University of Mississippi

What you'll study

This undergraduate programme combines core education studies with specialised coursework and substantial clinical experience. Students take modules covering child and adolescent development, educational psychology, foundations of special education, assessment and diagnosis, and curriculum differentiation for diverse learners.

• Foundations of Special Education — history, models and laws affecting special education; inclusive practices.
• Assessment and Intervention — formal and informal assessment techniques, progress monitoring and data-driven intervention planning.
• Behaviour Management and Positive Supports — functional behaviour assessment, behaviour intervention planning and classroom management strategies.
• Instructional Methods and Curriculum Adaptation — designing accessible lessons, scaffolding, and differentiated instruction across content areas.
• Literacy and Communication Strategies — reading interventions, language development and augmentative/alternative communication approaches.
• Assistive Technology — tools and applications that support learning, accessibility and independence.
• Legal, Ethical and Family Partnership Issues — Individualised Education Programmes (IEPs), special education law, collaboration with families and multidisciplinary teams.
• Practicum and Student Teaching — progressively increasing field placements in local schools culminating in full-time supervised student teaching.

General education and elective requirements complement the major, and faculty guide students through the sequence of professional education courses necessary for eligibility for state licensure or certification in special education.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a high school diploma or equivalent and meet the University of Mississippi's undergraduate admission standards. Typical preparation includes satisfactory academic performance in secondary school, with coursework in English and mathematics. Standardised test scores (where required) and a demonstrated interest in working with children or young people strengthen applications.

• Admission to the teacher education sequence usually requires successful completion of specified general education courses and a minimum cumulative GPA as set by the School of Education.
• Candidates must complete background checks and any required health or immunisation documentation prior to participating in field placements.
• Some programmes require passing basic skills or professional readiness assessments before student teaching; candidates should consult the School of Education for specific testing policies and benchmarks.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for licenced teaching roles in K–12 special education settings, including resource rooms, self-contained classrooms and inclusive general education environments. The degree also supports roles working alongside schools and families to improve outcomes for students with disabilities.

• Special education teacher (elementary, middle or high school)
• Inclusion or resource teacher supporting mainstream classrooms
• Behavioural interventionist or classroom behaviour specialist
• Transition or vocational coordinator for students with disabilities
• Paraprofessional, instructional coach or curriculum specialist with further certification
• Further study options include graduate programmes in special education, educational psychology, educational leadership, school counselling or educational diagnostics.

Why study at University of Mississippi

The University of Mississippi's School of Education offers a programme grounded in a combination of research-informed practice and sustained clinical experience. Students benefit from partnerships with regional school districts that provide a wide range of placement settings and direct classroom mentorship.

• Access to experienced faculty who balance research and classroom experience in special education.
• Structured field experiences that progress from observation to full-time student teaching under supervision.
• Support services for licensure and professional development, including guidance on certification pathways and exam preparation.
• Opportunities to engage with campus organisations and community initiatives focused on inclusive education and advocacy for learners with disabilities.

Prospective students should contact the School of Education for detailed guidance on programme sequencing, licensure requirements and support available during clinical placements.