Professional Development (Non-Degree)

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General Professional Development

Professional Development (PD) status is designed for those who hold at least a baccalaureate degree and wish to improve their professional skills by enrolling in individual courses. The application for permission to enroll as a PD student may be found on the Curry website. Enrollment in specific courses requires the approval of both the instructor and the advisor. If enrolling on a full-time basis (i.e., 12 credits per semester), PD students must take a minimum of one course in the Curry School of Education. PD students may enroll only in instructor-led classes (not independent studies). During their enrollment, PD students are subject to the Graduate Academic Regulations of the Curry School of Education.

Any PD student who wishes to apply for a degree program must submit an online application, required test scores, at least two letters of recommendation, a complete transcript, and a current statement of professional goals. It is possible to apply up to 6 graduate credits toward a degree. The student’s advisor must approve such credit. All other University of Virginia course work must be earned after admission to a degree program. Students planning to become degree-seekers are responsible for knowing the requirements for admission to, and completion of, that degree.

Professional Development leading to Licensure or Endorsement Certificates

Applicants interested in certificate programs in Special Education (Northern Virginia Center) must submit all required materials, including the online application and passing Praxis I scores or acceptable SAT or ACT scores by application deadlines. Students accepted into licensure programs must earn grades of B- or better to remain enrolled. Curry will process students’ licensure applications, if submitted within two years after completion of coursework. Students missing the deadline will assume responsibility for obtaining licensure from the state.

Applicants interested in the certificate program resulting in endorsement in Administration and Supervision (Curry and SCPS Centers) must also complete the online application to be considered for admission.

For more information, go to the Curry website (http://www.curry.edschool.virginia.edu)