Earn Graduate-Level Credit for Your Professional Development
The University of San Diego’s Division of Professional & Continuing Education (PCE) partners with approved organizations to offer Graduate-Level Extension Credit (GLEC) for professional development activities. These online credit validation courses function the same as online courses offered through USD and formally recognize learning completed through trainings, conferences, and workshops.
Graduate-Level Extension Credit (GLEC) is equivalent to graduate-level university units and may be applied toward license renewal, professional development requirements, salary advancement, credentialing, or potential transfer toward advanced degree pathways (e.g., MA, EdD, PhD) at institutions that accept external graduate-level credit. Acceptance and applicability of credit are determined by the receiving institution or employer, and participants are responsible for verifying eligibility prior to enrollment or purchase.
Please note: GLEC earned through USD’s Credit Validation Program does not apply toward a master’s or doctoral degree at the University of San Diego.
On this page, educators can explore all currently available online credit validation courses offered through USD’s partnerships. Each course is designed to support teacher development, expand professional skill sets, and strengthen instructional practices, while providing flexibility for busy educators.
Step 1: Browse Available CoursesExplore all eligible online courses on this page offered in partnership with USD. If a course displays “Request Information”, it means enrollment is not yet open or has already closed. Please reach out to us, and we can help determine whether the organization plans to offer the course again or if late enrollment may be possible.
Step 2: Select a CourseClick on the course title and View Course to view full details. In the course details section, you will find the partner organization’s website link or contact information to complete enrollment for the course.
Step 3: Register with the Partner OrganizationComplete your registration directly with the partner organization. Follow their instructions to begin the course and pay any required enrollment fees.
Step 4: Register for University CreditAfter confirming your registration with the partner organization, return to USD’s website.
Step 5: Complete the CourseParticipate fully in the online course through the partner organization and complete all required assignments, activities, and assessments.
Step 6: Partner Organization Submits GradesAfter you finish, the partner organization will submit your final grade to USD or you will be required to submit a certificate of completion to [email protected].
Step 7: Receive Your TranscriptOnce your grade has been processed, USD will issue an official transcript reflecting your earned credit. Transcripts are mailed to the address listed in your USD student account.
Join the Literacy Council of North America online course for teachers to explore evidence-based strategies for K–8 literacy instruction. Learn from leading experts, participate in engaging virtual sessions, and earn contact hours to enhance your professional development.
Audience: Classroom teachers, Literacy coaches and specialists, Building and district administrators, Title I teachers and coordinators, Interventionists, Teachers of Multilingual Learners, Curriculum directors, Language arts specialists, School librarians and media specialists, Reading Recovery professionals
Refund Policy: All Credit Validation enrollments are refundable, minus a $25 processing fee, if requested within 30 days of the enrollment date. No refunds will be issued after the 30-day period.
Enrollment Open Through: April 1, 2026 (11:59pm PT)
The National ESEA Conference offers educators in-depth learning on federal education programs that support disadvantaged students, featuring 100+ expert-led sessions. This course helps teachers apply insights from the conference to strengthen student success at the school, district, or state level.
Audience: Education professionals at the state, district, and local levels.
Location: Denver, CO & Online
Number of Units: 1.0 – 2.0 graduate level extension credit(s) in semester hours. Please select units at checkout.
Enrollment Open: July 3, 2025 – March 31, 2026 (11:59pm PT)
Join the SDCOE Ed Tech Team for engaging virtual training sessions designed to help TK–12 educators integrate technology into instruction. Learn practical digital strategies to boost student engagement, collaboration, and learning through flexible, after-school online sessions.
Enhance your AP instruction with this content-rich professional learning experience designed to strengthen academic rigor and effective teaching strategies. This online course for teachers and educators provides practical tools aligned to the AP Course and Exam framework to support all learners.
Audience: High School AP Teachers
Refund Policy: All Credit Validation enrollments are refundable, minus a $25 processing fee, if the refund is requested within 30 days of the enrollment date. Refunds will not be issued once a grade has been assigned or after the 30-day period has passed.
Enrollment Open Through: March 15, 2026 – August 15, 2026 (11:59pm PT)
The CALIE Certified Educator Program is a 12-week online course for teachers ready to lead with innovation and educational technology best practices. Participants gain the skills to drive systems change, foster digital equity, and transform teaching through applied leadership.
Leading Schoolwide SEL is CASEL’s comprehensive online course designed for educators and school teams ready to lead strategic SEL planning and implementation. Participants learn to assess their school’s SEL strengths, set measurable goals, and develop actionable plans using CASEL’s Guide to Schoolwide SEL.
Audience: PreK–12 educators, school principals, assistant principals, school administrators, school counselors, SEL leadership team members, SEL district leaders, SEL regional leaders, SEL specialists, SEL coaches, SEL coordinators, youth-serving organization professionals.
Refund Policy: All Credit Validation enrollments are refundable, less a $25 fee, if requested within 30 days of enrollment date. There will be no refunds for Credit Validation after the allotted 30 days.
Enrollment Open Through: May 1, 2026 (11:59pm PT)
Gain a deep understanding of Structured Literacy through the SoR and MREP courses, which equip teachers with research-based best practices for effective reading instruction. Learn to apply evidence-based strategies in phonics, fluency, vocabulary, comprehension, and writing across Kindergarten through 4th grade.
Audience: Elementary school teachers, reading specialists, educators primarily instructing students in grades Kindergarten through 2nd
Enrollment Open Through: December 31, 2026 (11:59pm PT)
This course helps educators understand brain development, learning processes, and the root causes of student struggles in large, small, or individualized settings. Participants will learn strategies to adapt the learning environment, support self-regulation, goal-setting, and cognitive development, while exploring the impact of brain integration on posture, movement, motivation, and thinking skills.
Audience: Teachers in public and private schools (general education, special education, specialists), administrators, psychologists, private practitioners (academic language therapists, tutors, speech and language pathologists), parents, and lifetime learners.
Enrollment Open Through: December 31, 2026 (11:59pm PST)
The AI Leadership Academy is an online course for teachers designed to help educators lead innovation through ethical and effective AI integration in schools. Participants will develop personalized AI strategies, apply advanced tools, and drive educational transformation within their classrooms and districts.
Audience: Classroom teachers, administrators, Special Education staff, curriculum directors, Teachers on special assignment (TOSAs), instructional coaches, other education professionals
Enrollment Open Through: December 22, 2026 (11:59pm PT)
Educators will continue to develop essential skills for creating engaging, student-centered classrooms, focusing on collaboration, comprehension, and building a strong classroom community. They will learn research-based strategies, including the Three-Read Technique, Jigsaw, and One-Pagers, to deepen critical thinking, foster peer engagement, and support diverse learners.
Audience: K-12 teachers
Enrollment Open: January 1, 2026 – June 15, 2026 (11:59pm PT)
Unlock the true structure of the English language and learn strategies to teach words effectively to both dyslexic and non-dyslexic students. Explore morphology, etymology, phonology, and syllable patterns while participating in interactive online discussions to deepen your understanding and instructional skills.
Build a foundational understanding of Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) and Indigenous ways of knowing in environmental education. This AEOE online course for teachers supports respectful, intentional integration of TEK alongside Western science in outdoor and environmental learning settings.
Audience: Outdoor educators who are actively teaching or designing learning experiences.
Enrollment Open Through: March 1, 2026 – December 30, 2026 (11:59pm PT)
Deepen your understanding of climate science, human impacts, and equitable solutions through a rigorous, evidence-based online course. This AEOE online course for teachers provides a strong scientific foundation to support confident engagement with climate education materials.
Audience: Environmental educators in any setting
Enrollment Open Through: July 1, 2026 – December 30, 2026 (11:59pm PT)
Explore the developing brain of young children in this SDCOE online course for teachers. Learn how brain development impacts learning and behavior while discovering strategies to support healthy growth and positive educator-child interactions.
Explore multiple domains of early childhood development in this SDCOE online course for teachers. Learn key developmental theories, observe children effectively, and apply your knowledge to support physical, cognitive, social, and emotional growth.
Audience: Currently credentialed Multiple Subject (Elementary) teachers seeking Early Childhood Education (ECE) units
Enrollment Open: February 15, 2026 – March 21, 2026 (11:59pm PT)
Learn developmentally appropriate practices in early childhood education in this SDCOE online course for teachers. Explore the California Preschool Learning Foundations and Curriculum Frameworks, plan lessons across content areas, and reflect on strategies to meet the needs of all learners.
Reflect on how your classroom environment communicates values and impacts student learning. This SDCOE online course for teachers helps educators design inclusive indoor and outdoor spaces that engage all learners and reflect children and families.
Audience: Currently credentialed Multiple Subject (Elementary) teachers seeking Early Childhood Education (ECE) units (SDCOE affiliation not required)
Enrollment Open: April 26, 2026 – May 27, 2026 (11:59pm PT)
Explore the vital role of play in early childhood education and its impact on children’s learning and development. This SDCOE online course for teachers helps educators intentionally plan and support play across all developmental domains throughout the school day.
Enrollment Open: May 31, 2026 – July 1, 2026 (11:59pm PT)
Discover how observation and assessment inform effective, developmentally appropriate teaching in early childhood education. This SDCOE online course for teachers explores formative and summative assessment tools to support individualized learning and instructional planning.
Learn how trauma impacts brain development and child learning in early childhood settings. This SDCOE online course for teachers provides practical strategies for cultivating a trauma-responsive, trauma-informed classroom.
Explore the importance of family and community engagement in supporting young children’s learning and development. This SDCOE online course for teachers provides practical strategies for building meaningful partnerships with diverse families.
Earn two units with this course from WestEd.
Audience: K-12 educators
Educators will gain foundational strategies to create dynamic, student-centered classrooms, focusing on relationship-building, inquiry, and critical thinking through active note-taking. They will learn to foster inclusive environments, implement Costa’s Levels of Thinking, and use inquiry-based practices to promote deeper understanding and engagement.
Enrollment Open: August 1, 2026 – January 15, 2027 (11:59pm PT)
This course provides educators with a comprehensive understanding of Deafblindness, including causes, cognitive and social impacts, and effective teaching and communication strategies. This online course for teachers equips educators with tactile, vestibular, and instructional techniques to support students who are deaf-blind.
Audience: K–12 educators across California (SDCOE affiliation not required), specifically teachers who hold a Preliminary or Clear Education Specialist Credential and are seeking to add an authorization to that credential.
Enrollment Open Through: February 2, 2026 – May 29, 2026 (11:59pm PST)
This Early Childhood Special Education course prepares educators to support young children with disabilities, including those with autism, through evidence-based interventions and inclusive practices. Participants will develop skills in assessment, IFSP/IEP planning, family collaboration, and culturally responsive instruction in early learning environments.
This Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) course equips educators to understand and support students with ASD through developmentally appropriate interventions and instructional strategies. Participants will gain knowledge of communication, social, sensory, and behavioral challenges, structured learning environments, and research-based best practices for inclusive classrooms.
Gain in-depth knowledge of orthopedic impairments and their impact on student development, learning, and access to instruction. This comprehensive 140-hour course addresses assessment, accommodations, collaboration, and evidence-based strategies aligned with the OI AA Standards.
Enrollment Open: February 2, 2026 – May 29, 2026 (11:59pm PST)
This Emotional Disturbance (ED) Added Authorization course equips educators with the knowledge to identify, assess, and support students with emotional disturbances. Learn evidence-based strategies for academic, social, and behavioral interventions, including collaboration with parents and agencies.
Enhance your expertise in Structured Literacy with this Learning at the Primary Pod online course for teachers. Gain practical, evidence-based strategies to address reading difficulties, support English Language Learners, and strengthen instruction across all Big Five areas of reading.
Audience: Elementary school teachers or reading specialists, primarily instructing students in grades Kindergarten through 5th
Participants will learn key terminology and techniques used in the Orton-Gillingham (O-G) approach, including V/A/TK strategies and the use of multisensory teaching for phoneme isolation. They will also explore the seven syllable types, syllable division, word patterns, and the use of real and nonsense words to strengthen reading and language skills.
USD’s Ahlers Center for International Business Marketing and Sales Program
This online course introduces educators to the Slingerland Screening Procedures (Forms A–D) for identifying students with specific language learning disabilities. Teachers and language educators will learn how to screen, interpret results, and support early intervention through structured, multisensory instruction.
Learn how to implement evidence-based assessment practices using the MARIO Framework in this self-paced professional development course for educators. Discover strategies for data collection, growth measurement, and fostering inclusive learning environments.
Audience: Special Educators, Support Teachers, Paraprofessionals, General Education Teachers, Advisory Teachers, Administrators
Master The MARIO Approach, an evidence-based intervention, by using strategic one-to-one learning conversations to develop learner autonomy. This self-study course provides practical research applications to model behaviors that drive tremendous personal growth and learner self-direction.
Audience: Special Educators, Support Teachers, Paraprofessionals, General Education Teachers, Advisory Teachers, and Administrators
Learn how to effectively advocate for students with dyslexia by understanding IDEA, IEPs, 504 Plans, appropriate services, accommodations, and dispute-resolution processes. This course prepares educators to guide families with confidence through assessments, evaluations, and the special education system.
This course provides an in-depth exploration of dyslexia, including its signs, symptoms, myths, research-based interventions, and effective accommodations for students and adults. Participants will engage in interactive discussions and simulations to deepen their understanding of current research and best practices in supporting individuals with dyslexia.
This course introduces educators to the Orton-Gillingham (O-G) approach, covering multisensory teaching, V/A/TK strategies, and English phonemes with clear isolation techniques. Participants will also learn terminology, keywords, syllable types, and word patterns, applying these concepts through practical examples.
Enhance your teaching skills with the Dyslexia Training Institute online course for teachers, focused on the Orton-Gillingham approach. Learn O-G terminology, V/A/TK strategies, multisensory teaching methods, phonemes, syllable types, and effective word pattern instruction.
This course introduces educators to multisensory teaching and learning through the Orton-Gillingham approach, including phonemes, syllable types, and foundational terminology. Participants will learn practical strategies to improve reading and spelling instruction using real and nonsense words, syllable division, and structured word patterns.
Reciprocal Coaching: The Framework in Action prepares instructional coaches and teacher-leaders to apply a 5-step coaching model through authentic, trust-centered collaboration. Participants engage in real coaching cycles focused on inquiry, co-teaching, reflection, and measurable instructional impact.
Explore how Universal Design for Learning (UDL) can transform environmental education to better support all learners. This AEOE online course for teachers helps environmental and outdoor educators design inclusive, accessible, and engaging learning experiences.
ADAC’s Catholic School Leadership Program equips PS–12 Catholic school leaders and aspiring leaders with strategies to strengthen Catholic identity, academic excellence, and operational effectiveness. Gain practical tools for leadership, governance, and community engagement to advance your school’s mission and long-term success.
Audience: Audience: Catholic school leaders and aspiring Catholic school leaders
Enrollment Open Through: July 31, 2026 (11:59pm PT)
This online course provides teachers and educators with a foundational understanding of applied behavior analysis (ABA) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in educational settings. Learn key principles, strategies, and person-centered approaches to support students with autism while building skills for advanced ABA training.
Audience: Behavior Therapist, Behavior Supervisor, Behavior Analyst, Qualified Autism Services Practitioner, Qualified Autism Services Supervisor, Master Teacher, Teacher Aide, Director of ABA Services, Supervisor of ABA Services.
Enrollment Open Through: June 30, 2026 (11:59pm PT)
Enhance your teaching expertise with the Dyslexia Training Institute’s online course for educators. Learn evidence-based strategies to improve reading comprehension, fluency, and vocabulary development through interactive discussions and instructor-led simulations.
This online course for teachers and educators provides a comprehensive introduction to applied behavior analysis (ABA) and fulfills initial coursework requirements for QASP, QBA, and IBA certifications. Participants will build a strong foundation in ABA principles and learn how to apply evidence-based behavioral strategies across educational, clinical, and residential settings.
Enrollment Open Through: July 1, 2026 (11:59pm PT)
Learn how to assess and analyze problem behavior using evidence-based behavior assessment tools, including ABC analysis, scatter plots, interviews, and functional analyses. This course supports QASP, QBA, and IBA certification pathways and equips participants with skills to interpret data and inform effective behavioral interventions.
Develop advanced skills in data collection, measurement, and experimental design to evaluate the effectiveness of behavioral interventions. This course supports QBA and IBA certification pathways and prepares participants to analyze data, compare research designs, and make informed, evidence-based decisions.
Learn how to design and implement effective, research-based behavior change interventions grounded in the principles of behavior analysis. This course emphasizes function-based, least restrictive strategies that promote positive behavior, meaningful outcomes, and strong interpersonal relationships.
Explore the legal, ethical, and professional responsibilities of behavior analysts while developing effective supervision and training practices. This course supports QASP, QBA, and IBA certification requirements and emphasizes ethical decision-making, staff performance, and competency-based supervision.
Build a strong understanding of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), including diagnosis, characteristics, and evidence-based intervention strategies. This course supports QASP, QBA, and IBA certification pathways and prepares participants to apply diagnostic knowledge to goal development and instructional planning.
Guide students through authentic historical research by exploring the lives of underserved Korean War veterans through the Veterans Legacy Project. This course helps teachers build students’ historical thinking, primary source research, and writing skills through live expert-led webinars and National History Day resources.
Earn graduate credit through the Dyslexia Training Institute’s supervised practicum, where educators apply Orton-Gillingham methods with direct mentoring and hands-on teaching experience. This online course supports teachers in building the skills needed to effectively teach students with dyslexia.
The curriculum varies by course and partner organization but is united by a shared focus on professional growth and instructional excellence. Educators engage with high-quality online learning experiences that may include interactive modules, readings, projects, and collaborative discussions.
These courses are designed to build knowledge, strengthen skills, and promote the application of best practices in real educational contexts, giving educators flexible opportunities to advance their professional practice.
Participants in the Online Credit Validation Courses can expect the following benefits:
USD’s Division of Professional and Continuing Education is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges – Senior College and University Commission (WASC). Additionally, University of San Diego is ranked among the Top 100 U.S. colleges and universities by U.S. News and World Report.
The Professional and Continuing Education program nurtures key partnerships on the local, national, and international level. The goal is to better serve working professionals who seek to enhance or build their careers and help achieve their highest value and potential. Contact us today to learn more.
High-quality, career-building courses to choose from
In-depth, innovative, and relevant topics
Career advancing certificates
Yes. Participants will receive an official transcript from USD’s Division of Professional & Continuing Education, mailed to the address on file in their USD student account.
For enrollment or technical support, contact our Enrollment and Student Services team at [email protected]. For course-specific questions, reach out to the instructor or program contact listed on the course page.
$79 per unit (transcript included). Tuition is based on the number of units assigned to the course. Fees are listed on the individual course pages.
This depends on the course. Some are fully self-paced, while others may include scheduled online sessions, peer collaboration, or assignment deadlines. Details are provided on each course page.
Each course page provides registration details and instructions. You’ll select your course, complete enrollment, and receive confirmation via email.
In most districts, yes, many educators use these courses to meet continuing education requirements or move up on the salary schedule. We recommend confirming with your district or state licensing agency before enrolling.
K–12 teachers, instructional leaders, administrators, and education professionals seeking professional growth, continuing education, or pay scale advancement.
These are professional development courses created by partner organizations and offered online through USD’s Division of Professional & Continuing Education. They allow educators to expand their knowledge and skills while earning graduate-level extension credit.
One common denominator among the most successful organizations is that they prioritize educational and professional development opportunities for their members, and one way to accomplish this is to support training programs and courses that will help them excel in their jobs and careers.
Such professional growth opportunities can occur through established third-party programs or, in some cases, organizations will create their own customized, in-house training programs to boost specific knowledge and skill sets. Many organizations also find it beneficial to partner with an academic institution or an industry advocacy organization to be able to offer official credit to successful participants.
1. Submit New Course or New Section Form(s) 2. Confirmation of form(s) receipt 3. Review / Modify enrollment page(s) from Credit Validation Coordinator 4. Upon course completion, request grade roster and return grades 5. Credit Validator enters grades 6. Complimentary transcripts are emailed to students
Some organizations may use the term “course accreditation” to mean providing accreditation (or “credit validation”) services for the types of training programs described above. Additionally, organizations seeking such services may use one or both terms interchangeably (“credit validation” and/or “course accreditation”) to search for an education partner/provider.
This can cause confusion because the term “accreditation” more commonly refers to the system of third-party quality control long used to ensure that institutions of higher education satisfy certain standards (for example, the University of San Diego is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges).
Sponsoring businesses and organizations that partner with USD for credit validation receive:
-Added value to your program, by offering credit options -Competitive and affordable fees -Flexibility to tailor and update your courses as required -Personalized white-glove service from your USD program coordinator -Support from a dedicated enrollment and student services team -Affiliation with an accredited, nationally recognized university -Over 25 years of credit validation expertise -In addition to earning credit while developing new knowledge and skills, each successful participant receives a free printed transcript from USD.
Organizations that partner with USD in these offerings include private companies, nonprofits, public agencies such as school districts or county education offices, and professional organizations. Some of the organizations that partner with USD for credit validation services include:
AVID Path to Schoolwide and AVID ElevateXP National Geographic Society Montessori Institute of San Diego Dyslexia Training Institute National Council of Teachers of English San Diego Zoo Mathematics Vision Project Great Books Foundation Museum of Tolerance
12.5 hours are required per 1.0 unit.
$79 per 1 unit.
Email [email protected]. Fill out the Course Approval Request form and the Instructor Approval Request form and return to your person of contact at USD.
Credit validation units can be classroom, online, or a combination of both. Assignments and readings can count towards the time requirement. Credit can also be earned for attending a conference.
DoDEA representative completes their own regional form and gets it approved by the school principal, area supervisor, subject specialist, or area superintendent. Then the form is emailed to [email protected] for approval.
15.0 hours are required per 1.0 unit.
Graduate Level Extension Credit.
It is the responsibility of the participant to confirm with their school district/organization if our units will be accepted before registering for credit.
Participants typically have 10 days from the start date of the course to register unless otherwise specified by the DoDEA POC. Registration can open any time before the course actually begins but registration typically closes 10 days after the start date (DoDEA policy).
Participants requesting an INC have 60 days from the end date of the course to complete it. If they do not complete the course within that time frame, they will be issued an NG. If the DoDEA POC would like more time for the student, this is acceptable.
No, they are not. They are instructors on a volunteer basis and are not USD PCE staff.
No, they do not. They usually use their own learning system such as Schoology. Since DoDEA courses are not USD developed courses, they do not have the option of using Canvas.