Graduate Certificate in Inclusive Computer Science Education — Portland

Program Overview

Addressing a regional gap in formal computer science training for PreK-12 educators, Northeastern’s Graduate Certificate in Inclusive Computer Science Education is offered through the Roux Institute in Portland, Maine, and provides the skills and knowledge for effective, inclusive computer science and computational thinking in classrooms from PreK through 12. The certificate is intended for pre-service and in-service PreK-12 educators, and as a launching point for exploration of computer science education career pathways. Current educators will learn the integration and pedagogical approaches to computer science and computational thinking, and will receive a fundamental baseline of knowledge in computer science topics that include exposure to programming and discrete mathematics. 

  • Portland

    Location

  • Full-Time
    Part-Time

    Commitment

  • 8-16 months

    Duration of Program

Unique Features

  • Students will develop and practice skills in fundamental programming and mathematical principles to set foundational knowledge in computer science and computational thinking. 
  • Coursework will consistently incorporate methods for in-classroom implementation at the K-12 level, including the development of relevant lesson plans and comprehensive integration and delivery of computer science topics. 
  • Participants will be introduced to multiple pedagogical approaches to teaching and integrating computer science and computational thinking across grade bands. 

Program Objectives

  • Empower learners to create small- to medium-sized computational artifacts that others can read and understand. 
  • Familiarize students with common computer science and computational thinking topics, tools, and methods. 
  • Instruct learners to use appropriate mathematical principles to solve computational problems, prove correctness, and analyze algorithms. 
  • Develop learners’ ability to identify and use appropriate modern classroom pedagogical techniques in the delivery of dedicated computer science instruction and computer science instruction that is integrated into another subject area. 
  • Foster participants’ skills to deliver computer science and computational thinking lessons that support student learning across multiple grade bands. 
  • Allow students to engage in self- and peer-evaluation to continually improve and develop as a teacher. 

Career Outlook

As of 2022, 23 states require computer science to be taught in every high school – up from just four in 2017. Students who complete the Graduate Certificate in Inclusive Computer Science Education will help meet the growing demand for K-12 teachers with these skill sets in Maine, New England, and across the country. They’ll also be positioned to assume leadership roles in curriculum development and implementation for school systems at every level. 

Coursework

Coursework for the Graduate Certificate in Inclusive Computer Science Education will engage students in select courses from Northeastern’s Align Master’s in Computer Science program, while also featuring custom-designed courses specific to the needs of regional K-12 educators.

Admission Requirements

  • Online application and fee
  • Unofficial undergraduate/graduate transcripts (you can submit official transcripts from all colleges/universities attended at the time of admission)
  • Statement of purpose that should include career goals and expected outcomes and benefits from the program
  • Recent professional resumé listing detailed position responsibilities
  • Three letters of recommendation

Admission Dates

Applicants must submit the online application and all required admission materials no later than the stated deadlines to be considered for admission. Admissions decisions are made on a rolling basis.

  • Domestic students: August 1

Program Curriculum

Please view the Course Catalog for information regarding the program curriculum.

Experiential Learning

Learning integrated with professional experience is a hallmark of Northeastern and the Roux Institute. Students gain a clear understanding of real-world industry needs in Portland, the state of Maine, and the Northeast—and valued workplace skills like communication and teamwork. All opportunities enable students to build their resumés, expand their professional networks, and chart a path to in-demand careers.