Special education

Our special education program was ranked seventh in the nation (March 2008) by U.S. News and World Report. If you are contemplating entering this field of study at the University, that means you have the opportunity to work with faculty internationally known for their research and work in assessment of and instruction for individuals with special learning needs. Expertise is available in the areas of learning disabilities, emotional and behavioral disabilities, developmental disabilities, and deaf/hard of hearing. It also means extensive, high-quality opportunities to participate in leadership and problem-solving approaches that are grounded in research and applied in a variety of educational, cultural, and recreational settings with a primary focus on special needs infants, children, and adults and their families. Students participate with faculty in hands-on experiences in classroom, community, and home settings.

The college also encompasses many additional resources for students in this field of study such as the Institute on Community Integration and the Center for Early Education and Development, both of which are actively involved in research, policy development, and community outreach related to children, youth, and adults with disabilities. Those students who complete programs in the special education field will find themselves in very high demand, especially in teaching.

Undergraduate programs

Undergraduates interested in special education should consider the applied psychology in educational and community settings (APECS) minor or the early childhood foundations undergraduate major.

M.Ed./initial licensure in early childhood and early childhood special education

Our M.Ed./initial licensure program is for individuals seeking licensure to teach in preK-12 settings.

Program overview

Content area preadmission requirements

Additional licensure in special education is available in areas that include deaf/hard of hearing, developmental disabilities, early childhood/early childhood special education, emotional/behavioral disorders, and learning disabilities. The option is available to candidates who already hold special education licensure in one or more areas.

Certificate in applied behavior analysis

This 12-credit program provides specialized training in methods of behavioral assessment, intervention, and treatment evaluation. Admission is open to graduate and undergraduate students.

Program details

Certificate in autism spectrum disorders

This 14-credit program offers specialized training in methods of assessment, intervention, and treatment evaluation. Admission is open to graduate and undergraduate students.

Program details

Master of education (M.Ed.) degree in special education

Our M.Ed. program is for individuals seeking additional licensure or professional development in special education.

Program overview

Master of arts (M.A.) degree in educational psychology—special education

Offered through the Graduate School, our  M.A. program emphasizes research and theory in the context of classroom application. It generally culminates in a research project and final oral exam. The application procedures and tuition fees correspond to those of the Graduate School.

Program overview

Doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.) degree in educational psychology—special education

Our Ph.D. degree is for students interested in focusing on a particular subject field and includes original research that makes a significant contribution to knowledge in that field. Students pursuing this degree are admitted through the Graduate School.

Program overview