This certificate is designed to prepare students with a set of courses focused on assessment and instruction of young children with disabilities. Students completing this certificate will acquire the skills and techniques for assessing the communication, social, and cognitive skills of young children and providing appropriate supports to children and families. The certificate of undergraduate study in young children with disabilities studies is open to all students admitted to Northern Illinois University. All course requirements for this certificate must be completed at NIU within three calendar years. Students who want to pursue this certificate must receive approval and advisement from advisers in the Department of Special and Early Education. All course requirements for this certificate must be completed at NIU. Teacher candidates who want to earn the Early Childhood Special Education approval should contact their adviser for further information.