Certificate Programs from the COE’s Division of Education

Along with our many undergraduate and graduate degree programs, the College of Education’s (COE) Division of Education offers several non-degree certificates.  These programs are designed for students who currently hold a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree and offer the opportunity to enhance your education and add to your current credentials. 

In light of the rapidly increasing growth of fully online and hybrid format courses, there is a need for professionals to be able to develop and facilitate high-quality online learning. Our 12-credit hour Certificate in Online Teaching (Post B.A.) is specifically designed for graduate students, college faculty, K-12 teachers, community college instructors and others.  The program teaches students the most effective methods for teaching online courses.  Although it is offered year-round, the, fully online program must be taken in sequence.  Certificates are awarded to those who achieve a “B” or better in each of the four required classes.

Another post-B.A. offering is the Reading Teacher Certificate.  This program leads to an Illinois State Board of Education endorsement.  To be eligible, students must hold an Illinois or comparable out-of-state license in Early Childhood Education, Elementary, Secondary, or Special Education. In addition you must have already completed two years of teaching before taking the reading diagnosis course.  The certificate requires 24-credit hours. 

Also the Division of Education offers an Early Childhood Education (Post-BA) Certificate.  This is a “license only” track and is for licensed Elementary or Special Education teachers.  Please keep in mind that this does not lead to a M.A. degree. 

The professional education unit at GSU seeks to offer the highest quality academic programs, balancing innovation and best practice to meet the needs of adult lifelong learners.  Please see the College of Education’s website for contact information as well as details and requirements on all of our exceptional programs.    

Academic excellence and innovation are natural partners. At Governors State University you’ll find an abundance of both.  We have a highly diverse student body and our courses are taught by gifted professors. Our rich history, cultural amenities and a beautiful campus all contribute to making us one of best colleges in Chicago.