NASET Certifications

What's in the Course?

Board Certification for Advocacy in Special Education (BCASE)
Offered by the National Association of Special Education Teachers (NASET) and the American Academy of Special Education Professionals (AASEP)

The BCASE program is a rigorous, self-paced certification made up of 30 comprehensive units across 6 sequential modules. It equips you with the legal, practical, and interpersonal skills to become a confident, qualified special education advocate.

Legal Foundations of Special Education

Understand the laws and court rulings that shape special education today. Topics include:

• IDEA and Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE)

• The Endrew F. Supreme Court ruling

• IEP development and related services

• Least Restrictive Environment and Extended School Year

Assessment and Eligibility

Master the evaluation process, from referral to classification. Learn to:

• Interpret assessment data and scoring terminology

• Understand referral and evaluation protocols

• Navigate different methods of special education assessment

Understanding Exceptionalities

Gain expertise on the diverse needs of students. You’ll study:

• Intellectual and developmental disabilities

• ADHD, autism, learning disabilities, and emotional disturbances

• Communication disorders and traumatic brain injury

• Gifted education and early intervention programs

Principles of Advocacy Practice

Build your professional skillset with training in:

• Confidentiality and ethical responsibilities

• Advocacy roles and boundaries

• Active listening and negotiation strategies

• How to effectively support families and navigate school systems

Dispute Resolution Processes

Learn how to resolve conflicts and protect student rights through:

• IEP reviews and facilitated meetings

• State complaints and mediation

• Due process hearings and resolution meetings

How the Program Works

• 6 Modules released in order, one at a time

• Each unit includes: video lectures, PowerPoint presentations, supplemental videos, and readings

• Exams after each module (80% required to proceed)

• Certificates of completion awarded after each module

The BCASE Business Course is your practical guide to launching a successful advocacy practice. Whether you’re looking to consult part-time or build a full-fledged business, this course walks you through what to do and how to do it.

You’ll finish this course with a launch-ready business foundation and the confidence to start making an impact—while getting paid to do what you love.

No fluff. No filler. Just the step-by-step essentials you need to start advocating professionally.

What's in the Course?

Board Certification in IEP Development (BCIEP)
Offered by the National Association of Special Education Teachers (NASET)

The BCIEP program is a rigorous, self-paced certification comprised of 30 comprehensive units across 6 sequential modules. It provides both the legal foundation and practical skills to become a confident, highly qualified IEP Developer.

Foundations of the IEP Process

Establish a clear understanding of the IEP's purpose, legal context, and essential components. Topics include:

• Required components of an IEP under IDEA

• Special education referral and eligibility process

• The role and composition of the IEP Team

• Child Find, multidisciplinary evaluations, and informed consent

Federal Mandates and Core IEP Sections

Gain in-depth knowledge of what the law requires—and how to apply it. You will learn:

• How to write Present Levels of Academic Achievement and Functional Performance (PLEP)

• Setting measurable annual goals and tracking progress

• Designing Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) plans

• Including related services and accommodations in IEPs

Supplementary Aids, Accommodations, and Service Delivery

Develop the skills to tailor the learning environment to each student's needs. Topics include:

• Supplementary aids and services

• Accommodations vs. modifications

• Alternate assessments and how to document participation

• Structuring service delivery timelines and supports

Practical IEP Development and Documentation

Apply your knowledge to real-world IEP creation and review. You will:

• Write compliant and meaningful IEP goals

• Develop behavior objectives and short-term benchmarks

• Monitor progress and report to parents effectively

• Address participation in nonacademic and extracurricular activities

Related Services and Inclusive Supports

Master the range of services that support student success. Learn to:

• Recommend and justify related services such as speech therapy, OT, PT, counseling, and more

• Incorporate assistive technology and extended school year services

• Understand roles of therapists and support professionals in IEPs

Transition Planning and Family Collaboration

Prepare students for life beyond school with transition-focused IEPs. Topics include:

• Transition services beginning at age 16 (or earlier depending on state requirements)

• Postsecondary goals, vocational training, and independent living skills

• Working with families to co-create effective transition plans

• Legal, financial, and advocacy considerations in transition planning

How the Program Works

• 6 Modules released sequentially

• Each unit includes video lectures, PowerPoint presentations, supplemental readings, and videos

• Pass a multiple-choice exam (80% required) at the end of each module

• Earn a certificate of completion from NASET after each module

What's in the Course?

Board Certification in Inclusion in Special Education (BCISE)
Offered by the National Association of Special Education Teachers (NASET)

The BCISE program is a rigorous, self-paced certification made up of 30 comprehensive units across 5 sequential modules. It equips you with the instructional, legal, behavioral, and collaborative skills to become a confident, highly qualified Inclusion Specialist.

Overview of Special Education

Build foundational understanding of special education and its legal underpinnings. Topics include:

• Principles of special education and the IDEA law

• History of special education and landmark legislation

• IEP development and implementation

• Related services and assistive supports

• Least Restrictive Environment and Extended School Year services

• The evaluation and classification process for students with disabilities

Understanding Children with Special Needs

Deepen your expertise on a wide range of exceptionalities. You’ll study:

• Intellectual disabilities, learning disabilities, and ADHD

• Emotional and behavioral disorders

• Autism spectrum disorders and communication impairments

• Traumatic brain injuries and orthopedic impairments

• Gifted and talented students

Core Principles of Inclusion and Co-Teaching

Learn the instructional models and interpersonal strategies for inclusive teaching. Topics include:

• Inclusion classroom principles and co-teaching models

• Roles and responsibilities of educators in inclusive settings

• Effective communication and active listening in co-teaching

• Collaborating with paraprofessionals and families

• Pre-school preparation and inclusive classroom setup

• Grading students fairly and equitably in inclusive environments

Behavior and Social-Emotional Support

Master strategies for building supportive, well-managed classrooms. You will:

• Understand student behavior and its root causes

• Build student confidence and self-esteem

• Implement proactive classroom management techniques

• Conduct Functional Behavioral Assessments (FBA)

• Develop and implement effective Behavior Intervention Plans (BIP)

Instructional Methods and Inclusion-Focused Practices

Become skilled in inclusive instruction, curriculum design, and transition planning. You’ll learn to:

• Use a variety of co-teaching and delivery models

• Apply Universal Design for Learning (UDL) in planning lessons

• Integrate assistive technology into instruction

• Prepare students for post-secondary transition with comprehensive planning

How the Program Works

• 5 Modules released in sequential order

• Each unit includes: video lectures, PowerPoint presentations, supplemental videos, and readings

• Pass a multiple-choice exam (80% required) at the end of each module

• Receive a professional certificate of completion after each module

What's in the Course?

Board Certification in Classroom Management (BCCM)

Offered by the National Association of Special Education Teachers (NASET)

The BCCM program is a robust, self-paced certification comprised of 40 comprehensive units across 7 structured modules. It equips educators with the practical strategies, psychological insights, and real-world tools to lead a positive, productive classroom.

Foundations of Effective Classroom Management

Develop a strong understanding of the foundational principles behind creating well-managed classrooms. You will explore:

• The impact of classroom environment on student success

• Core responsibilities of students and teachers in managing behavior

• Best practices of highly effective educators

• Strategies for building student self-confidence

• Techniques for managing time and reducing teacher stress

• Recognizing and supporting students with emotional and behavioral challenges

Mastering Reinforcement and Discipline Strategies

Learn to apply research-based behavior management systems that encourage positive behavior and minimize disruptions. This module includes:

• The science behind positive and negative reinforcement

• When and how to use punishment appropriately

• Strategies for behavior extinction

• Creating effective reinforcement schedules

• Real classroom examples and applications

Establishing Expectations and Building Relationships

Discover how to set clear expectations and foster productive relationships with students and parents. You will:

• Learn how to organize and design your classroom for success

• Develop systems for getting to know students before the first day

• Create structures for meaningful parent communication

• Navigate difficult parent interactions and run successful conferences

• Resolve classroom conflict while maintaining trust and authority

Inclusion, Co-Teaching, and Classroom Management

Gain skills to manage diverse classrooms and work effectively with co-teachers and paraprofessionals. Topics include:

• The principles and practices of inclusive education

• Designing co-teaching models that support all students

• Communication skills for co-teachers and teams

• Managing shared responsibilities with paraprofessionals

• Classroom techniques tailored for inclusive settings

Behavioral Strategies for Diverse Needs

Get targeted support for managing behaviors in students with a range of disabilities. You’ll explore:

• Behavior plans for autism, ADHD, emotional disturbance, and more

• Understanding high-risk behaviors and their psychological roots

• Functional Behavioral Assessments (FBA) and Behavior Intervention Plans (BIP)

• Supporting students with trauma, intellectual disabilities, or communication challenges

• Using assistive technology and environmental design

Designing Instruction That Supports Classroom Management

Connect your classroom management strategies with engaging instruction. You’ll learn:

• How to write effective and flexible lesson plans

• Incorporating active learning to sustain attention

• Boosting student motivation and participation

• Integrating social-emotional learning into daily routines

• Creating a culturally responsive classroom climate

• Using differentiated instruction to minimize disruption

Data-Driven Decision Making in the Classroom

Understand how to gather and use classroom data to continuously improve your practice. This module covers:

• Systems for observing and recording classroom behavior

• Methods for analyzing student engagement and outcomes

• Ethical considerations in collecting behavioral data

• Making instructional adjustments based on trends

How the Program Works

• 7 Modules released sequentially

• Each unit includes video lectures, PowerPoint presentations, supplemental readings, and videos

• Pass a multiple-choice exam (80% required) at the end of each module

• Earn a certificate of completion from NASET after each module

BCCM gives educators the tools, training, and structure to transform classroom culture—making room for more teaching, more learning, and more student success.

What's in the Course?

Board Certification in Special Education (BCSE)
Offered by the National Association of Special Education Teachers (NASET) and the American Academy of Special Education Professionals (AASEP)

The BCSE is a self-paced, online certification comprised of 58 comprehensive units across 7 detailed modules. It provides educators with expert-level training in law, instruction, behavior, and leadership within the field of special education.

Module 1: Overview of Legal Issues in Special Education

Build foundational legal knowledge to navigate the complexities of special education law, student rights, and compliance.

• What is Special Education?
  Understand definitions, legal mandates, and prevalence.

• History of Special Education Law
  Trace the development of IDEA and other key legislation.

• FAPE (Free Appropriate Public Education)
  Explore what makes education "free" and "appropriate."

• Related Services
  Identify critical supports like OT, PT, and speech services.

• IEPs
  Master the purpose, structure, and legal requirements of Individualized Education Programs.

• LRE (Least Restrictive Environment) & ESY (Extended School Year)
  Learn placement principles and planning considerations.

Includes: Video lectures, PowerPoint presentations, supplemental readings and videos.

Module 2: Assessment in Special Education

Understand the tools and frameworks for evaluating student needs, eligibility, and progress.

• Assessment Methods
  Gain insights into observations, portfolios, and tests.

• Statistics
  Learn key statistical concepts used in interpreting assessments.

• Referral & Evaluation
  Master Child Find, MDTs, and eligibility meetings.

• Scoring Terminology
  Get fluent in percentiles, standard scores, and more.

Includes: Visual presentations, readings, real-world assessment samples.

Module 3: Response to Intervention (RTI)

A readings-based module covering foundational and advanced RTI practices.

• RTI Tiers I–III
  Examine multi-tiered interventions and progress monitoring.

• Screening & Identification
  Learn how at-risk students are flagged early.

• Parent Involvement & Fidelity
  Explore how families and systems ensure success.

Module 4: Understanding Students with Exceptionalities

Gain deep understanding of disabilities, learning styles, and effective support strategies.

• Categories of Exceptionality
  From intellectual disabilities to giftedness.

• Disability-Specific Strategies
  Learn best practices for ADHD, autism, LD, ED, and more.

• Trauma & Brain Injury
  Understand impact and intervention for students with TBI or emotional needs.

Includes: Expert-led lectures, readings, and classroom strategy videos.

Module 5: Special Education Eligibility

A comprehensive reading module detailing the 13 IDEA classifications and eligibility procedures.

• Learn eligibility criteria for:

  • Autism

  • Intellectual Disabilities

  • Emotional Disturbance

  • Orthopedic Impairments

  • Specific Learning Disabilities

  • And more...

Module 6: Critical Concepts in Special Education (Part 1)

Learn essential topics educators must master to support students and advocate effectively.

• Discipline of Students with Disabilities
  Explore due process and manifestation determination.

• Mediation & Due Process Hearings
  Understand resolution strategies.

• Inclusive Education
  Learn inclusion models, co-teaching strategies.

• Classroom Management
  Techniques tailored for special education classrooms.

Module 7: Critical Concepts in Special Education (Part 2)

Advanced behavioral, instructional, and transitional topics to deepen your professional practice.

• Functional Behavioral Assessments (FBA)

• Behavior Intervention Plans (BIP)

• Universal Design for Learning (UDL)

• Assistive Technology

• Transition Services for Adolescents with Disabilities

Includes: Case examples, instructional guides, and practical tools.

How the Program Works

• 7 modules released in sequence

• Each unit includes a video lecture, presentation slides, readings, and supplemental media

• Complete a multiple-choice exam (80% to pass) at the end of each module

• Receive a NASET/AASEP certificate of completion for each module

BCSE equips educators with the tools to lead, advocate, and elevate special education practices in every setting.

What's in the Course

The PSPP curriculum is divided into five modules, each focused on critical skills and knowledge for paraprofessionals working in special education settings. Here's what you’ll explore:

Module 1: Roles and Responsibilities of Paraprofessionals

• Define what it means to be a paraprofessional and explore common job titles.

• Understand responsibilities across instructional support, behavior management, health services, and data collection.

• Learn the distinctions between paraprofessional and teacher roles.

• Review classroom organization, teaching strategies, and communication with parents.

• Includes tools for observation, reporting, and setting objectives.

Module 2: Special Education Today: Basic Principles of Special Education

• Learn what defines special education and the principles behind it.

• Review classifications of disabilities recognized under IDEA.

• Understand foundational legal mandates like FAPE and UDL.

• Explore the steps in the special education process and the importance of appropriate language.

Module 3: Educating Children with Special Needs and Classroom & Behavior Management

• Examine placement options across different educational environments.

• Understand the structure and purpose of IEPs and related services.

• Gain classroom and behavior management strategies tailored for paraprofessionals.

• Learn how to motivate students and foster social interaction.

Module 4: Effective Communication and Collaboration with Teachers

• Understand the dynamics of teaching, supervision, and discipline styles.

• Learn communication techniques to enhance collaboration with teachers and support staff.

• Review a four-part process for working with students and reporting performance.

• Gain tools for planning, reflection, and maintaining a positive team relationship.

Module 5: Confidentiality, Professional Behavior and Ethical Responsibilities

• Learn the legal framework of FERPA and best practices for maintaining confidentiality.

• Review expectations for professional behavior including appearance, punctuality, and technology use.

• Understand the ethical standards for relationships with students, teachers, and parents.

• Explore strategies to avoid unprofessional conduct and promote dignity and respect.

Each module is supported by video lectures, PowerPoint presentations, supplemental readings, and additional videos to deepen your learning and practical application.