University of Nebraska Kearney

What you'll study

The programme combines foundations of education, developmental psychology and evidence-based special education methods to prepare graduates for classroom and school-based roles. Core study areas include assessment and progress monitoring, instructional design and curriculum adaptation, behaviour supports and classroom management, differentiated literacy and mathematics instruction, and transition planning for post-school outcomes.

• Foundations and theory: Introduction to special education law and policy, history and philosophy of the field, child and adolescent development.
• Assessment and instruction: Diagnostic assessment, progress monitoring, data-based decision making, adapted instruction for learners with intellectual disabilities, learning disabilities and communication disorders.
• Classroom practice: Inclusive and co-teaching strategies, behaviour intervention planning, functional behaviour assessment, positive behaviour supports.
• Specialised topics: Autism spectrum disorders, severe and multiple disabilities, assistive technology, social skills instruction, transition planning and vocational supports.
• Practicum and student teaching: Multiple supervised field experiences in partner schools culminating in a full-time student teaching placement under mentor teachers, with opportunities across grade levels and settings.
• Professional skills: Family and community collaboration, ethical practice, cultural competence, classroom management, and preparation for state teacher licensure assessments.

Entry requirements

Applicants must hold a high school diploma or equivalent. Admission to the University is followed by formal admission to the Teacher Education program, which typically requires completion of introductory education coursework, a minimum college GPA, and demonstration of professional dispositions. Evidence of basic skills proficiency is usually required; some standardised test scores may be requested but policies vary.

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Meeting the University of Nebraska at Kearney general admissions criteria.
• Progression to teacher candidacy usually requires completion of designated education courses and meeting a minimum GPA threshold as set by the Teacher Education department.
• Clearances: criminal background check and health requirements (such as immunisations and TB screening) are required before participating in field placements.
• Ongoing requirements: completion of required field hours and successful performance in practicum and student teaching placements.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared to pursue state licensure and work as special education teachers in public and private schools, serving students with a range of learning needs. Career paths include resource room teacher, inclusion/co-teaching specialist, behaviour interventionist, transition and vocational specialist, instructional coach for special education, or special education coordinator. Many graduates also pursue graduate study in special education, educational leadership or related services such as school psychology and speech–language pathology.

Why study at University of Nebraska Kearney

UNK offers a programme grounded in practical experience through partnerships with regional schools, allowing students to complete multiple supervised field placements and a full student teaching residency. The department emphasises small cohort sizes and faculty mentorship, providing personalised supervision, feedback and support for licensure preparation. Students benefit from campus-based resources such as instructional labs, disability services collaborations and professional development opportunities, all designed to align training with Nebraska state certification requirements and regional employment needs.