The foundation for student success is the environment in which they learn. Students must feel physically and emotionally safe in the classroom and feel supported by their teacher and classmates. In light of numerous issues with bullying and violence in schools, this online certificate program addresses the pressing need in K-12 institutions to address the social and emotional needs of students and teachers through systematic changes to school climate.
The first program of its kind in the state, this program provides a unique focus on the ways that culturally responsive practices, school equity, and diversity and inclusion can better inform SEL frameworks with the whole child in mind. Our certificate draws on cross-disciplinary research to prepare teachers, administrators and other key school personnel with the knowledge and skills needed to ensure lasting structural changes to positively affect school climate. Coursework builds on itself and culminates in a hands-on capstone project, in which you will address an applied problem of practice within your respective school environment.
This graduate certificate program prepares you to facilitate the academic achievement of students, enhance the collaborative and supportive work environment of teachers, and build strong relationships with the families and communities that you serve. Coursework critically examines the foundations of social and emotional learning and builds into a self-defined capstone project that provides you the opportunity to implement and evaluate an action-research plan within your school.
Certificate in Social and Emotional Learning and School Climate
Program of Study
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| SEL 600 | Introduction to Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) and School Climate: Academy/Orientation | 1 |
| SEL 601 | Research Deep Dive - Social and Emotional Learning and School Climate | 3 |
| SEL 602 | Self-Care and Resiliency for Practitioners | 3 |
| SEL 603 | Transforming Instruction with SEL Insights | 3 |
| SEL 604 | Leadership for SEL School Communities | 3 |
| SEL 605 | SEL Capstone Planning Project | 1 |
| SEL 606 | Capstone Implementation Project | 1 |
| Total Credits | 15 | |
Admission Requirements
Applications for the Certificate in Social and Emotional Learning and School Climate online graduate program are requested by May 8 for enrollment beginning in late July. To qualify for admission to the certificate program, applicants must have a bachelor’s degree in education or a related field from an accredited institution with a minimum GPA of 3.00. Candidates also must be employed in a school-based or educational setting.
Applicants must submit:
- completed application form
- resume
- letter of intent
- official transcripts of all undergraduate and graduate work completed