Alternative Special Education–Mild Intervention Certificate

Make a difference.

Through our online Alternative Special Education–Mild Intervention Certificate program, you’ll gain the skills and qualifications needed to become a fully licensed special education teacher, empowering you to make a lasting, positive impact on your students’ lives.

young kids pointing in class

Prepare to change lives.

The U.S. Department of Education reports special education teacher shortages in 39 states and Washington, D.C., across various disciplines and age groups. With Butler University’s online Alternative Special Education–Mild Intervention Certificate program, you can help address this critical need. 

Our program offers two flexible tracks: a 21-credit hour track that can be completed in as little as 15 months and a 24-credit hour track designed for 24 months, with the option to finish sooner. Both tracks are eligible for I-SEAL funding, and the 24-credit track is eligible for a $10,000 scholarship for students who commit to teaching in Indiana for at least five years.

This graduate certificate prepares you to meet the challenges of today’s diverse, dynamic classrooms. Our courses emphasize research-based teaching methods and include extensive guided clinical experiences, allowing you to apply concepts from coursework in authentic school and community settings.

Aligned with the 2020 Council for Exceptional Children’s Initial K-12 Practice-Based Professional Preparation Standards for Special Educators, the Butler Alternative Special Education–Mild Intervention Certificate ensures you’re ready to make a meaningful impact as a special education teacher. 

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Admission Information

Interested candidates must have their application materials submitted by the following dates to be considered for the 2025 cohort group beginning May 12.

Priority Deadline: April 4, 2025
Final Deadline: April 25, 2025

Program Highlights

The Alternative Special Education–Mild Intervention Certificate program is a fully online, 21- or 24-credit hour program with only one required in-person class meeting per semester. Graduates of the program will be prepared for licensure in K-12 Special Education-Mild Intervention. 

Thousands of young people are waiting for special education teachers.

“I promote the idea all the time. Men being in special education is huge,” said alumnus Brandon Brooks, who taught special education in the MSD of Lawrence Township (Indiana).

Brandon Brooks