Auburn University at Montgomery

What you'll study

The programme combines foundations in education and child development with specialised coursework in teaching learners with disabilities. Core topics include instructional design and curriculum adaptation, assessment and progress monitoring for diverse learners, positive behaviour supports, evidence‑based interventions for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and use of assistive and adaptive technologies.

• Foundations of Special Education — legal and historical perspectives, inclusion and collaboration with families and professionals.
• Child and Adolescent Development — developmental milestones and implications for instruction.
• Assessment and Data‑Based Decision Making — formal and informal assessment, progress monitoring and Individualised Education Programmes (IEPs).
• Behaviour Management and Positive Behaviour Support — functional behaviour assessment, classroom management and strategies for reducing challenging behaviour.
• Instructional Strategies for Diverse Learners — differentiated instruction, literacy and numeracy interventions, and evidence‑based teaching practices.
• Assistive Technologies and Accessible Materials — tools and adaptations to support communication, learning and participation.
• Practicum and Student Teaching — progressively structured field experiences in local schools culminating in a supervised student teaching placement.
• Professional Issues and Collaboration — working with multidisciplinary teams, ethical practice and preparation for state certification requirements.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a high school diploma or equivalent and submit official secondary school transcripts. AUM considers applicants based on academic preparation, recommendations and a statement of purpose describing interest in special education. Standardised test scores may be optional or considered in context of the overall application. As part of admission to the professional sequence, students typically complete prerequisite coursework, a background check and, where required, demonstration of passing scores on any state or institutional foundational assessments.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared to seek state teacher certification and work as special education teachers in public and private schools, serving learners from early childhood through secondary levels depending on certification coverage. Other common career paths include resource or inclusion specialist roles, behaviour interventionist, transition coordinator, instructional coach for special education, and positions with non‑profit organisations, early intervention programmes or educational support services. Many graduates continue to postgraduate study in special education, educational leadership or related fields to specialise further or qualify for administrative and specialist roles.

Why study at Auburn University at Montgomery

AUM emphasises small classes and close faculty mentorship, allowing students to build practical teaching skills through early and sustained field placements in Montgomery‑area schools. The College of Education works with local districts to provide diverse practicum opportunities and to align programme content with state certification standards. Faculty in the education programmes bring K–12 experience and research in inclusive practice, and students benefit from advising and clinical supervision aimed at successful classroom entry. The programme’s focus on applied learning and collaboration with community partners helps graduates move into teaching roles with hands‑on experience and professional networks.