Starting a journey toward a career in Special Education is both exciting and meaningful, and at Southern Nazarene University (SNU), we're here to help you make that dream a reality. In partnership with the Oklahoma State Department of Education (OSDE), SNU proudly offers the Special Education Boot Camp. Boot Camp provides an accessible, streamlined pathway to Special Education teaching certification for individuals who want to impact students with special needs.
Summer is an ideal season for educators to invest in special training, and there’s no better time to enroll in SNU's Special Education Boot Camp. Whether you’re changing careers or stepping into education for the first time, this program can jumpstart your path to becoming a certified Special Education teacher. Recently, we sat down with Dr. Lynette Thompson, Program Director, and our Boot Camp team to talk about what makes this opportunity so unique.
What is the Special Education Boot Camp?
The Special Education Boot Camp is a focused and innovative program created by the OSDE to address the growing need for Special Education teachers in Oklahoma. Offered at SNU, this program provides a direct route to earning a provisional Special Education teaching certification.
The best part? It’s designed for those who already hold a bachelor's degree in any field. In just eight sessions—over 4 to 8 weeks—you can gain the training and support you need to step into a classroom and start making a difference.
As Dr. Thompson shares, "Special Education Bootcamp is not just a course; it's a journey that equips aspiring educators with the skills and knowledge needed for a successful career in Special Education."
Why Summer is the Best Time to Start
SNU offers a 4-week summer option, where classes meet twice per week. It’s a fast-track opportunity that allows you to finish while school is out and be ready to teach by August. Summer Bootcamp sessions are ideal for those who want to make the most of their downtime, earning new credentials without disrupting the school year or other work commitments.
With summer break offering a more flexible schedule for many people, now is the perfect time to complete your certification prep and step confidently into a classroom this fall.
Unmatched Support Every Step of the Way
We know navigating certification can feel overwhelming. That's why SNU provides dedicated support:
- Observation Hour Placement: We help secure placements for the required 30-hour field component.
- Expert Guidance: You’ll work closely with experienced instructors and program directors.
- Advising Team: Our advisors, including an “EdPlan Guru,” help you stay on track through the certification process.
As LaToya J., a Boot Camp graduate, says, "I learned a lot that has helped me in the field of special education. I now teach high school special education and apply the knowledge I gained from the Boot Camp program. A great program to jumpstart your career!"
Affordable and Accessible
The Special Education Boot Camp costs just $600—an affordable investment in your career. Although FAFSA cannot be applied directly to Boot Camp, SNU offers several payment options to make it manageable for everyone.
Additionally, while the program requires live participation, SNU understands busy schedules and offers a Zoom attendance option for those who cannot attend in person.
What Happens After Boot Camp?
Upon completing your coursework and observation hours, SNU will submit a recommendation to the OSDE on your behalf. After you submit your application and meet OSDE’s requirements, you’ll receive a provisional Special Education certificate.
This certificate allows you to start teaching immediately while working toward your standard certification over the next three years.
Even better, the coursework from Boot Camp rolls directly into further opportunities at SNU, helping you stay on a fast track to professional advancement.
Your Next Steps: Earning a Master's Degree
After Boot Camp, many educators choose to complete 18 additional hours of master's-level coursework in Special Education Administration at SNU. This coursework:
- Counts toward a Master of Arts in Administration of Special Education.
- Can exempt you from the OSAT Mild/Moderate Certification exam.
- May add a principal certification if you pass the required test, with no extra classes!
These 18 hours are eligible for FAFSA funding, and many participants may qualify for TEACH grants or Teacher Loan Forgiveness programs, further reducing the cost.
In just 22 months, you could be holding a master's degree while simultaneously completing your certification requirements—a significant career milestone in under two years.
Flexible Start Dates to Fit Your Life
Life is busy. We get it. That’s why Boot Camp is designed with flexibility in mind. Sessions are typically held one evening per week (often Tuesdays), fitting around your career and family commitments.
And if you have suggestions about days and times that work better for your schedule, we’re always open to feedback, because your success is our top priority.
A Curriculum Designed for Real-World Impact
The Boot Camp curriculum focuses on precisely what new Special Education teachers need:
- Special education policies and legislation
- Research-based instructional and behavioral strategies
- Real-world, hands-on experience through 30-hour field placements
- Practical preparation for day-one readiness in the classroom
Min C., a recent graduate, shared, "I am grateful for the invaluable information and resources that Professor Furr provided me. As a novice in the field of special education, she went above and beyond to prepare me to become a SPED teacher. Thank you!"
At SNU, we pride ourselves on creating an environment where students are supported, prepared, and encouraged every step of the way.
Why Choose SNU’s Special Education Boot Camp?
The Special Education Boot Camp at SNU isn’t just about checking boxes—it’s about building a meaningful career helping students thrive. With expert instructors, flexible options, an affordable cost, and a supportive community, there’s no better place to start.
Summer is calling. Your future in Special Education starts today.
