Low Incidence Disabilities for Paraprofessionals Graduate Certificate at KU

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Certificate Overview

The graduate certificate in low incidence disabilities for paraprofessionals is an alternate teacher license program that prepares aspiring special education teachers who have at least one year experience working as a full-time special education paraprofessional and do not already hold a valid teacher license. Through real-world experiences in classrooms and mentorship, graduates gain knowledge of strategies to support the learning, curricular and developmental needs of students with extensive and pervasive support needs using an inclusive, strengths-based approach. Applicants who already have a teacher license and wish to add a low-incidence special education endorsement should explore KU’s graduate certificate in low incidence disabilities.

Career Outcomes with a Licensure Endorsement in Low Incidence Disabilities

This program meets the educational needs of students with extensive and pervasive support needs through an inclusive education that seeks and builds upon student strengths, preferences, values, and beliefs. These students have historically been designated as having a significant cognitive disability or multiple disabilities, including students with autism with concurrent cognitive, sensory, and physical support needs. Students who pursue graduate certificate in low incidence disabilities for paraprofessionals are likely to accept positions in areas such as:

  • Special education teacher
  • Program specialist
  • Instructional coach
  • Instructional consultant
  • Inclusion specialist

*This program satisfies the requirements for licensure endorsement in the state of Kansas, but does not fulfill the requirements needed to complete a master's degree. Note: Most teachers who complete our special education programs will take a few additional graduate courses required to finish the master's degree as well. The master's degree is an important goal for many teachers and may substantially increase teacher pay.

KU’s licensure programs strive to maintain accurate and up-to-date information about the educational requirements for licensure in U.S. states and territories. However, regulations are subject to change and varying interpretations. In addition to possible changes in educational requirements, licensure often includes additional requirements, such as specific examinations and additional training or practicum hours. It is highly recommended that students seek guidance from the appropriate licensing agency before beginning an academic program to ensure they know what is needed to obtain the license/certification/registration in the state in which they intend to practice and/or seek licensure.

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# 1
Top ranked Special Education public graduate program
#8
Public School of Education & Human Sciences
35
Minimum credit hours

U.S. News & World Report’s “Best Graduate Schools,” 2025-26

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