College of Health, Education and Social Transformation
School Social Work: Special Education Related Services
College of Health, Education and Social Transformation
School Social Work: Special Education Related Services
Advance Your Impact Through School Social Work
The Graduate Certificate in School Social Work: Special Education Related Services at New Mexico State University prepares social work professionals to support the academic, social, emotional, and behavioral success of students in school settings. Designed to meet the growing need for qualified school social workers, this specialized certificate provides advanced knowledge of special education services, educational systems, student assessment, family engagement, and evidence-based interventions that promote positive outcomes for children and adolescents.
Through coursework focused on educational policy, special education law, interdisciplinary collaboration, and student advocacy, participants gain the skills needed to serve as effective members of school-based support teams. Whether you are seeking to expand your professional credentials or transition into educational settings, this certificate equips you to make a meaningful difference in the lives of students and families.
Admission Deadlines
There are no fixed deadlines*
- Total credits: 13
Delivery Format
In-person or 100% online
Career Pathways
Graduates of the School Social Work: Special Education Related Services Graduate Certificate are prepared to support students and families in educational environments where specialized services are essential for student success. Professionals may pursue roles as school social workers, special education support specialists, student services coordinators, behavioral intervention specialists, family engagement coordinators, and multidisciplinary team members who collaborate with educators, counselors, psychologists, and administrators to address barriers to learning and improve student outcomes.
Why choose a Graduate Certificate in School Social Work: Special Education Related Services at NMSU?
This program offers unique opportunity to develop specialized expertise at the intersection of social work and education. As schools increasingly address complex student needs related to mental health, family support, behavioral challenges, and special education services, professionals with advanced training in school social work are more important than ever.
This certificate is designed to provide practical, career-focused preparation grounded in current educational policies, special education regulations, and evidence-based intervention strategies. Students learn from experienced faculty with expertise in social work, education, and student support services while gaining knowledge that can be immediately applied in school settings. The program emphasizes collaboration, advocacy, equity, and student-centered practice, preparing graduates to serve as effective leaders and change agents within educational communities.
Whether your goal is to expand your professional opportunities, strengthen your impact on student success, or meet specialized credentialing requirements, NMSU's School Social Work certificate provides the advanced preparation needed to support learners, families, and schools in meaningful and lasting ways.
13 credits
With just 13 credits, you get the skills you need to support students and families in educational environments.
The Graduate Certificate in School Social Work is designed for current MSW students and will equip them with the specialized knowledge and skills to become a school social worker. The coursework is grounded in evidence-based practices for all students, including those with disabilities and their families, across school, early childhood, and early education settings.
Take classes like:
- ECED 5110 - Working with Young Children with Special Needs, Ages 3-8
- SOWK 5540 - Introduction to School Social Work Practice in Diverse Communities
- SOWK 5560 - Advanced School Social Work Practice: Diverse Students and Families with Special Needs
- SOWK 5281 - Advanced Generalist Practicum Seminar I
Ready to take the next step?
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Scholarships and Financial Aid
At NMSU, we strive to offer competitively priced tuition to keep your tuition costs affordable. If you need financial aid, we’re ready to work with you to determine the best ways to finance your education.
Financial assistance includes loans, grants, and scholarship opportunities. To apply, use NMSU’s convenient Scholar Dollar$ one-stop scholarship application, which serves all students in the NMSU system.
NMSU students are also eligible for loans and grants. The first step in applying for financial aid is to complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Learn more about financial aid opportunities at NMSU.
Contact Financial Aid
Phone: 1-888-729-6678
Email: financialaid@nmsu.edu
Accreditation
New Mexico State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Specialized accreditation from other accrediting agencies is also granted for some programs. NMSU’s accreditation ensures that your education meets high-quality standards and that your credits are transferable.