Morehead State University

What you'll study

Students study a blend of foundational and applied topics that may include:

• Assessment and evaluation — techniques for identifying learning needs and measuring student progress.
• Instructional methods — differentiated and specialized teaching approaches for diverse learners, including literacy and math interventions.
• Behavior supports — positive behavior interventions, classroom management, and individualized behavior plans.
• Curriculum adaptation and inclusion — designing accessible lessons and supporting students within general education settings.
• Legal, ethical, and family partnerships — special education law, Individualized Education Program (IEP) development, and collaboration with caregivers and professionals.
• Practicum/field experience — supervised teaching in special education settings to apply skills in real classrooms.

Entry requirements

Applicants typically need a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution; preference is often given to those with a teaching certificate or relevant classroom experience. Requirements commonly include transcripts, a statement of purpose, and references; some programmes also require a background check and documentation of prior coursework in education or behavior/psychology.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles such as special education teacher, resource room teacher, inclusion specialist, behavioral interventionist, or instructional coach within K–12 schools. With additional experience or credentials, graduates may move into leadership, district-level special education coordination, or roles in related services and nonprofit organisations supporting students with disabilities.

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

Funding options include university graduate assistantships, institutional scholarships for returning teachers, state or federal grants for special education professionals, and employer-sponsored tuition assistance for certified teachers. Prospective students should contact the university’s financial aid office and the college of education to learn about programme-specific awards, assistantships tied to teaching or research, and eligibility for loan forgiveness programmes for special education teachers.