Incorporate neuroplasticity principles into daily classroom practices. This course will provide basic explanations of neuroplasticity and its significant role in academic growth. Participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of how the brain's capacity to reorganize and form new connections can enhance learning and support student development. This course offers research-based strategies for educators to apply brain science principles in the classroom, fostering an environment that promotes resilience, growth mindset, and academic achievement. Ideal for those in education seeking to integrate advanced cognitive research into their instructional practices. Implementing these practices into a learning environment has shown to be successful in a range of K-12 classrooms including under-performing, high ELL population and low socioeconomic populations.
Final submission for all sections is due on or before April 19, 2026. Transcripts will be issued no sooner than 7 days AFTER April 19, 2026.
Number or Units: 3.0 graduate level extension credit(s) in semester hours
Who Should Attend: This course is designed to benefit a wide range of professionals involved in the education system including K-12 educators, administrators, counselors and support staff in the field of education.
Course Dates: This course starts on Monday, January 26, 2026 and should be completed on or before Sunday, April 19, 2026
Course Format: Online Self-Paced, within given dates*.
*Online Self-Paced courses are a perfect blend of accessibility, convenience and flexibility for you to control your learning pace. Your instructor will provide feedback via written responses on your submissions and final project. Grades are based on assignments and completed projects. You have until Sunday, April 19, 2026 or sooner to complete the course. Please pace yourself to allow for instructor responses. Course completion date will reflect April 19, 2026 on the transcript for all participants that successfully meet the completed course work deadline.
Technical Requirements
Instructors: Various experienced and qualified K-12 educators. See individual course sections
Once you have enrolled in your course, log in to your account to access the course Welcome Letter, which includes directions on how to access the Online Orientation and your online course.
Enrollment and Course Dates: Enrollment is open now through March 16, 2026, or until section is full, whichever happens first. Course opens for student participation starting on January 26, 2026. Deadline to complete the course is April 19, 2026. Course completion date will reflect April 19, 2026 on the transcript for all participants that successfully meet the completed course work and due date.
Course Format: Online Self-Paced (within given dates)
Refund Policy: To receive a refund* (minus processing fee), students registered prior to the first day of the course, which is January 26, 2026 must drop the course through your student portal at pce.sandiego.edu before midnight on the third day of the course (January 28, 2026). Students enrolling between January 26 – March 16, 2026, who wish to receive a refund (minus processing fee), must drop the course through your student portal at pce.sandiego.edu before midnight on the third day following your enrollment.
*All refunds of the course tuition will be returned less a processing fee of $50.00. No refunds will be issued after applicable deadline for any reason.
Professional development courses offered by the University of San Diego’s Division of Professional & Continuing Education are taught by faculty that possess a depth and breadth of academic and real-world professional experience.
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
Courses offer a convenient, yet rigorous style of learning that allows you to structure your education to suit your schedule while keeping you on pace toward achieving your educational.
Our online self-paced courses are designed to provide flexibility and autonomy for learners. Unlike traditional classroom methods, which require attendance at scheduled times, self-paced courses allow you to progress through the material at your own speed within a six-month period from the time of enrollment. Your instructor will provide feedback via written responses on your assignments and exams. Grades are based on completed projects, assignments and exams.
Key differences from traditional classroom methods:
Structure of Online Self-Paced Courses:
The content is divided into learning modules, each covering one or more topics. Within each module, you can expect the following components:
Typically, there is a final project, paper, or exam due in the last module that synthesizes all the topics covered throughout the course. The design of the learning modules follows a consistent rhythm to help you manage your time effectively. Grades will be available within two weeks of final submission, transcripts will be automatically mailed out following grades being posted and approved. Please allow 3-4 weeks from when final grades are posted to receive a transcript.
With hundreds of courses across a range of education-related topics, there’s a strong chance we have the ideal class for you!
Small class sizes with real-world educators are an important part of the USD experience.
Our educator courses offer flexible course formats and class times to help you balance your work, USD studies, and family life.
Browse over 500+ educator courses and numerous certificates to enhance your curriculum and earn credit toward salary advancement.