What is the Graduate Certificate in K-12 Computer Science Education?

The Graduate Certificate in K-12 Computer Science Education prepares K-12 educators to teach computational thinking and computer science ideas at the elementary and secondary levels. Domains include computational thinking, algorithmic thinking, breaking down complex problems, abstraction, generalizing principles to solve problems, programming tools, and the development of creative thinking. Teachers learn to teach these concepts and skills through culturally relevant pedagogy, attending to how culture and context impact student learning. This GC signifies that you have foundations in theories and practices of computer science and computational thinking. 

The Graduate Certificate in K-12 Computer Science Education:

• is 9 credits, 3 courses – CEP 814, CEP 824, CEP 833
• signifies that students have foundations to teach computational thinking and computer science ideas at the elementary and secondary levels
• can be completed as a stand-alone credential or as a part of the MAET degree program or other University degree programs

Why should I do it?

Today’s students’ need to move beyond consumers of technology and become creators of technological artifacts that can be used to solve problems. The Graduate Certificate in K-12 Computer Science Education will give you the foundation to teach computer science at the elementary and secondary level.

Teachers who are interested in increasing their knowledge of computer science (CS) and how CS ideas can be taught at the elementary and secondary level should enroll in this graduate certificate. Students in this certificate program will go beyond just “coding” and explore how computer science impacts our world and how CS ideas can be integrated to solve problems in other disciplines.

What do students say?

“I have never had such a well put together class on D2L! Designed to meet the needs of students with differing abilities and backgrounds.” – CEP 833 Student, Summer 2020

“I was so excited for new content to drop each week and looked forward to the challenges.” – CEP 833 Student, Summer 2020

“I learned a lot about computational thinking and how to apply this with kids. My thinking about certain CT concepts was pushed.” – CEP 814 Student, Fall 2020

“The strengths were not just covering the topics, but the teaching of the topics and the Feedback Notebook.” – CEP 824 Student, Spring 2020

How much is it?

Depending on the application path you choose and where you live, tuition rates differ. Please visit our Tuition and Rates page for a listing of all current tuition rates.

Graduate Certificate students are not eligible for federal financial aid.

How long will it take me?

You have 3 years to complete your K-12 Computer Science Education Graduate Certificate. You can enroll in 1 course at a time based on when courses are offered.

The fastest you could complete the K-12 Computer Science Education GC is 3 semesters (just under 1 calendar year). CEP 814 is a full-semester Fall course. CEP 824 is a full-semester Spring course. CEP 833 is a 7-week, Summer Session 1 course that runs May to June.

You and your GC academic advisor will work out the best plan for your life and goals.

When can I start?

You can start the Graduate Certificate in K-12 Computer Science Education program any Fall, Spring, or Summer Session 1. Please check our Times and Locations page for the most updated information about course start times.

Applications must be received one month before you would like to start classes.

How do I apply?

To apply, visit the Graduate Certificate Apply page. The Graduate Certificate in K-12 Computer Science Education code is 6787.

Applications must be received one month before you would like to start classes.