Shawnee State University

What you'll study

This programme combines theory, evidence-based instructional strategies and sustained clinical experience to prepare graduates for teaching students with mild to moderate disabilities and other special learning needs. Core study areas include child and adolescent development, foundations of special education, assessment and evaluation, behaviour management, inclusive and differentiated instruction, curriculum adaptations, and transition planning.

• Foundations of Education and Special Education: history, law and ethics of special education, multicultural and family-centred practice.
• Assessment and Assessment Technology: formal and informal assessment methods, progress monitoring, data-driven instruction and Individualised Education Program (IEP) development.
• Instructional Methods: differentiated instruction, explicit teaching strategies, literacy and numeracy interventions, assistive technology and Universal Design for Learning (UDL).
• Behaviour and Classroom Management: positive behaviour supports, functional behaviour assessment and evidence-based interventions.
• Specialist Topics: inclusive practices for students with autism spectrum disorder, learning disabilities, intellectual disabilities and other low-incidence needs; transition services from school to post-school life.
• Practicum and Student Teaching: multiple supervised field placements in local schools culminating in a full-term student teaching experience under mentor teacher supervision.
• Capstone and Professional Preparation: portfolio development, ethics and professional responsibilities, preparation for state licensure requirements and classroom induction.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a recognised high school diploma or equivalent. Successful candidates typically demonstrate a solid academic record, particularly in English and mathematics, and show readiness for university-level study. Additional admissions considerations include a personal statement reflecting interest in working with children and young people with special needs, and references or evidence of relevant volunteer or work experience.

Because the programme leads to teacher licensure, students must also meet professional clearance requirements for school-based placements, such as background checks and fingerprinting. Progression through the professional phase usually requires meeting minimum GPA standards, completion of specified prerequisite courses, and satisfactory performance in initial clinical experiences. Candidates should be aware that passing the state-required teacher certification examinations is necessary for licensure and employment as a classroom teacher.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a range of roles in education and allied sectors. Common career paths include special education teacher in public and private schools, resource or inclusion teacher, intervention specialist, behaviour support specialist, and classroom teacher with responsibilities for differentiated instruction. Graduates may also work as paraprofessionals, transition coordinators, or education support staff, and many pursue postgraduate qualifications such as a Master of Education, educational therapy, or specialist certification to expand their scope of practice.

The programme’s emphasis on practicum and local district partnerships supports employability in regional schools and agencies that provide services for children with disabilities.

Why study at Shawnee State University

Shawnee State offers a learner-centred environment with small class sizes and close faculty mentoring, which is particularly beneficial for pre-service teachers developing practical classroom skills. The university has established partnerships with nearby school districts to provide diverse, supervised field experiences and student teaching placements. Education students benefit from hands-on training in community settings, access to education resources and labs, and programme advising geared towards meeting state licensure requirements.

As a regional public university, Shawnee State focuses on applied learning and community engagement, helping students build professional networks locally while preparing them for state certification and careers serving learners with special needs.