Admission Requirements


In order to be considered for the CTSCCN program, you must hold a four-year baccalaureate degree from a recognized university (or equivalent) from a recognized academic institution.

As part of your application, you will be required to provide:

  1. Transcript(s) of your post-secondary coursework
  2. A Letter of Intent outlining your reasons for pursuing a certificate in Teaching Students with Complex Communication Needs (CTSCCN). In your letter, please indicate how your current work would benefit from developing skills that are part of the CTSCCN and/or how you may be able to enter or alter your career because of receiving the certificate.

International students may apply, but due to the part-time nature and blended delivery format of this program, admission into this program may not qualify the student under the Canadian Study Permit and/or Post Graduation Work Permit programs. For more information, visit University of Alberta International's page on Immigration.

International students must demonstrate English language proficiency through one of the following:

  • TOEFL minimum score of 580 (paper-based), (237 computer-based) or a total score of 93 with a score of at least 24 on speaking and writing and 21 on reading and listening (Internet-based)
  • IELTS Academic minimum overall score of 6.5 with a minimum score of 6.5 on each band
  • PTE Academic minimum overall score of 63
  • CAEL minimum overall 70 with at least 60 on each subtest
How will a break in my studies affect my program?
You must be enrolled in one course in your first term after admission, and maintain an active program status by taking at least one course within each academic year (September-August). If you intend to interrupt your program for any reason, contact the CTSCCN Graduate Administrator immediately at tsccninf@ualberta.ca. We will work with you to ensure that your registration remains active.
What grading system does the program use?
The program uses the University of Alberta's 4-point scale grading system. For more information about the University of Alberta grading system, see the grading system at the Office of the Registrar.
What if I don't quite meet all of the requirements?
Please contact the CTSCCN Graduate Administrator at tsccninf@ualberta.ca to discuss your options.