Skip to main
Close Search

Graduate Certificate in Developmental Disabilities

Gain important skills to provide services and supports for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families. Our online program prepares students from a variety of disciplines using an interdisciplinary and lifespan approach. Students explore topical areas such as aspects of intellectual and developmental disabilities, supported decision-making, leadership, mentorship, advocacy, research, systems change, policy and addressing inequities across life domains.

Students who have completed the Graduate Certificate have become leaders in early childhood, education, employment, health, gerontology, assistive technology, evaluation, research and policy.

Apply now

At a Glance

Fall 2025

Application Due Date:
07/25/2025
Start Date:
08/25/2025

Spring 2025

Application Due Date:
12/13/2024
Start Date:
01/13/2025

Summer 2025

Application Due Date:
04/19/2025
Start Date:
05/19/2025

Credits and Tuition Cost (2024-2025)

Credits Required: 10 - 11
Cost Per Credit: $753.00

Format

Fully Online

Request Information

Learn more about the Developmental Disabilities online program.
Fill out this form to be sent information specific to your program of interest, including deadlines, tuition, application requirements and more!




By checking "Reach Out by Text" you consent to receive information by text message from the University of Kentucky. Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy













By submitting this form, you are agreeing to receive recurring messages from The University of Kentucky related to your request for information. Message and Data rates may apply. Carriers are not liable for delayed or undelivered messages. You also confirm that you have the authority to consent to receive text messages at the number you provided. Text help for help & stop to unsubscribe.


Graduate Certificate in Developmental Disabilities overview

Program format
Format
Fully Online
Total credits
Total Credits
10 - 11
Degree awarded
Degree Awarded

What You'll Learn

Students will learn from individuals with disabilities, family members, and professionals who are active practitioners in their respective fields. 

Focus areas

  • Specialized Healthcare Services & Financing
  • Inclusive Education
  • Behavioral Supports
  • Employment Options for those with Disabilities
  • Advocacy
  • Legislation
  • Assistive Technology
  • Community Living
  • Aging with a Disability
  • Organizational Development and Theory
  • Group Facilitation
  • Research and Proposal Development

Course Examples

  • HDI 600 Interdisciplinary Approaches
  • HDI 602 Interdisciplinary Supports
  • HDI 603 Practicum
  • HDI 604 Interdisciplinary Leadership Seminar
  • Elective class
student image

How to Apply

Application Requirements

Standard graduate application requirements apply.

  • Scholarly writing sample
  • A 500-word personal statement indicating why you want to attain this certificate
  • Current resume/vita
  • If not currently attending UK: two letters of recommendation
  • Completed Graduate Certificate Application: You can download the certificate application here.

Admissions Criteria

Program Contact

Walt Bower
Program Director

Deadlines

Fall 2025

Application Due Date:
07/25/2025
Start Date:
08/25/2025

Spring 2025

Application Due Date:
12/13/2024
Start Date:
01/13/2025

Summer 2025

Application Due Date:
04/19/2025
Start Date:
05/19/2025

Distance Learning

Licensure & Authorization

Where you live matters when completing distance education activities. If you will live outside of Kentucky while completing your program, please check the Distance Learning Authorization & Licensure page to confirm that the program can be offered in your state or country, and if relevant, that it meets professional licensure requirements in your state. Please note: Admission and enrollment in a fully-online program can NOT lead to the issuance of a J-1 or F-1 student visa. 

AUTHORIZATION & LICENSURE INFO
NC-SARA logo
University of Kentucky has been approved to participate in State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements.

Student Support

Once you become a student, you will have access to a wide variety of academic support services to maximize your success. These services are available completely online to meet the needs of our online students.

Why UK Online

One tuition rate

Icon
Pay the same online tuition rate, no matter where you live.

Flexible schedule

Icon
Fit learning into your busy schedule with no prescribed class times.

Be Supported

Icon
Access supporting services and success coaches to help you succeed.

Media

Follow On Social Facebook Icon YouTube Icon LinkedIn Icon Instagram Icon Network Icon
Find the Degree that Fits Explore Now