Slippery Rock University

What you'll study

The Special Education and Teaching degree combines foundations in general education with specialised coursework on assessment, intervention and instructional strategies for students with disabilities. The programme emphasises inclusive practice, differentiated instruction, behaviour management and collaboration with families and other professionals.

• Foundations of Education: courses in educational psychology, human development, and learning theory that underpin effective instruction.
• Special Education Core: study of laws and policy, history of special education, inclusive practices, characteristics of disabilities (such as learning disabilities, emotional/behavioural disorders, intellectual disabilities and autism spectrum disorders).
• Assessment and Intervention: diagnostic procedures, functional behaviour assessment, curriculum adaptation, transition planning and evidence‑based intervention strategies.
• Instructional Methods: planning and delivering differentiated lessons, universal design for learning (UDL), assistive technology and literacy and numeracy strategies for learners with diverse needs.
• Classroom Management and Collaboration: positive behaviour supports, co‑teaching models, family engagement and multidisciplinary teamwork.
• Practicum and Student Teaching: sequential field experiences in inclusive and specialised settings, culminating in an extended student teaching placement under mentor supervision.
• Electives and Specialisms: opportunities to take electives or minors in areas such as early childhood, behaviour intervention, or English language learners to broaden professional competency.

The programme balances theory, research methods and extensive hands‑on experience in local schools, preparing students for classroom readiness and state teacher licensure processes.

Entry requirements

Applicants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent with a solid academic record. Required documentation and expectations include:

• Academic transcripts: evidence of successful completion of secondary education with good performance in English and mathematics.
• Standardised tests: submission of standardised test scores may be optional or considered alongside other qualifications depending on admission routes.
• Prerequisite coursework: recommended or required introductory courses in psychology, child development or education for those entering from outside the field.
• Background checks and clearances: because of the extensive school placements, students must meet any criminal background checks, child abuse clearances and health requirements mandated by local school districts.
• Interview or writing sample: some applicants may be asked to attend an interview or submit a reflective statement demonstrating commitment to working with learners with disabilities.

Transfer students and those with prior college credit should consult the admissions team for evaluation of transfer credits and progression to professional education sequences.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for careers in K–12 education and allied settings. Common career pathways include:

• Special education teacher: working in self‑contained classrooms, resource rooms or inclusive general classrooms supporting students with mild to moderate disabilities.
• Intervention specialist or learning support teacher: providing targeted instruction and remedial support for students with academic difficulties.
• Behaviour specialist or classroom behaviour support: implementing positive behaviour interventions and supporting behaviour plans.
• Transition coordinator or life‑skills instructor: working with older students on transition planning, vocational skills and community integration.
• Educational diagnostician assistant or assessment technician: assisting with screening and progress monitoring under the supervision of certified professionals.
• Further study and roles in education leadership: many graduates pursue master’s degrees, specialisms (e.g. autism, early intervention) or certification to broaden career options in administration, curriculum development or higher education.

Why study at Slippery Rock University

Slippery Rock University offers a teacher education programme with a strong emphasis on practical school experience and community partnerships. The university’s education faculty are experienced practitioners and researchers who provide mentorship through field placements and student teaching in regional school districts.

• Hands‑on practicum: sequential fieldwork gives students early and sustained classroom exposure, including opportunities in inclusive settings and specialised programmes.
• Support for certification: curriculum is aligned with state teacher preparation requirements and provides advising to support certification and endorsement pathways.
• Collaborative learning environment: small cohort sizes in professional education courses enable close faculty supervision and peer collaboration.
• Community connections: partnerships with local schools, agencies and clinics support internships, research projects and employment connections after graduation.

Students graduating from Slippery Rock’s Special Education and Teaching programme leave with the pedagogical knowledge, practical experience and professional supports needed to begin a career supporting diverse learners in school settings.