Special Education Paraprofessional
Certificate of Achievement Education · Santiago Canyon College · 2025-2026 Catalog
The Certificate of Achievement in Special Education Paraprofessional will prepare the student for an entry-level position requiring practical skills and knowledge to work with persons with disabilities in a variety of educational settings. This certificate program also supports the requirements of federal legislation that all paraprofessionals/instructional assistants/aides in Title schools be “highly qualified.” In addition, the courses introduce the student to career opportunities in special education or other disability-related fields and/or provide major preparation for transfer to four-year institutions to continue a course of study in special education.
Program Courses & Requirements
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| Special Education Paraprofessional, CA: Complete all of the following | 14-15 | |
| Certificate Requirements | 14-15 | |
| EDUC 209 | Roles and Responsibilities of the Special Education Paraprofessional | 3 |
| CDEV 205 | Introduction to Children with Special Needs | 3 |
| EDUC 211 | Classroom Practices for Diverse Learners | 3 |
| Please select CDEV107 or PSYC157. Credit will be awarded for only one course. | ||
| CDEV 107 | Child Growth and Development (DS1) | 3 |
| PSYC 157 | Introduction to Child Psychology | 3 |
| Please select CNSL118 or EDUC110. Credit will be awarded for only one course. | ||
| CNSL 118 | Self Exploration and the Teaching Profession | 2 |
| EDUC 110 | The Teaching Experience: Exploration | 3 |
Learning Outcomes
- Demonstrate analysis and knowledge of the personal and team roles and responsibilities of the Special Education Paraeducator in the public school which includes diagnosis and implementation strategies for students with special needs.