goals of paraprofessional certification are to recognize the unique qualifications and contributions of paraprofessionals, encourage career development and provide opportunities for advancement. Having a paraprofessional certification demonstrates both dedication to one’s field as well as a commitment to providing quality services.

In addition to being able to demonstrate your expertise in your field, having a paraprofessional certification can provide you with several benefits such as increased job security, higher wages and more job opportunities. With a valid certificate, you may be eligible for promotions or higher pay grades within your organization or even in other organizations that may require certified professionals. Certification also gives you an edge over other candidates when applying for jobs since employers are more likely to hire someone with verified credentials. Furthermore, employers will respect your commitment to excellence and may offer additional training or educational opportunities that could help advance your career further.

In short, obtaining paraprofessional certification is an important step towards advancing your career and demonstrating professionalism within your field. It is highly recommended for anyone already working as a paraprofessional or looking to enter this profession.

Pro tip: When considering a paraprofessional certification, make sure to research the requirements and any additional certifications or training that might be required. Also, check with your local school district and state education department to ensure that the certifications you are considering are recognized in your area.

Related: What does a Paraprofessional do?

Top 11 Paraprofessional Certifications

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

1. National Paraprofessional Certification (NPC)

National Paraprofessional Certification (NPC) is a credential that recognizes paraprofessionals who demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and abilities related to working with students in the K-12 educational setting. The certification is offered by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS).

In order to obtain the NPC certification, applicants must meet certain eligibility criteria, including having at least two years of full-time experience in a paraprofessional role in a K-12 school setting. Applicants must also have completed an approved training program or have earned an associate’s degree or higher from an accredited college or university.

The NPC certification process consists of three parts: an application form, a written exam, and a performance assessment. The application form requires information about the applicant’s education and work history as well as any relevant certifications or awards they may have received. The written exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as classroom management, instructional strategies, and student assessment. Finally, the performance assessment requires applicants to demonstrate their ability to effectively support instruction in a classroom setting.

The entire NPC certification process typically takes between four and six months to complete. Applicants should plan on spending around 20 hours studying for the written exam and another 10 hours preparing for the performance assessment.

The cost of obtaining NPC certification varies depending on where you live and which testing center you choose to take your exams at. Generally speaking, it will cost between $200-$400 for all three components of the certification process.

2. National Certified School Psychologist (NCSP)

National Certified School Psychologist (NCSP) is a credential that recognizes a school psychologist’s professional qualifications and expertise. It is awarded by the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP). The NCSP credential is designed to demonstrate that a school psychologist has achieved a high level of professional competence, has met rigorous standards for practice, and has demonstrated knowledge in the field of school psychology.

It typically takes two years to complete all requirements for the NCSP credential. Requirements include completing an accredited graduate program in school psychology, passing the Praxis II exam, and completing at least 1,200 hours of supervised experience in school psychology. The supervised experience must include 600 hours of direct service to children and youth.

To obtain the NCSP credential, applicants must submit an application packet with supporting documents such as transcripts from their graduate program, verification of supervised experience hours, and proof of passing the Praxis II exam. Applicants must also pay an application fee. The current fee for applying for the NCSP credential is $175 USD.

3. Certified Educational Paraprofessional (CEP)

A Certified Educational Paraprofessional (CEP) is an educational paraprofessional who has completed a certification program to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in the field of education. The CEP is designed to recognize those individuals who have achieved a level of competence in the areas of instructional support, classroom management, and student behavior management.

The CEP certification program typically takes between 6-12 months to complete, depending on the individual's availability and commitment to completing the course requirements. The certification program includes both online and in-person components, such as workshops and seminars.

To get certified as a CEP, individuals must first complete an approved paraprofessional training program. This can be done through a college or university that offers a paraprofessional certificate or degree program, or through an approved online training provider. Once this training is completed, individuals must then take and pass the CEP exam administered by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS).

The cost of becoming certified as a CEP varies depending on the individual's chosen training provider; however, it usually ranges from $200-$500 for all associated costs (including application fees and exam fees).

4. Certified Academic Language Therapist (CALT)

Certified Academic Language Therapist (CALT) is a professional credential that recognizes an individual’s expertise in providing language-based intervention services to individuals with language-related learning disabilities. The CALT credential is awarded by the Academic Language Therapy Association (ALTA).

To become certified, an individual must have a master’s degree in speech-language pathology or a related field, and have at least two years of supervised experience providing language-based intervention services. In addition, applicants must complete ALTA’s certification program, which includes coursework and practicum experiences. Once the certification program is completed, applicants must pass a written exam to receive their CALT credential.

The cost of the certification program depends on the number of courses taken and the location of the training. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $3,500 for the entire program. It typically takes 6 months to 1 year to complete all requirements for certification.

Once certified, CALTs are expected to adhere to ALTA’s Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct as well as maintain their credentials through continuing education activities every three years.

5. National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS)

The National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS) is an independent, non-profit organization that works to advance the quality of teaching and learning by setting high standards for teachers and providing a national voluntary system of certification. The NBPTS certification process is designed to recognize accomplished teachers who meet these standards through a performance-based assessment process.

The NBPTS certification process typically takes between two to three years to complete. To get certified, teachers must first apply online and then submit their portfolio, which includes evidence of their professional practice, student work samples, reflections on their teaching practices, and videotaped lessons. After submitting their portfolio, teachers must also complete an assessment center visit where they will demonstrate their teaching skills in front of a panel of assessors.

The cost for the NBPTS certification varies depending on the state in which you reside. Generally speaking, it costs between $2,000-$3,000 to become certified. This cost covers application fees as well as any associated travel expenses for the assessment center visit.

6. Autism Spectrum Disorder Certificate Program (ASDCP)

The Autism Spectrum Disorder Certificate Program (ASDCP) is an online program designed to provide professionals with an in-depth understanding of autism spectrum disorder. The program is offered through the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and provides a comprehensive overview of the diagnosis, assessment, treatment, and management of individuals with ASD.

The program consists of six courses that cover topics such as neurodevelopmental disorders, developmental disabilities, social skills development, communication strategies, behavior management techniques, and more. Each course takes approximately 8 weeks to complete and includes lectures, readings, assignments, and exams. Upon successful completion of all six courses, participants will receive a certificate from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

In order to participate in the ASDCP program, applicants must have a bachelor’s degree or higher in psychology or another related field. Applicants must also submit transcripts from their previous educational institutions as well as a resume detailing their work experience related to autism spectrum disorder.

The cost for the ASDCP program is $1,500 USD. This fee covers all course materials and access to online resources such as webinars and discussion boards. Additionally, participants may be eligible for financial assistance through grants or scholarships if they meet certain criteria.

7. Special Education Teacher Preparation Program (SETPP)

SETPP stands for Special Education Teacher Preparation Program. It is a program designed to provide special education teachers with the skills, knowledge, and support they need to effectively teach students with disabilities. The program typically takes two years to complete and includes coursework in special education theory and practice, as well as field-based experience in the classroom.

In order to be accepted into the SETPP program, applicants must have a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution, preferably in a related field such as psychology or education. Applicants must also pass a background check and have valid certification or licensure in their state of residence.

The cost of the program varies depending on the university or college offering it. Generally speaking, the cost of tuition and fees for the SETPP program range from $10,000-$20,000 per year. In addition to tuition costs, students may need to pay for textbooks and other materials needed for coursework.

The SETPP program is designed to provide special education teachers with the skills they need to work with students who have disabilities in an effective manner. Upon completion of the program, graduates will be prepared to work in public schools or private settings as special education teachers.

8. Assistive Technology Professional Certification (ATP-C)

Assistive Technology Professional Certification (ATP-C) is a credential that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and expertise in the field of assistive technology. The certification is offered by the Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America (RESNA).

The ATP-C credential requires applicants to pass an exam that tests their knowledge of assistive technology, including topics such as product evaluation, selection, implementation, and training. The exam consists of 150 multiple choice questions and must be completed within three hours.

In order to be eligible for the ATP-C certification, applicants must have at least two years of experience working with assistive technology or a related field, such as occupational therapy or special education. In addition, they must complete a minimum of 30 hours of approved continuing education credits in assistive technology within the past three years.

The cost to take the ATP-C exam is $450 USD. This fee includes access to study materials and practice exams. Once you pass the exam, you will receive your certificate in approximately four weeks. You will also receive a wallet card with your certification number that can be used to verify your credentials with employers or other organizations.

To maintain your certification status, you must complete 20 hours of continuing education credits every two years and pay an annual maintenance fee of $75 USD.

9. Certified Paraeducator Assessment of Competency and Skills (CPACS)

Certified Paraeducator Assessment of Competency and Skills (CPACS) is a comprehensive assessment program designed to evaluate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of individuals who are seeking certification as paraeducators. The CPACS assessment measures an individual’s competency in the areas of communication, instructional strategies, classroom management, and professional development. It also assesses the individual’s ability to work with diverse populations.

The CPACS assessment takes approximately four hours to complete. It consists of two parts: a written exam and a performance-based component. The written exam includes questions related to paraeducator roles and responsibilities, classroom management techniques, instructional strategies, communication skills, professional development topics, and diversity issues. The performance-based component requires the candidate to demonstrate their ability to perform tasks such as setting up a learning environment or providing instruction in a simulated classroom setting.

To get certified through CPACS, individuals must first obtain an application packet from their local educational agency (LEA). Once they have completed the required paperwork and submitted it to their LEA for review, they will be given instructions on how to register for the CPACS assessment online. The cost for taking the CPACS assessment varies by state but typically ranges from $100-$200 USD.

10. Paraeducator Professional Development Program (PDP)

The Paraeducator Professional Development Program (PDP) is a program designed to provide professional development opportunities for paraeducators. It is designed to help them develop the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to perform their job duties effectively and support student learning.

The PDP consists of two components: a core component and an elective component. The core component includes an orientation module, four modules on the roles and responsibilities of paraeducators, and one module on working with diverse learners. The elective component allows participants to select from a variety of topics such as classroom management, instructional strategies, behavior management, special education law, and technology integration.

The PDP takes approximately 12-15 hours to complete depending on the number of electives chosen by the participant. Participants can complete the program at their own pace within a six-month period.

To get started in the PDP, participants must first register online through their local school district or educational agency website. Once registered, they will receive access to the online training modules and materials needed to complete the program.

The cost of the PDP varies depending on location but typically ranges between $50-$100 per person.

11. National Association of Special Education Teachers’ Paraprofessional Credentialing Program (NASET-PCP).

The National Association of Special Education Teachers’ Paraprofessional Credentialing Program (NASET-PCP) is an online credentialing program designed to provide paraprofessionals working with students with disabilities the opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in the field of special education. The program is designed to help paraprofessionals develop the necessary skills and competencies needed to effectively support students with disabilities.

The NASET-PCP requires a minimum of 30 hours of training, which can be completed online or through a combination of online and in-person instruction. Once all requirements are met, participants must pass a comprehensive exam in order to receive their credential. The exam covers topics such as classroom management, instructional strategies, assessment and evaluation, collaboration, and professional ethics.

The cost for the NASET-PCP is $195 for members of NASET and $245 for non-members. It typically takes about one year to complete the program from start to finish. To get started, applicants must register on the NASET website and then create an account. Once registered, applicants will have access to all materials needed for the program including study guides, practice exams, and more. Applicants will also need to submit proof of completion of all required training hours before they can take the final exam.

Once applicants have successfully completed all requirements they will receive their official NASET-PCP credential which is valid for three years from date of issue.

Do You Really Need a Paraprofessional Certificate?

Paraprofessional certificates are becoming increasingly popular and in demand as more and more people pursue a career in education. But do you really need one to be successful? The answer is both yes and no.

The truth is, having a paraprofessional certificate can be incredibly helpful in many ways. It can give you an edge when applying for jobs, demonstrate your commitment to the field, and provide you with additional knowledge that may not have been covered during a traditional college course. Plus, if you choose to pursue a higher degree or certification later on down the road, it may help make the process smoother.

That being said, there are many successful paraprofessionals who don’t have any formal training or certification. While having a certificate may give you an advantage over others without one, it is not always necessary for success. Many employers recognize that experience and dedication are just as important in determining whether someone would be a good fit for the job.

In the end, whether or not you should get a paraprofessional certificate ultimately depends on your individual goals and needs. If you want to stand out from other applicants or feel like it will help progress your career further down the road, then getting certified could be beneficial for you. On the other hand, if you already have experience working with children or feel confident about your skillset without official certification, then it may not be necessary for your particular situation.

Related: Paraprofessional Resume Examples

FAQs About Paraprofessional Certifications

Q1: What is a Paraprofessional Certification?

A1: A paraprofessional certification is an educational credential that demonstrates a person’s knowledge and skills in providing support services to teachers and other professionals in an educational setting. It is typically earned through completion of a college-level program or coursework, and may be offered by both traditional universities and online institutions.

Q2: Who needs to get a Paraprofessional Certification?

A2: Anyone who works in an educational setting as a teacher's aide, instructional assistant, learning specialist, or other related role should consider getting a paraprofessional certification. This credential can help demonstrate your qualifications for the job and can increase your job prospects.

Q3: How do I obtain a Paraprofessional Certification?

A3: To obtain a paraprofessional certification, you will need to complete an approved course of study that covers topics like classroom management, instructional strategies, student assessment, and more. You may be able to find programs at local colleges or universities, as well as online options from accredited institutions.

Q4: How long does it take to earn a Paraprofessional Certification?

A4: The amount of time it takes to earn a paraprofessional certification will depend on the program you choose and your previous education level. Most programs take between 6 months and 2 years to complete.

Q5: What are the benefits of having a Paraprofessional Certification?

A5: Having a paraprofessional certification can help demonstrate your qualifications for the job and give you an edge when applying for jobs in the field. It can also provide access to higher pay scales within the profession and open up opportunities for career advancement.