Program Overview
Credits: 120 credits with at least 36 credits in the academic content area of specialization.
Our Special Education program is recommended for people who have a passion for teaching students with learning differences. As a student in our College of Education, you’ll be encouraged to explore concepts, issues, and problems from multiple perspectives with reflection, collaboration, and analysis of diverse evidence. Through this foundation, you’ll systematically build your knowledge and skill through coursework and field experiences, beginning in your first semester at Niagara.
Once you successfully complete our program and pass New York state testing requirements, you’ll qualify for initial teacher certification in New York for students with disabilities.
Extensive Field Experience
You’ll blend theory with practice here, as our Education students begin observational experiences in schools in their first semester at Niagara. You’ll develop skills and gain direct experience to eventually take on planning and leadership roles in the classroom.
Special Olympics Experience
Many candidates in this program complete the Special Olympics Coaching and Games Management course, which enables you to obtain SO Coaching Certification while supporting the health and wellbeing of individuals with developmental disabilities.
First Semester Coursework
Our Education students have relevant coursework in every semester beginning on day one, helping you understand the profession and solidify your decision to become a teacher.
Discovery Awaits
What You’ll Study at Niagara University
All of our Education programs include a blend of general education, major academic concentration, professional education, and comprehensive field experiences. These components of the curriculum are designed as a sequential, coherent program of study that culminates in a comprehensive and supervised student teaching experience.
As a teacher candidate, you’ll also be expected to develop and demonstrate professional commitment and relationships, responsibility, critical thinking, and reflected practice. These core skill sets are assessed in courses, field experiences, and student teaching.
Find Your Best Self
Knowledge, Experience, and Skill Development
Confidence in the classroom, thanks to field experiences beginning in your first semester
Professional commitment to responsibility and ethical relationships
Critical thinking skills
Niagara By the Numbers:
Prepare to Soar
Academic, Experiential, and Career Pathways
Related Programs
- American Sign Language, Minor »
- Dance, Minor »
- Theatre Studies, Minor »
- Literacy, Minor
- Graduate Education programs
Opportunities
Classroom experiences throughout the area
Niagara University Future Teachers Association
Study Abroad opportunities
Careers
Teacher certification in New York state
Certification in 46 reciprocity states
Teaching in foreign countries
Assistance into Ontario College of Teachers for eligibility
Median salary for Special Education Teachers $65,910 per year according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Ready to Apply?
Filling out an application is easy!
NU offers rolling admissions, which means that you can apply at any time for the upcoming semester. Applications are reviewed as they come in, and students are typically notified of an admission decision in 3-4 weeks. What’s stopping you?
Apply Now