Cost & earnings at Canisius University What students borrow here, and what they go on to earn
Education graduates earn a median $33,993 Across 412 US programmes, two years after finishing
See the degree grade →The Bachelor’s in Special Education and Teaching at Canisius University prepares students to support learners with diverse needs through evidence‑based instruction, assessment and inclusive classroom practices. It suits candidates committed to classroom teaching, advocacy and building partnerships with families and communities, and who intend to pursue state teacher certification and careers in K–12 special education.
The programme blends foundations of education, specialised coursework in disability and learning differences, and extended clinical experiences in local schools. Core topics include child and adolescent development, theories of learning, educational psychology and classroom management. Special education courses focus on assessment and diagnosis, individualized education program (IEP) development, behaviour intervention strategies, inclusive and differentiated instruction, curriculum adaptations, assistive technology, transition planning and legal/ethical issues in special education.
Students typically progress from introductory methods and content-area pedagogy to advanced seminars and practicum placements. Coursework is complemented by supervised field experiences across age ranges and settings (early childhood, elementary, middle and secondary), culminating in a full-term student teaching placement under licensed cooperating teachers. The programme emphasises culturally responsive practices, collaboration with families and interdisciplinary teams, and the use of data to guide instruction and monitor progress.
Applicants need a high school diploma or equivalent with a record of strong academic performance. Typical entry expectations include completion of college preparatory courses, a competitive GPA, and submission of transcripts and a personal statement outlining interest in special education. Canisius considers applicants holistically, taking into account recommendations, relevant volunteer or work experience with children or individuals with disabilities, and commitment to service and inclusion.
Students pursuing teacher certification will also need to meet the university and state requirements for teacher education program admission, which commonly include completion of prerequisite coursework, a minimum GPA in professional studies, background checks and health/clearance documentation. Certification candidates should expect to fulfil any state‑mandated certification examinations and other licensure-related requirements before student teaching or program completion.
Graduates are prepared for roles in K–12 education as licensed special education teachers in public and private schools, working with learners across the spectrum of abilities. Other direct pathways include positions as inclusion specialists, resource room teachers, behaviour interventionists, transition coordinators and literacy interventionists. With additional certification or graduate study, alumni may progress to roles such as school administrators, special education consultants, educational diagnosticians, school psychologists or speech‑language pathologists.
Outside formal certification pathways, graduates can also work in community agencies, non‑profit organisations, early intervention programmes, after‑school services, advocacy groups and educational technology companies focused on accessibility and adaptive learning supports.
Canisius combines a Jesuit liberal arts tradition with professional preparation, placing an emphasis on social justice, service and educating the whole person. The education programme benefits from small class sizes, close faculty mentorship and strong partnerships with school districts in the Buffalo region, providing a range of urban and suburban field placements.
Students gain hands‑on experience through multiple practicum placements and a semester of supervised student teaching, with guidance from experienced cooperating teachers and university supervisors. The programme also prepares candidates for state certification and supports students’ development of reflective practice, family engagement skills and culturally responsive instruction, equipping graduates to meet the needs of diverse learners and to be advocates for inclusive educational environments.
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