Already a Naset Member?

Education Professional

Advocacy Matters Now More Than Ever

In today’s complex and often overwhelming educational landscape, too many children with disabilities fall through the cracks. The promise of a free appropriate public education (FAPE) is often compromised by political, financial, and bureaucratic pressures.

Special education advocates play a critical role in restoring that promise. They ensure that families understand their rights, secure the services their children need, and hold schools accountable under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA 2004).

But here's the challenge...

There are no federal or state regulations governing who can be an advocate.

That’s why the National Association of Special Education Teachers (NASET) and the American Academy of Special Education Professionals (AASEP) created the Board Certification for Advocacy in Special Education (BCASE)—a rigorous, credentialed program that empowers professionals and parents alike to advocate with clarity, authority, and special education expertise.

Education Professional

Enter the Board Certification for Advocacy in Special Education

Gain Advanced Skills and Knowledge

Through 58 targeted units across 7 comprehensive modules, you’ll study legal foundations, instructional strategies, behavior support, transition planning, and more.

Join a Community of Elite Professionals

This certification places you among a nationally recognized group of specialists who meet rigorous professional standards.

Strengthen Your Professional Identity

BCSE enhances your credibility, visibility, and respect among parents, colleagues, and employers.

Demonstrate Dedicationand Expertise

Your certification signifies your commitment to excellence and sets you apart in the field of special education.

Gain a Competitive Career Edge

The BCSE designation enhances your resume, increases marketability, and can open new professional doors.

Education Professional

Is this Certification for me?

  • Are you are a former educator or school administrator?
  • Are you a parent of a child or children with special needs?
  • Are you a social worker, therapist, or educational consultant?
  • Are you passionate about educational equity?

Then this certification is for YOU!

Whether you're new to advocacy or looking to formalize your skills, this program provides everything you need to support families and effect systemic change.

Join Today

What Does a Special Education Advocate Actually Do?

Our Certified Advocates:

  • Guide parents through IEP and 504 processes
  • Recommend appropriate services, placements, or evaluations
  • Help families interpret complex documentation
  • Mediate disputes between parents and school districts
  • Ensure compliance with federal education laws
Join Today
Education Professional
Skip to product information
1 of 1

NASET

Board Certification for Advocacy in Special Education (BCASE)

Board Certification for Advocacy in Special Education (BCASE)

Regular price $1,110.00 USD
Regular price Sale price $1,110.00 USD
Sale Sold out
Shipping calculated at checkout.

Select Your Certificate

View full details

Frequently Asked Questions

The primary requirement is a dedication to special education. Our courses are practical, comprehensive, and designed for educators at every stage of their career. There are no specific restrictions on enrollment. During registration, we ask for your highest degree attained and whether you've had any issues with professional licensing. Questions? Email us at contactus@naset.org or call (800) 754-4421.

NASET is an approved professional development provider in Pennsylvania (Act 48) and Texas (TEA-CPE), and we are actively adding new state approvals. Check your state's specifics here: https://learn.naset.com/state-approvals. We always recommend confirming continuing education requirements with your school or district to ensure our credits meet your needs.

Yes! NASET members receive 15% off all certifications and courses. Log in to the member portal to access your discount (hyperlink this link:https://naset.mykajabi.com/products/communities/v2/nasetcommunity/resource/1bf24ee1-60d0-4e02-82b7-0c053eb67725). Not a member yet? Join for just $75/year today: https://shop.naset.com/products/naset-yearly-membership

Most members complete their certification in 1 to 3 months, depending on their pace. You have up to 2 years to finish, and extensions are granted on a case-by-case basis.

Each module ends with a 70 to 100 question exam requiring an 80% passing score. The exams are based directly on the module content, so paying attention and taking notes will set you up for success.

Yes! You receive a digital certificate after completing each module, showing the module name, credit hours, and your name. Once you finish all modules in your certification, a hardcopy certificate is mailed to your home address within 2 to 3 weeks.

Yes! If you prefer an alternative to Shopify's payment options, we offer a 3 month payment plan on all certifications. Email us at contactus@naset.org or call (800) 754-4421 to set one up or to discuss which option works best for you.

We're here for you! Reach us anytime at contactus@naset.org or (800) 754-4421.

How BCASE Stands Apart

Most advocate training programs lack oversight or consistent standards. BCASE is different.

Developed by nationally respected institutions—NASET and AASEP—this board certification goes far beyond a weekend workshop. It’s a structured, comprehensive program built to develop true competence and credibility in the field.