What is Social Emotional Learning (SEL)?

Social Emotional Learning (SEL) is an empirically-based approach to the non-academic barriers that students face in order to achieve a set of positive goals. Research shows that 1 in 5 students will experience some type of mental health issue during their time in school. This certificate is designed to help teachers and prospective teachers learn how to create positive classroom environments and how to execute evidence-based, age-appropriate strategies to foster social, emotional, and behavior wellness in PreK-12 students within a multi-tiered system of support.

Drexel’s online Social, Emotional, and Behavioral Wellness certificate program is an endorsement program from the Pennsylvania Department of Education.

What can you do with a Social, Emotional, and Behavioral Wellness Certificate?

An endorsement in Social, Emotional, and Behavioral Wellness further prepares professional educators to address non-academic barriers to learning. The program is intended for teachers and administrators who recognize the importance of supporting preK-12 students who have experienced trauma or adverse childhood experiences. Graduates of the program will be able to distinguish themselves among their peers as having competencies with this growing population of students.

Individuals who complete a SEL certificate program might pursue one of the following career paths:

• School counselors
• Teachers
• Preschool teacher

How long does it take to earn a Social Emotional and Behavioral Wellness Certificate?

• Instructional Delivery: Online
• Calendar Type: Quarter
• Expected Time to Completion: 1 year
• Number of Credits to Completion: Students complete 4 classes (3 credits each) for a total of 12 credits. Students will also need to complete 15 hours of field experience each term.

Course descriptions may be found in the Drexel University Course Catalog.

SOCIAL EMOTIONAL AND BEHAVIORAL WELLNESS PROGRAM OUTCOMES

Upon completion of the social emotional and behavioral wellness certificate, students will:

• Gain an understanding of social emotional disorders in children
• Learn research-based practices and assessments to support students suffering from trauma
• Complete a field placement experience and gain real-world work experience
• Learn how to collaborate with parents, students, and the school community to promote social emotional wellness

What are the admissions requirements for a Social Emotional and Behavioral Wellness Certificate?

• Bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution
• Undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher (graduate GPAs will be considered along with the undergraduate GPA
• A Pennsylvania Instructional I or Instructional II teaching certificate
• Completed Application Form
• Two letters of recommendation
• Official transcripts from all universities or colleges and other post-secondary educational institutions (including trade schools) attended
• A personal essay that explains why you are interested in the program
• A current resume
• Additional requirements for international students

Who is eligible to earn a Social Emotional and Behavioral Wellness Certificate?

• Certificate Level: Graduate
• Admissions Requirements: Bachelor's Degree
• Certificate Type: Post-Baccalaureate
• Financial Aid Eligibility: Not Aid Eligible

WHO SHOULD APPLY FOR DREXEL’S EMOTIONAL AND BEHAVIORAL WELLNESS CERTIFICATE?

The SEL endorsement program is ideal for:

• Current K-12 teachers
• K-12 School Support staff (must have an instructional I or II teaching certificate)
• School counselors
• Principals
• School Administrators
• School District Superintendents

How do I apply to earn a Social Emotional and Behavioral Wellness Certificate?

Drexel’s Social, Emotional, and Behavioral Wellness certificate program is offered entirely online. Students can get started by filling out the Drexel University Online application.