University of South Alabama

What you'll study

This programme combines foundations in education with specialised courses on teaching learners with disabilities and diverse learning needs. Core topics include developmental psychology, learning theory, assessment and evaluation, behaviour management, individualised education programmes (IEPs), curriculum adaptation and differentiated instruction. You will also study legal and ethical issues in special education, collaboration with families and other professionals, transition planning for post-school life, and the use of assistive and instructional technology.

Coursework is balanced with school-based experiences. Typical components include observations and short practicum placements in inclusive and specialised settings, progressive field placements working alongside certified teachers, and a culminating full-time student teaching semester or clinical internship. Modules you can expect include:

• Introduction to Special Education and Inclusive Practices
• Assessment and Diagnosis in Special Education
• Behaviour Management and Positive Interventions
• Curriculum Design and Differentiation for Diverse Learners
• Assistive Technology and Accessible Instruction
• Family and Community Collaboration
• Transition Planning and Life Skills Instruction
• Practicum and Student Teaching in K–12 Settings

Entry requirements

Applicants typically need a recognised secondary school diploma or equivalent. The College of Education requires demonstration of academic preparedness through a competitive cumulative GPA from high school or prior college study; specific GPA thresholds and required subject prerequisites are set by the university and are best confirmed via the admissions office.

In addition to academic criteria, candidates must meet professional standards for teacher education. Common requirements include background checks, proof of immunisations where required for school placements, completion of a program application to the teacher education unit, and interviews or a review of a candidate portfolio. Passing scores on any state-mandated basic skills or subject-area tests may be required for progression to student teaching and for initial teacher licensure in Alabama.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared to work as special education teachers in public and private schools, teaching in self-contained classrooms, resource rooms, or inclusive settings. Typical job titles include Special Education Teacher, Inclusion Specialist, Resource Teacher and Behaviour Intervention Specialist. With additional certification or graduate study, alumni move into roles such as Educational Diagnostician, Transition Specialist, Special Education Coordinator or school-based instructional leader.

Outside of K–12 schools, graduates find roles in early intervention programmes, nonprofit services for people with disabilities, residential and community support agencies, and curriculum or training positions focused on special needs education. Many graduates also pursue a master’s degree in special education, educational leadership or related areas to expand career options and meet advanced certification requirements.

Why study at University of South Alabama

The University of South Alabama’s teacher education programmes combine campus-based coursework with extensive field experience in the Mobile metropolitan region, giving students exposure to diverse classrooms and school systems. The College of Education emphasises hands-on preparation, mentoring from faculty with PK–12 experience and coordinated supervised placements that build practical skills across grade levels and settings.

Students benefit from on-campus resources that support teacher candidates—such as academic advising, exam preparation for licensure requirements, and partnerships with local school districts for practicum and student teaching. The programme is designed to prepare graduates for Alabama teacher certification and to give them the clinical experience and pedagogical skills needed to begin their careers working with learners who have a wide range of needs.