Northern Arizona University

What you'll study

The programme combines foundations in general education with specialised coursework and practicum experiences focused on learners with mild-to-moderate and more significant disabilities. You will study theories of child and adolescent development, inclusive instructional design, assessment and progress monitoring, positive behaviour supports, and adaptations for academic content areas such as literacy and mathematics.

• Foundations of education and human development – child and adolescent development, learning theory, and culturally responsive practice.
• Special education core – characteristics of disabilities, legal and ethical issues, Individualised Education Programme (IEP) development, and family engagement.
• Instructional strategies – differentiated instruction, curriculum adaptation, evidence-based reading and math interventions, and assistive technology.
• Behaviour and classroom management – functional behaviour assessment, positive behaviour interventions and supports (PBIS), and crisis prevention approaches.
• Assessment and data-based decision making – informal and formal assessment tools, progress monitoring, and the use of data to guide instruction.
• Practicum and student teaching – progressive field placements in inclusive and specialised settings culminating in a supervised student teaching semester in local partner schools.

Coursework is designed to meet educator preparation requirements and is frequently updated to reflect evidence-based practice. Students complete a sequence of supervised field experiences in diverse school settings to develop applied skills in assessment, instruction and collaboration with families and multidisciplinary teams.

Entry requirements

Applicants must meet Northern Arizona University’s undergraduate admission standards and the requirements of the Teacher Education Program. Typical expectations include a high school diploma or recognised equivalent and satisfactory academic preparation in core subjects. Admission to the professional education sequence commonly requires meeting minimum university GPA thresholds and successful completion of prerequisite coursework.

Because placements in local schools are an integral part of the programme, accepted candidates must satisfy non-academic requirements before practicum, which commonly include a criminal background check/fingerprinting, evidence of required immunisations or health screening, and any state-mandated clearances. Candidates should also be prepared to complete a basic skills or admissions assessment if required by the university or state educator licensing board.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for certification and employment as special education teachers in public and private schools, typically working with students across early childhood and K–12 age ranges. Career pathways include:

• Special education classroom teacher (self-contained or inclusion support)
• Resource or support teacher providing pull-out interventions and co-teaching
• Behaviour interventionist or classroom behaviour coach
• Transition coordinator, working on post-school planning and vocational supports
• Paraeducator supervisor, curriculum specialist or instructional coach with further experience
• Roles in community agencies, non-profit organisations, or early intervention services

With additional graduate study or state certification, graduates may move into specialised roles such as educational diagnostician, program specialist, district-level coordinator, or higher education instructor. The degree also provides a foundation for master’s level programmes in special education, school psychology, or educational leadership.

Why study at Northern Arizona University

Northern Arizona University offers a teacher preparation programme with strong links to public schools across urban, suburban and rural communities, giving students experience with diverse learner populations. The programme emphasises hands-on clinical practice, collaboration with experienced PK–12 partners, and faculty who bring practitioner knowledge and research-based strategies to coursework.

Students benefit from cohort-style sequences that support professional growth, opportunities for service-learning and community-based placements, and structured mentorship during student teaching. The programme aligns with the pathways required for state teacher certification, helping graduates transition directly into classroom roles while fostering inclusive, culturally responsive approaches to special education.