Professional Certificate

LC Online’s Learning Differences and Neurodiversity (LDN) certificate is an online, postbaccalaureate professional development program for educators and professionals who work with students with ADHD, autism, learning disabilities such as dyslexia, or executive function challenges.  

The program uniquely integrates current research findings with evidence-based practices, classroom strategies, and technologies. Courses offer graduate credit and the convenience of online learning, as well as the opportunity to interact with an engaged cohort through video conferences and discussions.​ 

Who will benefit from the certificate courses in learning differences and executive function?

• Learning/academic support specialists
• Disability service providers
• Transition coordinators
• College and university professors
• High school teachers
• Special education teachers
• Counselors
• Education consultants
• Psychologists
• ADHD coaches
• And more!

How will you benefit from the LDN certificate courses?

• You’ll develop a deeper appreciation of the unique experiences of students who learn differently.
• You’ll acquire an in-depth understanding of neurodiversity and evidence-based practices that help students thrive in the classroom.
• You’ll discover the dynamic role of technology in creating accessible instruction.
• You’ll learn methods for engaging and motivating students to help them achieve their goals.

Program Outcomes

Upon completion of the certificate program, students will be able to

• Use their knowledge of general and specialized supports to improve programs, supports, and services at the secondary and/or postsecondary levels.
• Facilitate the continuous improvement of education programs, supports, and services for neurodivergent students at the secondary and/or postsecondary levels.
• Conduct, evaluate, and use inquiry to guide professional practice.
• Provide leadership to formulate goals, set and meet high professional expectations, advocate for effective policies and evidence-based practices, and create positive and productive work environments.
• Use foundational knowledge of the field and program standards to inform practice and perform leadership responsibilities to promote the success of individuals who learn differently.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to improve programs, services, and outcomes for neurodiverse individuals.

Earn a certificate with the full series or take individual graduate courses. 

To earn a certificate, five courses are required: “Understanding and Supporting Diverse Learners,” a Capstone, and three other courses unique to their specialization. Click here to see the Course Schedule. 

Course Schedule 

• Multiple courses run simultaneously during each 8-week term.
• Allows you to start the series with LDN631: Understand and Supporting Diverse Learners (required for all specializations) in either the fall or early spring.
• Start with any course in the program with the exception of the Capstone Project.
• Courses are scheduled each academic year in a similar pattern as shown in the table below.
• Courses can also be taken individually with the exception of the Capstone Project.

Read brief course descriptions or click on the links below to see the syllabus for each course.