STEM Certification
Empower your educators to inspire learners in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Discover a holistic STEM certification model for early learning and K–12 students.
Recognizing innovation
As the leader in quality education standards and third-party evaluation, our Cognia STEM Certification program recognizes schools, systems, and programs that demonstrate a strong and effective STEM focus. Over 400 institutions in 35 states and across 15 countries rely on Cognia to assess and validate the quality, rigor, and substance of STEM education programs.
STEM certification from Cognia empowers your early learning, K–12, and postsecondary institutions to:
- Convey to parents and staff your commitment to high-quality STEM education
- Build awareness in your community and increase expectations for STEM education
- Encourage enrollment with a unique differentiator
Start your STEM certification journey
STEM certification is available to Cognia accredited institutions and those interested in accreditation.
Throughout this improvement journey, you’ll enjoy support from our team of experienced educators. Evaluators, including specialists in the STEM disciplines, will guide the certification process as they look for hallmarks of quality as described in the Cognia STEM Certification standards. These standards, which Cognia identified through robust research and extensive observations, focus on characteristics like problem-based experiential learning and the integration of STEM thinking into a broad range of activities and learning opportunities.
Unlock the power of STEM
“STEM is a recipe for student success, not just an ingredient.” Dr. Dil Uswatte, Rocky Ridge Elementary (AL)
Be inspired by success stories from Cognia schools and systems
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between accreditation and STEM certification?
The Cognia Accreditation process evaluates an institution’s overall ability to meet the needs of learners. Cognia STEM Certification evaluates whether and how a school or program has built a STEM learning ecosystem that embodies the practices and characteristics of a quality, relevant, and age-appropriate STEM education.
Can my institution earn Cognia Accreditation and Cognia STEM Certification at the same time?
Cognia Accreditation is a prerequisite for Cognia STEM Certification. New members seeking certification may earn it alongside accreditation, with a simultaneous review. The institution will be due for reaccreditation and recertification at least every six years.
Institutions already accredited by Cognia may seek initial STEM certification outside of the accreditation term by hosting an “off cycle” certification review. Once initially certified, the STEM certification and accreditation terms will align.
Can my school receive Cognia STEM Certification if we are accredited by another provider?
If your institution is accredited by another U.S. regional accreditor, you may request a transfer of your current accreditation to Cognia and then seek STEM Certification. As part of the Cognia global network, you’ll receive unsurpassed resources, including observation tools, surveys, and access to our online professional learning platform.