Special Education is an accelerated blended/online program for individuals who want to teach children with special needs in grades K-12 who come from culturally and/or linguistically diverse backgrounds.

This program is designed for non-traditional second career individuals who do not have a teaching license and are seeking initial licensure as an Intervention Specialist. Graduates of this program will have the skills and knowledge to work with children in grades K-12 who come from culturally and/or linguistically diverse backgrounds and are in need of special education services.

Program Requirements

Hours: 47

Professional Core - 15 hours

EDU 500 Statistics and Research (3)
EDU 501 Educational Psychology (3)
EDU 604 Integrative Research Project (3)
SED 515 Human Exceptionalities Across the Lifespan (3)
SED 521 Assessment & Communication Develop for Special Education (3)

Concentration Courses - 32 hours

EDU 504 Proactive Classroom Leadership (3)
EDU 631 Promoting Student Development P-12 and The Effects of Trauma (3)
EDU 644 Graduate Student Teaching (6)
RDG 515 Foundations of Effective Reading Instruction (3)
RDG 530 Phonics/Linguistics (3)
RDG 531 Comprehension Instruction (3)
RDG 535 Assessment and Intervention of Reading (3)
SED 611 Curriculum & Methods for Special Education (3)
SPR 552 Math Curriculum and Methods (3)

Plus choose two of the following:

SED 632 Special Education Practicum in Early Childhood Environments (1)
SED 633 Special Education Practicum in Middle School Environments (1)
SED 634 Special Education Practicum in Secondary Environments (1)

Program Outcomes

  • Content knowledge - The candidate articulates accurate subject matter and applies that knowledge in planning and presenting lessons aligned with content standards.
  • Learner characteristics - The candidate incorporates knowledge of how students learn and how diverse experiences affect learning when planning and presenting lessons aligned with content standards.
  • Instructional strategies - The candidate applies a variety of scientifically-based, data-driven instructional strategies based on learning goals, assesses student's progress toward these goals, and differentiates instruction based on student needs and assessment results.
  • Learning environment - The candidate creates and manages a learning environment that encourages active, engaged learning and respect for others.
  • Professional responsibilities - The candidate engages in reflective practice, promotes collaboration among peers, families and communities,  and takes on opportunities for professional development