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Boot Camp

Special Education Boot Camp: A Pathway to Special Education Certification

The Non-Traditional Route to Special Education Teacher Certification allows individuals with a minimum bachelor’s degree to obtain a special education certification.

Candidates complete a 150-hour program with 120 hours of special education training known as “Boot Camp” and 30 hours of field experience.

Upon completion, the State Board of Education will issue a one-year provisional certificate to teach mild/moderate or severe/profound disabilities in grades PreK-12.

Candidates who meet the following criteria may attend Western Heights Boot Camp at no cost:

  • Have earned any four-year degree from an institution of higher education holding regional accreditation;
  • Have a grade point average of 2.75 or higher from a previous degree program;
  • Have a recommendation from a representative at a school or institution of higher education;
  • Able to pass a national background check;
  • Committed to completing 18 hours toward a Master's Degree in Special Education within three years.

What to Expect

  • OSDE asynchronous curriculum modules on the Canvas platform.
  • Four synchronous classroom learning days.
  • Field experience requirements available during summer school.

How to Enroll

Contact Jill Hilst, Director of Special Services, for an application form.

  • Email | jill.b.hilst@westernheights.k12.ok.us
  • Phone | (405) 261-6730 Important Dates

The enrollment deadline is May 24th | Class begins May 29th.

  • Friday dates (9:00 - Noon) | June 2nd, June 9th, June 16th, and June 23rd.
  • The last day of the course is July 2nd.*
  • *Field experience hours are due within 30 days after the last day