Top 11 Special Education Paraprofessional Certifications

Certifications for special education paraprofessionals are important in the job market because they demonstrate a level of knowledge and expertise that employers look for when hiring. They also provide evidence to employers that a paraprofessional is well-versed in the legal and ethical issues related to working with students with special needs, as well as being up-to-date on best practices. Certifications also can open up additional career opportunities, such as teaching or administrative positions. In addition, many states require certain certifications for paraprofessionals working in their public school systems. Having a certification demonstrates to employers that the individual has taken the initiative to further their professional development and is committed to providing quality services to individuals with disabilities.

The purpose of this article is to review and explain how the top certifications for Special Education Paraprofessionals can contribute to their career development.

What are Special Education Paraprofessional Certifications?

Special Education Paraprofessional Certification is a specialized certification program designed to help paraprofessionals work effectively in special education settings. This certification provides paraprofessionals with the knowledge, skills, and strategies needed to support students with disabilities and their families within the school setting. It includes instruction in areas such as: understanding the unique learning needs of students with disabilities; providing appropriate instruction and behavior interventions; working collaboratively with teachers, administrators, and other school personnel; and understanding special education laws.

Paraprofessionals who complete this certification will be better equipped to provide meaningful support for students with disabilities in their classrooms. They will have a better understanding of how to create positive learning environments where all students can succeed. Additionally, they will be able to assist teachers in providing effective instruction that meets the unique needs of each student. Finally, paraprofessionals who are certified in special education will be better prepared to advocate for their students’ rights under applicable laws and regulations.

Pro Tip: Make sure to research the state requirements for special education paraprofessional certification, as they vary from state to state. Additionally, look into any local or district certification requirements that may be in place in your area.

Related: What does a Special Education Paraprofessional do?

Top 11 Special Education Paraprofessional Certifications

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

1. Certified Special Education Paraprofessional (CSEP)

A Certified Special Education Paraprofessional (CSEP) is a professional who works with children with special needs in a school setting. The CSEP credential is awarded by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS). It is designed to recognize those paraprofessionals who have demonstrated the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to provide quality services to students with special needs.

In order to become certified as a CSEP, candidates must meet certain requirements. These include having at least two years of experience working in a special education setting, completing at least 120 hours of professional development related to special education topics, and passing the NBPTS certification exam. Additionally, applicants must submit an application form and pay the appropriate fees.

The process of becoming certified as a CSEP can take up to six months from start to finish. After submitting an application and fee, applicants will receive instructions on how to register for the certification exam. Once they have passed the exam, they will be issued their certificate and can begin using the CSEP credential in their work.

The cost of becoming certified as a CSEP varies depending on where you are located and which organization you are applying through. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $100-$500 USD for all required materials and fees associated with becoming certified.

2. Certified Autism Specialist (CAS)

A Certified Autism Specialist (CAS) is an individual who has completed specific training and coursework related to autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The certification is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the complexities of ASD, as well as strategies for supporting individuals with ASD.

In order to become certified, individuals must complete a minimum of 40 hours of approved coursework in areas such as assessment, diagnosis and treatment of ASD, educational interventions, behavior management, family support and advocacy. In addition, applicants must have a minimum of two years experience working with individuals with ASD or related disabilities.

The certification process typically takes between six months and one year to complete. Applicants must submit proof of completion of the required coursework along with verification of their work experience in order to be considered for certification.

The cost for the certification process varies depending on the provider; however, it typically ranges from $400-$600 USD.

3. Certified Educational Paraprofessional (CEP)

A Certified Educational Paraprofessional (CEP) is a professional who works in an educational setting, such as a school or college, to provide support services to students and staff. They may assist with classroom instruction, help manage student behavior, and provide administrative support. The CEP certification is offered by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS).

The CEP certification requires applicants to have completed at least two years of postsecondary education or equivalent work experience. Applicants must also pass an assessment that tests their knowledge of educational paraprofessional practices. The assessment consists of three parts: a written exam, an oral interview, and a practical demonstration of skills.

To get the CEP certification, applicants must register on the NBPTS website and pay the registration fee. After registering, applicants will be given access to study materials and practice assessments to prepare for the exam. Once they have passed the exam and demonstrated their skills in the practical demonstration portion of the assessment, they will receive their CEP certification.

The cost for getting certified as a CEP varies depending on where you take your test and how much preparation you need for it. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $200-$500 USD to become certified as a CEP.

4. National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS)

The National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS) is a non-profit organization that sets high and rigorous standards for what accomplished teachers should know and be able to do. It is an independent, voluntary system of certification based on professional standards developed by teachers, for teachers. The NBPTS certification process is designed to recognize and reward the accomplishments of experienced, highly accomplished educators who meet these standards.

It typically takes three years to complete the NBPTS certification process. During this time, applicants must demonstrate their knowledge and expertise in a variety of areas related to teaching such as student learning, curriculum development, instructional strategies, assessment practices, and school culture. Applicants must also submit evidence of their professional growth through portfolios and videos that demonstrate their teaching practice.

To get started with the NBPTS certification process, applicants must first register online at https://www.nbpts.org/become-certified/. After registering, applicants will receive an application packet that includes instructions on how to prepare for the certification process as well as information about fees associated with the application process. The cost of applying for NBPTS certification varies depending on the type of certificate being sought; however, it typically ranges from $500-$2,000 USD.

5. National Association of Special Education Teachers (NASET)

The National Association of Special Education Teachers (NASET) is a professional organization dedicated to providing support and resources to special education teachers. It was established in 1979 and has since grown to include over 10,000 members.

NASET offers a variety of services and benefits for its members, including professional development opportunities, access to a library of resources, discounts on educational materials, and networking opportunities. In addition, NASET provides certification programs that enable special education teachers to demonstrate their expertise in the field.

To become certified through NASET, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements and complete an application process. This includes submitting proof of at least two years of teaching experience in the field of special education or related areas; passing the appropriate exams; completing continuing education credits; and paying the associated fees. The entire process typically takes between six months and one year from start to finish.

The cost for certification through NASET varies depending on the type of certification sought. For example, the fee for Level I Certification is $125 for NASET members or $175 for non-members; Level II Certification costs $150 for members or $200 for non-members; and Level III Certification costs $175 for members or $225 for non-members.

6. Council for Exceptional Children (CEC)

The Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) is an international professional association of educators dedicated to advancing the success of children with exceptionalities. It was founded in 1922 and has grown to become the largest professional organization for special education professionals. CEC provides resources, programs, and services that support special educators in their work with students who have disabilities or who are gifted.

CEC offers a variety of membership levels, ranging from student memberships to lifetime memberships. All members receive access to CEC's online library, discounts on professional development opportunities, access to CEC's job board, and more. To become a member, you must complete an online application form and pay the required dues. The amount of dues varies depending on your membership level.

Membership in CEC can take up to two weeks to process after payment is received. Once your membership is approved, you will receive a welcome packet with information about CEC's benefits and services as well as instructions on how to use them.

The cost of joining CEC depends on the type of membership you choose. Student memberships are free; regular memberships range from $50-$200 per year; and lifetime memberships range from $500-$2,000 depending on age and other factors.

7. Assistive Technology Practitioner Certification (ATP-C)

Assistive Technology Practitioner Certification (ATP-C) is a certification program designed to recognize professionals who are knowledgeable and experienced in the field of assistive technology. The ATP-C certification is offered by the Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America (RESNA).

The ATP-C certification requires applicants to have at least two years of experience working with assistive technology, as well as a bachelor’s degree or higher in a related field. Applicants must also pass a written exam that covers topics such as assessment, selection, implementation, and evaluation of assistive technology.

It typically takes between six months and one year to complete the requirements for the ATP-C certification. During this time, applicants must complete an online application form, submit proof of their educational qualifications and experience, and take the written exam.

The cost of obtaining the ATP-C certification varies depending on the applicant’s individual circumstances. Generally speaking, it costs approximately $450 USD for RESNA members and $550 USD for non-members to apply for the certification.

In order to maintain their ATP-C certification status, practitioners must participate in continuing education activities every three years.

8. Special Education Teacher Assistant Certificate Program (SETAC)

The Special Education Teacher Assistant Certificate Program (SETAC) is a specialized certification program designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to assist special education teachers in providing instruction and support for students with disabilities. The SETAC program is offered through accredited institutions, such as community colleges or universities, and typically takes between one and two years to complete.

To be eligible for the SETAC program, applicants must have a high school diploma or equivalent, pass a background check, and demonstrate an understanding of basic concepts related to special education. Once accepted into the program, students will take courses such as introduction to special education, instructional strategies for students with disabilities, behavior management techniques, and classroom management techniques.

The cost of the SETAC program can vary depending on the institution offering it. Generally speaking, tuition costs range from $500-$1,500 per semester depending on the number of credits taken. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with enrollment in the program such as application fees and book costs.

Upon successful completion of the SETAC program, graduates will receive a certificate in Special Education Teacher Assistant that is recognized by most states. This certification allows graduates to work as teacher assistants in special education classrooms or other settings where they can help support students with disabilities.

9. Applied Behavior Analysis Certificate Program (ABA-CP)

Applied Behavior Analysis Certificate Program (ABA-CP) is a specialized program designed to provide practitioners with the skills and knowledge necessary to work effectively in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis. The program provides a comprehensive overview of the principles, techniques, and strategies used in Applied Behavior Analysis. It covers topics such as behavior assessment, treatment planning, data collection, intervention design and implementation, ethical considerations, and professional development.

The ABA-CP typically takes two years to complete. The program consists of four courses: Introduction to Applied Behavior Analysis; Assessment & Treatment Planning; Intervention Design & Implementation; and Professional Development & Ethics. Each course is offered online or in person at an approved training center.

To get the ABA-CP certification, you must complete all four courses with a passing grade and pass an examination administered by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB). The cost of the ABA-CP varies depending on where you take the courses and whether you take them online or in person. Generally speaking, it costs approximately $2,000 - $3,000 for all four courses plus the examination fee.

10. Advanced Paraprofessional Certificate in Special Education (APCSE)

The Advanced Paraprofessional Certificate in Special Education (APCSE) is a certificate program designed to provide paraprofessionals with the necessary skills and knowledge to work with students who have special needs. The program focuses on helping paraprofessionals understand the complexities of working with students who have disabilities, and provides them with strategies for supporting these students in the classroom.

The APCSE program typically takes between one and two years to complete, depending on the individual's course load and other commitments. The program consists of six courses that cover topics such as behavior management, classroom instruction, assessment, and collaboration. Students must also complete a practicum or internship experience in order to receive their certificate.

To get an APCSE certificate, individuals must first meet certain eligibility requirements such as having at least two years of experience working with special needs students and having a high school diploma or GED equivalent. They must then apply for admission into an accredited college or university offering the APCSE program. Once admitted, they will need to complete all required courses and practicum/internship experiences within the allotted time frame.

The cost of the APCSE program can vary depending on factors such as location and institution type. Generally speaking, tuition costs range from $2,000 - $5,000 for the entire program. Additional fees may also be required for books and materials needed for coursework.

11. Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports Certification (PBIS-C).

Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports Certification (PBIS-C) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated expertise in developing, implementing, and evaluating Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) systems. PBIS is an evidence-based framework for promoting positive behavior in schools, homes, and communities. The certification program was developed by the National Association of State Directors of Special Education (NASDSE), in collaboration with the Center on Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS).

The PBIS-C certification process involves completing a series of online modules that cover topics such as: understanding PBIS; developing school-wide systems; using data to inform decisions; designing effective interventions; and evaluating outcomes. After completing the modules, applicants must submit a portfolio demonstrating their knowledge and experience with PBIS. Once accepted into the program, applicants must complete an additional 10 hours of self-paced study before taking a final exam. Upon successful completion of the exam, applicants will be awarded the PBIS-C certification.

The entire process typically takes about six months to complete. The cost of the certification varies depending on whether you are applying as an individual or as part of an organization. For individual applicants, the cost is $250 for NASDSE members or $350 for nonmembers. For organizations, the cost is $1,000 for NASDSE members or $1,500 for nonmembers.

Do You Really Need a Special Education Paraprofessional Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the role you plan to play in a special education program. If you are an educator and want to work with students with disabilities, then having a special education paraprofessional certificate is likely essential.

A special education paraprofessional certificate will help demonstrate your knowledge of working with students who have disabilities, as well as provide evidence that you understand the unique needs of these students and how to best support them. It will also show that you have been trained in the various strategies used for teaching and supporting students with disabilities.

If you already possess a bachelor’s degree or higher, then it is possible to become certified without needing a special education paraprofessional certificate. However, having this certification can be beneficial in terms of job prospects and career advancement opportunities. In addition, if you are looking for additional certifications such as those related to specific types of disabilities or classroom management techniques, then having this certification may be necessary.

Finally, it is important to note that many states require special education paraprofessionals to obtain state licensure before they can work in their field. The requirements for obtaining licensure vary by state but typically involve completing coursework related to working with special needs students or passing an examination related to the subject matter. Therefore, having a special education paraprofessional certificate may be required in order to meet these qualifications.

In conclusion, whether or not you need a special education paraprofessional certificate depends on what type of job or career path you pursue within the field of special education. While some positions may not require it, others may benefit from having this certification and may even require it for state licensure purposes.

Related: Special Education Paraprofessional Resume Examples

FAQs About Special Education Paraprofessional Certifications

1. What qualifications do I need to become a special education paraprofessional?

Answer: You will typically need to have at least an associate degree or two years of college coursework in a related field, such as early childhood education or special education, or a high school diploma with at least two years of experience working with children with disabilities.

2. Is there any type of certification required for special education paraprofessionals?

Answer: Yes, some states may require you to pass a competency exam or be certified as a paraprofessional by the state department of education. Check with your state's requirements for more information.

3. How long does it take to get certified as a special education paraprofessional?

Answer: The amount of time it takes to become certified can vary depending on the state and the certification program you choose. Generally, it takes anywhere from 6 months to 1 year to complete the process.

4. What types of jobs can I get with a special education paraprofessional certification?

Answer: Special education paraprofessionals can work in schools as instructional aides, teaching assistants, mentors, and tutors for students with disabilities. They can also work in other settings such as day care centers and residential facilities for people with disabilities.

5. Are there online courses available for special education paraprofessional certifications?

Answer: Yes, many colleges and universities offer online courses and programs that are specifically designed for those interested in becoming certified as special education paraprofessionals. Be sure to research each program carefully before enrolling in order to ensure that it meets your individual needs and goals.