Utah Valley University

What you'll study

The curriculum typically covers:

• Assessment and evaluation — formal and informal assessment strategies, interpreting results to inform instruction and eligibility decisions.
• Instructional design — differentiated curricula, adaptations, and evidence-based interventions for students with mild to moderate disabilities.
• Behaviour and classroom management — positive behaviour supports, functional behaviour assessment, and data-based decision making.
• Legal and ethical foundations — special education law, IEP development, and family-professional collaboration.
• Practicum or field experience — supervised clinical hours in real classroom or school settings to apply skills with students.

Entry requirements

Applicants are generally expected to hold a bachelor's degree and professional preparation in education or a related field. Many programmes require a current teaching license or relevant experience, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose outlining professional goals in special education.

Career prospects

Graduates commonly pursue roles as special education teachers, inclusion specialists, behaviour interventionists, or resource coordinators in public and private schools. Additional paths include district-level special education administration, assessment specialist roles, and positions in non-profit or early intervention services; further certification or licensure may be required depending on the employer and jurisdiction.

Scholarships & funding angle

Funding opportunities often include university graduate assistantships, department scholarships for special education students, loan forgiveness programs for working in high-need schools, and external grants focused on teacher development. Prospective students should contact the programme office and financial aid to explore assistantship eligibility and regional incentives tied to special education service.