By pursuing one of the 35 Best Special Education Majors, you’ll gain the skills necessary to develop unique learning strategies and plans for students with physical, mental, and emotional disabilities.
Special education teachers are just that—incredibly special in the lives of their students. While most teachers report that they believe their jobs are highly rewarding, as a special education teacher, you’ll be able to positively impact your students in a truly meaningful way.
Of course, to work as a special education educator, you’ll need to have certain characteristics and specialized skills. Only a degree in special education can prepare you for such a challenging but fulfilling line of work of teaching students with special needs.
And is it ever worth it! Not only is special education a rewarding line of work on a personal level, but it can be quite lucrative, too. In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that job opportunities in this field are expected to grow by 4% (as fast as the national average) by 2031.
Aspiring special education teachers–you won’t want to miss this ranking!
What Is a Special Education Major?
A special education major prepares you to work in a school environment, typically teaching lessons and developing educational plans for students with disabilities. Special education teachers may work as kindergarten teachers, middle school teachers, or high school teachers.
Because of this range, the best bachelor’s in special education programs provide you with skills in:
- Lesson planning
- Behavior management
- Teaching students with special needs
- Writing documents like IEPs (individualized educational plans)
Through a special education major, you will also take classes that will teach you how to implement IEPs and work with other stakeholders, like parents, principals, and other teachers.
Most special education college majors take around four years to complete, but you may be able to complete your courses in less time (or take longer, if you so choose) if you work at an accelerated pace. You’ll be trained in the tools and technologies necessary to become a teacher of special education as well as assistive technology (like Braille writers) for students with physical disabilities.
Before you graduate and enter the workforce, you will also need to complete a student teaching program and pass a background check as well.
What Are the Best Special Education Majors?
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Western Governors University
Established only in 1997, Western Governors University was established by a group of 19 U.S. governors. These governors founded the school out of a desire to expand education offerings to students all over the country. As a result, Western Governors University uses a unique online competency-based learning model, allowing students to earn degrees based on what they know and can do—rather than how many credits they’ve paid for.
The special education major at Western Governors University exists as a dual degree program that will enable you to earn both an elementary and special education certification. You’ll be prepared to work with students with a variety of disabilities and learning needs as you’ll be provided with the skills you need to connect with diverse learners.
You’ll be able to complete a bulk of your special education curriculum online, but you’ll also participate in demonstration teaching opportunities to give you hands-on experience in the classroom. Through WGU’s special education major, you’ll take eight professional core courses and you can transfer in 28 or more credits from another school you’ve attended.
Tuition for this special education program is incredibly affordable. It’s charged per term rather than per credit so you can take more classes per term and graduate faster. For each six-month term, you’ll pay just $3,726! Most special education students graduate in less than four years, too!
University of Georgia
As a space-, sun-, land-, and sea-grant university, the University of Georgia truly offers it all. It was founded in 1785 and is one of the oldest public universities in the entire country. Its designation as a research university means it is ranked as one of the best schools for students interested in research.
The Bachelor of Science in special education major at the University of Georgia is a great option for aspiring special education teachers. It is offered exclusively online by the Mary Frances Early College of Education. A two-year special education degree, it’s perfect for individuals who wish to receive a teaching certification in special education. It has a unique “Double Dawgs” pathway in which you can earn an accelerated master’s degree, too.
Ranked tenth-best in the country by U.S. News & World Report, this special education bachelor’s degree features tuition that starts at just $4,682 per semester (based on a 15-credit semester). Scholarships and other financial aid are also available.
To apply, you must have a minimum GPA of 2.8 and have completed at least 60 transferable college credit hours. You will also need a passing score on the GACE Program Admissions Assessment.
University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
The University of Minnesota-Twin Cities is ranked as one of the country’s top research universities by the Center for Measuring University Performance. A Public Ivy, the school is highly respected in regard to its research discoveries, innovation, and academic quality.
The special education major at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities will prepare you to become an expert in meeting students’ needs. You’ll learn how to work with students who have mild to moderate disabilities such as:
- Learning disabilities
- Emotional and behavioral disorders
- Autism spectrum disorders
You’ll take classes in subjects like academic and behavior interventions and educational and child psychology, learning how you can use research-based practices to find what works for your unique group of students. Also through this special education major, you will also gain experience working with students with disabilities by completing elementary and secondary practicum placement.
There’s even the opportunity to enhance your special education degree by adding licenses in early childhood special education and deaf and hard of hearing education. You can also use this program as the first step toward earning a Master of Education degree.
Ohio State University-Main Campus
One of the largest American universities, Ohio State University was originally an agricultural and mechanical school before it developed into a comprehensive university. With more than 1000 student organizations and campuses in other cities like Marion, Newark, Wooster, and more, this school has plenty to offer potential students.
Ohio State is one of the best schools for special education. The Bachelor of Science in special education major at Ohio State University is a competitive program that will prepare you for eventual teacher licensure. Through Ohio State’s special education major, you will be able to choose from three intervention specialist disciplines:
- Early childhood intervention specialist
- Mild to moderate intervention specialist
- Moderate to intensive intervention specialist
This program fully prepares future special education teachers. Your courses will be taught by faculty who approach teaching from a behavior analytic perspective. You’ll learn how to create and evaluate the effectiveness of lesson plans based on evidence-based practices and intensive student monitoring.
A total of 120 credit hours are required, with classes starting in the spring semester. You must have a GPA of 3.0 in order to apply.
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Often referred to simply as Madison, the University of Wisconsin-Madison was founded in 1848, at the same time as when the state of Wisconsin earned statehood. As the first public university in the state as well as the oldest and largest, the school has 20 different colleges and schools for you to choose from.
The Bachelor of Science degree with a major in Special Education at the University of Wisconsin-Madison will enable you to apply for a Wisconsin cross-categorical Special Education license at the middle childhood through adolescence level. This certificate will allow you to work with students aged 6-21.
You’ll take classes that cover topics such as:
- Assessing learning needs
- Creating individualized education programs
- Using assistive technology
Through Madison’s special education major, you’ll take a four-semester sequence of classes, practicum experiences, and student teaching experiences, too. The program has a profound emphasis on working with students across disability categories, including those with emotional and behavioral disorders and learning disabilities.
Purdue University-Main Campus
With more than 200 majors for undergraduates alone, it might be daunting to choose from the many high-ranking bachelor’s degrees at Purdue University. This school, located in West Lafayette, IN, offers plenty of resources for aspiring special education teachers.
Purdue University offers a Bachelor of Arts in special education and elementary education that uniquely allows you to obtain dual licensure. This special education major requires students to complete up to 147 total credits with core classes including:
- Media for Children
- Educational Policies and Law
- Assistive Technology
- Collaboration and Transition Practices for Individuals with Disabilities
You’ll also complete a required reading concentration as part of your coursework, too.
This special education program is offered by the college of education, a department at Purdue that offers dozens of undergraduate and graduate teacher education programs both on-campus and online.
As a student here, you’ll have access to a variety of resources, including:
- The Ackerman Center for Democratic Citizenship
- The Center for Advancing and Teaching Learning of STEM
- The Gifted Education Research and Resource Institute
As a result, you’ll graduate with the hands-on experience you need to make a difference in the lives of your students.
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
A public land-grant university, the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign is located in the twin cities of Champaign and Urbana. Here, you’ll find dozens of majors to choose from, but one of the most popular is the Bachelor of Science with a major in special education that prepares future special education teachers for successful careers.
In this special education program, you’ll take classes like:
- School and Community Experiences
- Development of Spoken Language
- Educational Psychology
After graduating, you’ll be known as a learning and behavior specialist and have the credentials necessary to teach children from kindergarten to age 21 with any kind of disability.
To apply for this special education program, you’ll need to have a GPA of at least 2.5 and 50 hours of experience in working with students with disabilities. You will complete a total of 125 semester hours of credit for graduation.
An extremely affordable program, the special education major features low tuition rates that start at just $12,254 per semester. Generous scholarships and other forms of financial aid are offered to qualifying students.
University of Texas at Austin
Founded in 1883, the University of Texas at Austin has the country’s seventh-largest single-campus enrollment, with more than 50,000 students attending class in Austin, TX. Despite its large size, the school has a focus on individual student achievement and success along with a small student-to-faculty ratio of 18:1.
The department of education at the University of Texas at Austin is continuously ranked among the top 10 departments in the nation by the U.S. News & World Report. Through UT Austin’s special education major, you’ll be offered the opportunity to gain research experience and specialist training with diverse populations of students across all age groups.
Special education faculty at the University of Texas are actively involved in innovative research with a global impact, with students exploring topics such as:
- Bilingual education
- Math and reading intervention
- Assistive technology
- Autism spectrum disorders
A five-semester special education program, this major includes field experiences, course work, and more than 1500 hours of hands-on teaching experience. You can also pursue other majors such as the youth and community studies major, which will allow you to concentrate in special populations such as those with communication disorders.
University of Maryland-College Park
A public university founded in 1856, the University of Maryland-College Park offers a thriving student environment with more than 800 clubs and organizations along with close access to both Baltimore and Washington, D.C. You won’t find many more schools with such a vibrant community to tap into!
There are two full-time undergraduate teacher preparation programs that lead to a Bachelor of Science degree at the University of Maryland—one is in elementary/middle special education and the other is in early childhood and early childhood special education.
Both majors consist of 120 credit hours of study that take a majority of students four years to complete. The degrees prepare you for special education teacher certification in the state of Maryland with reciprocity in all other states. You’ll take classes that focus on how to work with students with:
- Learning disabilities
- Autism and autism spectrum disorders
- Physical disabilities
The special education courses focus on evidence-based decision making and instructional practices and culminates in a year-long internship in an inclusive classroom.
Arizona State University-Tempe
Arizona State University-Tempe might be known for its downtown scene and athletic facilities, but this school has a long history of educating some of the country’s finest teachers, too. In fact, Arizona State University-Tempe first opened its doors as the Arizona Territorial Normal School and was initially founded to train public school teachers.
The Bachelor of Arts in education in special education and elementary education at Arizona State University is a multifaceted degree that trains future special education teachers in both special and general education settings. You’ll receive extensive training in general education subjects, like literacy and math. You will also learn the soft skills you’ll need to teach in any setting (like communication and problem-solving).
The special education major includes professional experiences via the MLFTC Professional Pathways program. This will allow you to engage in residencies and internships that expose you to numerous methods of teaching and learning. For example, you might intern part-time in a K-12 classroom, serving students with social needs, or complete a full-time residency in a special and general education classroom.
Through this special education major, you will also be taught how to work with assistive technology and various adaptive techniques so that you can help students with unique learning needs integrate into a general education classroom.
Upon graduation, you will be eligible for Arizona educator certification in special education, K-12 students with mild to moderate disabilities along with elementary education, K-8.
East Carolina University
With more than 175 degrees to choose from, East Carolina University is a school that prides itself on offering students choice and quality in their academic programs. Although East Carolina University has a reputation for exceptional online programs, it also offers learners a way to get involved on campus, too. The school has more than 300 campus clubs and countless facilities that provide students with hands-on experience.
If you’re a special education major, for example, you’ll love working at Nancy W. Darden Child Development Center, where you can observe the behavior of, and interact with, young children. The college of education offers multiple teacher training programs at the undergraduate level, including those in:
- Elementary education
- English education
- Science education
- Special education
There are actually two distinct special education pathways here—the special education adapted curriculum and the special education, general curriculum.
The adapted curriculum is for students who wish to work with children with significant cognitive disabilities who require an adapted curriculum.
Through the special education major, you’ll take classes in related services like:
- Adapted physical education
- Sign language
- Social work
- Occupational therapy
You will be able to work closely with community partners to gain experience in your field-based practicum courses.
The special education general curriculum will enable you to work with children with disabilities who will ultimately receive a high school diploma and are studying in the general education curriculum. You’ll receive a common core of the general skills and knowledge necessary for all beginning teachers. You’ll also complete all the requirements for licensure as a reading teacher as part of this program, too.
Indiana University-Bloomington
Located in Bloomington, IN, Indiana University-Bloomington is ranked as a school with very high research activity and has multiple schools and programs for prospective students to choose from. These include:
- The Kelly School of Business
- The Luddy School of Informatics, Computing, and Engineering
- The School of Education
The special education major at Indiana University-Bloomington leads to certification that will enable you to teach both special and elementary education at the K-6 level. You can work with students both with and without disabilities. Your course work will focus on integrating the techniques, theories, and philosophies associated with general and special education teaching. You’ll also be able to participate in numerous special education intensive field experiences.
This special program features some of the most unique field experiences around, in fact. You can participate in an integrated urban education field placement or spend time teaching overseas, in Chicago public schools, or in the Navajo Nation. Dual licensure is available for special education teachers who want to work in various levels.
To apply, you must have a minimum GPA of a 2.5 on a 4.0 scale. Financial aid is available for students who qualify.
University of Central Florida
The University of Central Florida has a fitting name, given that the university is, in fact, “central!”
There are campuses spread out among the state, with students given the opportunity to attend one of ten regional locations in:
- Ocala
- South Lake
- Orlando
- Daytona Beach
- And more!
The Bachelor of Science in exceptional education prepares students with the skills necessary to apply for licensure in exceptional education K-12 with reading and ESOL endorsement.
Eligible for funding under the TEACH grant, this special education major includes classes that fall into categories like:
- Communication
- Cultural and historical foundations
- Mathematical foundations
Once you complete the general education core, you’ll move on to advanced-level special education classes such as:
- Teaching Strategies and Classroom Management
- Theory and Practice of Teaching ESOL Students in Schools
- Introduction to Behavior Management
You will also complete several practicums to give you more hands-on experience in educating students with diverse needs. A minimum departmental GPA of 2.5 is needed to graduate.
Michigan State University
Originally dedicated exclusively to agriculture, Michigan State University now offers dozens of majors with more than 634,000 living alumni around the world. It’s top-ranked by the U.S. News & World Report for its graduate programs in education, too.
The Bachelor of Arts in special education at Michigan State’s college of education will enable you to combine regular elementary teaching certification with K-12 endorsement in the special education area of learning disabilities. You’ll complete four years of courses along with a fifth-year internship experience.
Your special education courses will help you forge connections between practice and theory as you receive mentoring from university and school faculty. Through Michigan’s special education major, you’ll gain the skills you need to teach all students effectively, but especially those with disabilities. You’ll receive more than 1000 hours of classroom experience, including the aforementioned full-year internship, and learn from faculty members who are leading teacher educators and researchers themselves.
The special education major has excellent outcomes. In fact, more than 90% of graduates land teaching positions in special or general education upon graduation. Many students also go on to one of Michigan State’s 100% online master’s degrees in learning disabilities or autism spectrum disorders, too.
Fort Hays State University
Fort Hays State University is a school that has received many accolades. According to the U.S. News & World Report, it’s hailed as one of the top Regional Universities in the Midwest, one of the Top Performers on Social Mobility, and even one of the overall Top Public Schools. Of course, Fort Hays also serves as one of the best colleges for special education.
The department of teacher education at Fort Hays offers nationally-ranked on-campus and online programs that combine solid theory and pedagogy with real-world classroom experiences. The curriculum is founded on three core pillars:
- Education technology
- Practicing what you teach
- Educational value
With these programs, you will be able to match your teaching passion with unique professional teacher education training. The special education degrees here have been recognized at the national level for their quality and affordability.
You’ll love the joint elementary/special education program here that will prepare you to serve more students and meet the needs of all the learners in your classroom.
Through the special education major, you’ll take 21 credit hours of special education coursework, including classes in:
- Assessment in Special Education
- Behavior Strategies and Support
- Principles of Instruction in Special Education
- Clinical Immersion Birth-Grade 12
Of course, a three-credit-hour student teaching experience in special education is also required to graduate.
University of Utah
As Utah’s oldest institution of higher education, the University of Utah knows a thing or two about providing high-quality, groundbreaking programs to its students. In fact, it opened its doors before Utah even became a state! You can’t beat that kind of legacy.
The department of special education in the college of education carries on the school’s superb reputation with the Bachelor of Science in special education. This special education major prepares you for basic teaching licensure in special education in the state of Utah. You’ll complete 122 semester hours of credit, including a professional core and specialization courses in a specific area of disabilities.
Special education specializations include:
- Visual impairments
- Severe disabilities
- Mild/moderate disabilities
- Deaf and hard of hearing
- Preschool/EI special education
Regardless of your area of specialization, you’ll take special education major classes like:
- Legal and Policy Foundations of Special Education
- Functional Communication and Language Development
- Principles of Instruction and Behavior Support
Future special education teachers: don’t miss this one! It’s definitely worth checking out.
University of Kansas
Located in Lawrence, KS, the University of Kansas is ranked as a Best Value School as well as a Best College for Veterans by U.S. News & World Report. With affordable tuition and small class sizes with an average student-to-faculty ratio of just 17:1, this school is clearly one of the best in the country.
The University of Kansas offers a bachelor’s degree in unified early childhood teacher education that is perfect for aspiring special education teachers of students of all backgrounds. The special education degree is offered through the KU school of education, which is a top-ranked school with world-renowned faculty.
Through KU’s special education major, you’ll have access to plenty of field experiences and you don’t have to wait until the end of your program to enjoy them, either. Field experiences start early and occur frequently, enabling you to work with students of all ages. The degree fulfills all requirements for a special education bachelor’s degree and provides you with all the credentials you need to pursue a teaching license in the state of Kansas.
Not only that, but you will have plenty of opportunities to precipitate in student organizations and networking opportunities while you are enrolled, too. From the Kansas National Education Association to various study abroad experiences, you’ll find everything you could possibly want in this nationally-accredited program.
University of South Carolina-Columbia
Frequently referred to as simply Carolina or USC, the University of South Carolina-Columbia is a large public school with a whopping seven satellite campuses spread among the state. It’s classified as one of the country’s top research universities and serves as the flagship institution of the University of South Carolina system.
USC houses one of the best special education colleges, too. The Bachelor of Arts in special education at the University of South Carolina-Columbia is a multi-categorical special education program that provides learners with the experience they need to educate students with learning, emotional, and intellectual disabilities.
As a special education major, you’ll be granted access to a wide range of practical experiences in the public education setting and be able to apply for teacher certification through the state department of education, too.
To apply, you must have a 2.75 cumulative GPA and have completed 45 to 60 credit hours from a regionally-accredited university. You’ll be able to take the rest of your classes fully online in about two years, but you can take a lighter course load if you prefer.
St. Petersburg College
St. Petersburg College is not only one of the leading schools when it comes to education programs, but also in terms of its affordability. In fact, 88% of full-time students receive some form of need-based financial aid!
The bachelor’s degree in exceptional student education at St. Petersburg College will prepare students for a career in great demand around the country—special education teachers.
Through SPC’s special education major, you’ll graduate with the skills and credentials you need to become certified to teach ESE classes in the state of Florida. You’ll take a vast majority of your classes with elementary education majors so that you will also be prepared to teach the general education curriculum.
With both full- and part-time programs available, classes at St. Petersburg are incredibly convenient for all learners. You can take classes face-to-face as well as online and in a blended format.
The special education major even comes with additional reading and English for speakers of other languages endorsements. Because of this, you will graduate as a valuable candidate for all kinds of jobs.
You’ll be able to participate in multiple quality school-based experiences each term and enjoy a curriculum that’s infused with interdisciplinary subjects. These special education degrees are affordable and supplemented by scholarship opportunities to make it even easier to attend.
University of Wisconsin-Stout
Located in Menomonie, WI, the University of Wisconsin-Stout has dozens of programs that are focused on preparing students for professional careers in:
- Applied art
- Industry
- Technology
- Home economics
- “The helping professions”
Is there any career dedicated more to helping other people than special education? Hardly.
The bachelor’s degree in special education at the University of Wisconsin-Stout will provide you with the skills you need to educate students who have behavioral, cognitive, emotional, or learning disabilities at the ages of 5 through 21.
As a special education major, you’ll enjoy personalized faculty support and tailored advice along with plenty of field placements from early on in your degree. You’ll have the opportunity to pursue cross-categorical licensure and to teach children in any school setting. The degree comes with an optional additional autism certificate and requires 120 credit hours of study.
This special education degree is one of the best when it comes to career outcomes, too. In fact, 100% of graduates are either employed or pursuing continued education upon graduation.
University of Southern Mississippi
The University of Southern Mississippi is a public university that was founded in 1910 and has two campuses—one in Hattiesburg and one in Long Beach. With dozens of majors and nearly 300 student organizations for you to choose from, you’re sure to find something that piques your interest here.
This school has led the way in providing high-quality special education teachers for more than a century. Accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education, the special education degree will allow you to work one-on-one with children across all subjects and to provide high-quality interventions in both small and whole-group settings.
Through this special education major, You’ll be able to participate in numerous professional development programs and activities and to be mentored by faculty who are both experienced and knowledgeable. After you’ve been accepted into your special education program, you’ll start working on the first of three sequenced semesters with carefully planned practicums.
Special education faculty are incredibly engaged and encourage students to observe and work one-on-one with students with diverse needs. You’ll have access to study abroad experiences in places like London, England and can apply to a long list of scholarships to make your studies more affordable, too.
Georgia State University
As one of four research universities in the University System of Georgia, Georgia State University has certainly made its mark on thousands of students and alumni all over the world. In fact, it is ranked within the top ten in the number of students with a diverse majority-minority population of around 53,000 students.
The bachelor’s degree in special education at Georgia State will prepare you to work with students with all kinds of mild to moderate learning and behavioral disabilities, including:
- Attention disorders
- Autism spectrum disorders
- Hearing impairments
As a special education major, you’ll enjoy a program that leads to initial certification in one of three concentration areas:
- General curriculum
- Adapted curriculum
- Deaf education
You will complete a total of 123 semester hours of credit, taking classes primarily on the Atlanta campus. Your special education classes will include titles such as:
- Investigating Critical and Contemporary Issues in Education
- Human Learning and Development
- Understanding Miscommunication
To apply for this special education major, you must have a 2.5 GPA on all undergraduate coursework previously completed. You must also take the GACE Program Admission Assessment and complete an application for a pre-service certificate.
University of West Florida
At the University of West Florida, you’ll join a large campus community of more than 9,500 students. However, you’ll find that it’s hard to get lost in the crowd here. Not only does the school have a small student-to-faculty ratio, but incoming students also have plenty of opportunities to get to know each other, including through ArgoConnect, the school’s social network.
The Bachelor of Arts in exceptional student education at the University of West Florida is designed to prepare future special education teachers who wish to teach young children with exceptional learning needs. The special education major can lead to certification in K-12 exceptional student education as well as elementary education with ESOL and reading endorsements.
As a student in this special education major, you’ll take classes such as:
- Methods in Inclusion and Collaboration
- Teaching Science in Elementary Schools
- Assessment and Differentiated Instruction in Reading
You will also be required to complete a student teaching experience. Many successful special education teachers come from the University of Florida. Make sure to check this one out!
Liberty University
By student enrollment, Liberty University is one of the largest private nonprofit universities in the United States. In fact, the school enrolls more than 110,000 students between its online courses and its Lynchburg, VA campus. With the online campus alone, there are more than 94,000 students enrolled!
The 100% online bachelor’s degree in special education at Liberty University consists of 120 credit hours and takes most students around three and a half years to complete. It focuses on core topics that are easy to apply to your classroom work, like:
- Education theory
- Adaptation techniques
- Learning disabilities
This highly interdisciplinary degree is accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education through the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation. It’s an excellent choice if you’d like to pursue an eventual Master of Arts in Teaching, too.
The curriculum includes a Christian framework and includes core classes like Autism: Educational and Theoretical Approaches and Intervention for Students with Intellectual Disabilities.
An affordable program, this special education degree is offered with free electronic textbooks to help cut costs even further. Tuition has stayed the same for the past six years and counting, so you don’t have to worry about tuition hikes while you are enrolled. Not only that, but students enrolled in this program will be able to access a variety of research through Liberty’s extensive online library resources.
Dakota State University
A public university founded in 1881, Dakota State University has a total undergraduate enrollment of more than 3,000 students, making it one of the smaller public universities in the country. Located in Madison, SD, this school offers dozens of in-demand programs for aspiring special education teachers to choose from.
The Bachelor of Special Education in elementary education and special education at Dakota State University will provide you with the tools, skills, and confidence you need to educate students of all backgrounds. You will be able to participate in a number of outstanding field experiences and undertake a year-long student teaching residency in a public school as a culminating capstone experience.
Through this special education degree, you will be able to pursue a variety of additional endorsements upon graduation, too, including those in K-12 technology and Title I. A number of scholarships and grants are available for both elementary and special education majors to make this degree even more affordable. Many successful special education teachers have graduated from Dakota’ State’s special education program. You could be next!
Mayville State University
Mayville State University is a public university in Mayville, AND is part of the North Dakota University System. First established in 1889, the school opened its doors as a normal school dedicated to the preparation of teachers.
Of course, the school continues to offer many of these same exceptional teacher education programs today. The Bachelor of Science in education in special education at Mayville State is available entirely online. It is available as a stand-alone program as well as a degree that is offered in conjunction with optional majors in elementary, secondary, or early childhood education.
Most students will take around four years to complete their special education degrees. However, through this special education degree, you will enjoy a curriculum that is standards-based yet highly individualized. A transfer-friendly institution, Mayville State is also affordable, with online courses costing just $328 per credit hour regardless of residency.
The special education program meets the licensure requirements for North Dakota as well as many other states.
Kansas State University
With more than 300 majors to choose from, Kansas State University offers learners plenty of choice. There are also more than 450 organizations in which you can partake of the diverse Manhattan, KS campus.
The college of education at Kansas State University offers a variety of programs in special education, including many (like the online master’s in special education) that are offered entirely online.
As a special education major, you can pursue your special education certification as an undergraduate provisional high-incidence endorsement that can be added to both an elementary or secondary education licensure program. Not only that, but Kansas State offers graduate certificates in teaching students with autism spectrum disorder, too.
Regardless of the degree you choose, you’ll find that your education at Kansas State University prepares you to work with students with special needs both in a special education classroom as well as in a general education setting.
This special education program requires classes like Technology for Special Education and Consulting Process in Special Education. Of course, a special education practicum is also a core component of this degree.
Brigham Young University
A private research university located in Provo, UT, Brigham Young University has a selective admissions process and more than 200 majors for students to choose from.
Enroll at BYU, and you’ll be expected to follow a strict honor code that mandates behavior in line with the teaching of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, by which the school is owned. In exchange, though, you’ll be granted access to one of the best bachelor’s in special education in the entire country.
The Bachelor of Science in counseling psychology and special education at Brigham Young University offers the perfect pathway for students interested in careers in special education. You can pursue opportunities like volunteering, scholarships, and student teaching to help add meaning and relevance to your courses.
This special education program will prepare students for careers as special education teachers, but also for unique positions such as a:
- Behavior analysts
- Direct support professionals
- Transition specialists
It’s one of the few special education programs of its kind in the entire country.
Old Dominion University
First created as a division of William and Mary, Old Dominion University is now a public university of its own accord located in Norfolk, VA. With more than 100 academic programs to choose from, this urban school is home to a dynamic school of education known as the Darden College of Education.
There are multiple special education programs at Old Dominion, including a bachelor’s degree in special education with a general curriculum focus and certificates in subjects like autism and applied behavior analysis. There are also master’s and Ph.D. programs in special education you can pursue! Whatever you choose, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for here.
The bachelor’s degree in special education includes coursework that covers subjects like:
- Educational foundations
- Theory
- Methods
- Assessment
- Technology
You can take classes both face-to-face as well as online to make earning a degree more convenient than ever.
To apply for this special education bachelor’s degree, you’ll need to have a cumulative GPA of at least 2.75.
You will complete a total of 120 credit hours in order to graduate. This includes a final internship that will allow you to work in a real-world school setting.
Illinois State University
A public university located in Normal, IL, Illinois State University emphasizes education programs and is one of the top ten largest producers of special education teachers in the United States, according to the American Association of Colleges of Teacher Education. Can you think of a better place to pursue a degree in special education?
A large specialty program, the learning and behavior specialist program at Illinois State prepares students to work with individuals who have cognitive, emotional, or learning disabilities.
As a special education major, your classes will teach you how to plan and assess instructional interventions for students with all kinds of disabilities and to work with other stakeholders to meet commonly shared goals.
You can choose from three specialist areas as you take your special education courses:
- Deaf and hard of hearing
- Learning and behavior
- Low vision and blindness
You will also complete a full semester of student teaching, during which you’ll be awarded 12 semester hours of credit.
Stephen F. Austin University
A public university founded in 1923, Stephen F. Austin University is located in Nacogdoches, TX and offers a variety of student services for you to access. Not only will you benefit from things like nonremedial tutoring and tons of student activities, but you’ll also find one of the best colleges for special education here.
The special education degree at Stephen F. Austin University is perfect for aspiring special education teachers who wish to gain more interdisciplinary training. You’ll be able to pursue certification both as an EC-12 special education teacher as well as an EC-6 generalist teacher. Available on campus and online, it’s also available as a minor.
In addition to a general special education minor, the university also offers an 18-hour non-teaching minor for students who want to pursue a certification in special education but are already enrolled in a problem like:
- Psychology
- Kinesiology
- Social work
- Rehabilitation
There is also a minor in early intervention that’s ideal for students who are majoring in speech-language pathology or rehabilitation.
Clemson University
With seven colleges for students to choose from, Clemson University offers plenty of choice for its more than 25,000 students. Located in the scenic foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Clemson is a public land-grant research university in Clemson, SC.
The bachelor’s degree at Clemson University prepares learners for careers as special education teachers. Through this special education major, you will especially focus students with mild-to-moderate disabilities in grades pre-K through 12. You’ll enjoy a curriculum that focuses on research-based assessment and instructional practices and have access to field-based learning experiences as soon as your very first class. In addition to required field experiences, the special education program offers plenty of service and leadership opportunities, too.
You’ll enjoy placement opportunities at both the elementary and high school level. The special education degree is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation and the International Council for Exceptional Children. It exceeds the state’s minimum requirements for field experience hours before student teaching and includes coursework that will enable you to add an elementary education certification to the special education licensure, too.
All in all, you’ll complete more than 160 hours of experience with just your senior year field experience alone. Before you graduate, you’ll present an electronic portfolio that will bring together your major accomplishments throughout the program.
University of North Carolina Wilmington
Founded in 1947, the University of North Carolina Wilmington is a public university with a large undergraduate enrollment of nearly 15,000 students. It is ranked as one of the Best Value Schools and Best Colleges for Veterans by U.S. News & World Report. Additionally, UNC Wilmington trains aspiring special education teachers.
The elementary education bachelor’s degree at the University of North Carolina Wilmington is a rewarding program that is offered fully online as well as on-campus in Jacksonville and Wilmington.
Ideal for military families as well as other busy professionals, the special education program offers concentrations in early childhood, behavioral students, English as a Second Language, and more. You’ll be able to pursue certification as a special educator and many other areas.
This special education major will provide you with the opportunity to forge relationships with local public school teachers via its many field experiences. You can participate in international programs, if you choose, or tutor students on campus in the Ed Lab.
Regardless of which opportunities you choose to pursue, you’ll learn from dedicated elementary education faculty who know how to make a difference in the life of their students.
Western Washington University
Join the Western Washington University community, and you’ll become a Viking, a reputation that alumni don’t take lightly. With a campus of more than 215 acres in Bellingham, WA, Western Washington offers one of the best places to earn a degree in special education. In fact, it was first founded as the New Whatcom Normal School, a college for educating teachers.
The special education P-12 and elementary education K-8 programs at Western Washington University are dual endorsement degrees that enable you to apply for licensure in two distinct areas. Not only does this special education major prepare students to become general education teachers, but also special education teachers with the broad knowledge you’ll gain of special education practices.
All in all, you’ll complete a total of 158 credit hours of study through special education courses. These credit hours will include:
- A professional studies core
- The special education major
- The elementary program curriculum and methods
Of course, you’ll also complete two hands-on internships in schools, too. Some special education classes you will take include:
- Disability Law and IEP
- Teaching for Learning, Motivation, and Achievement in a Diverse Society
- Developmental and Remedial Reading Instruction for Inclusive Settings
Miami University-Oxford
A public university founded in 1809, Miami University-Oxford has a total undergraduate enrollment of nearly 18,000 students. In fact, it’s college students that make up nearly 75% of the town of Oxford, Ohio’s population!
At Miami University-Oxford, you’ll find one of the very best degrees in special education. The grades K-12 special education – inclusive degree will prepares future special education teachers for licensure. This special education major also teaches you how to meet the needs of students with physical, behavioral, mental, learning, and sensory disabilities.
A top-ranking special education program, it will provide you with extensive classroom experience as early as the first year. In fact, two of the required courses in the first year, Introduction to the Teaching Profession and Theories of Human Development and Learning, include field-based experiences.
You’ll also complete a full semester of student teaching and a variety of professional special education courses.
To apply, you must have a high school diploma and complete the Common Application. ACT or SAT test scores are optional.
Frequently Asked Questions
Special education is one of the highest paying teacher jobs. The average annual pay, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, is $62,950/year. The highest 10% make over $102,000/year. Besides high pay, there is demand for these specialized teachers, making the degree worth it for college students.
To become a special education teacher, you must get a bachelor’s degree in special education or a related field. You then need to do the following:
• Complete a teacher preparation program (includes student teaching).
• Obtain state certification or licensure.
• Consider earning a master’s degree for career advancement.
You should also develop strong communication and interpersonal skills to work effectively with students, parents, and other educators.
Most bachelor’s in special education degrees take four years to get. Programs require 120 credits, which means you must complete between 12 and 15 credits each semester to graduate in four years. There are online and accelerated programs that have a shorter completion time (3-3.5 years) but you must enroll full time.
Yes, many scholarships are available for special education majors. Organizations like the Council for Exceptional Children and the National Association of Special Education Teachers offer scholarships for students. You can also find financial support from state education departments and private foundations.
Special education can be a challenging major. It requires a deep understanding of diverse learning needs and effective teaching strategies. It involves coursework in psychology, behavior management, and specialized instruction. But if you’re empathetic, adaptable, and have patience you can do well in this field.
Yes, many colleges and universities offer online special education degree programs. Online programs cover coursework and practicum experiences, preparing students for certification. Some also move at an accelerated pace, so you’re able to get your degree in less than 4 years. But it’s important to ensure the program you attend is accredited and meets state licensure requirements.
The demand for special education teachers is high in urban and rural areas, where there are shortages of qualified teachers. Specific regions experiencing increased demand include:
• California
• New York
• Texas
These states have seen persistent needs for special education teachers in underserved communities.
Yes! It’s possible to become a principal with a special education degree. Many principals have diverse educational backgrounds, including special education. But you’ll need additional qualifications such as a master’s degree in educational leadership or administration and relevant administrative experience to land a principal job.
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