Mercy College

What you'll study

The curriculum combines foundations in education and disability studies with applied coursework and sustained clinical experience. Early courses examine typical and atypical child development, inclusive philosophies, and the legal and ethical framework that governs special education. Core modules commonly include assessment and measurement for special education, evidence-based instructional strategies for literacy and mathematics, behaviour analysis and positive behaviour support, curriculum adaptation and differentiation, assistive and augmentative technologies, and transition planning for secondary-age students.

Specialist topics may cover autism spectrum disorders, severe and multiple disabilities, communication disorders, and working with students with emotional and behavioural needs. Students also study collaboration and family engagement, co‑teaching models, progress monitoring, and Individualised Education Program (IEP) development and implementation.

The programme places strong emphasis on fieldwork: early supervised observations followed by progressively longer practicum placements in local schools, and culminating in a full-time student teaching internship in a Pre‑K, elementary, middle or high school special education setting. Coursework is designed to prepare students for the classroom and for any professional certification processes required by the state.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a high school diploma or recognised equivalent. Typical entry standards include a satisfactory secondary school record; many applicants also submit a personal statement describing their interest in special education and relevant experience. Where applicable, standardised test requirements follow Mercy College policy and may be optional.

Because the programme leads to classroom placements, admitted students must be able to meet clearance requirements for working with children. These requirements commonly include a background/criminal records check, proof of immunisations, and any health screenings required by placement partners. Before beginning clinical placements, students will be expected to demonstrate appropriate communication skills and professional dispositions as assessed by faculty.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared to work as certified special education teachers across the Pre‑K–12 range in public and private schools. Career paths include resource room teacher, inclusion teacher, self‑contained classroom teacher, behaviour interventionist, transition coordinator, and special education case manager. With additional credentials or graduate study, alumni may move into roles such as educational diagnostician, program coordinator, curriculum specialist, or school administration.

Other related employment options include roles in early intervention programmes, residential or community services for children with disabilities, non‑profit advocacy organisations, and private tutoring or consultancy focused on special educational needs. The programme also provides a foundation for postgraduate study in special education, applied behaviour analysis, or educational psychology.

Why study at Mercy College

Mercy College combines small class sizes and faculty with active school experience to give students personalised mentoring and realistic classroom preparation. The college has established partnerships with local school districts and community agencies, ensuring access to a range of practicum sites and diverse student populations for hands‑on learning.

Students benefit from a programme designed to integrate theory and practice, with structured field experiences that build from observation to full‑time student teaching. Support services such as academic advising, career services, and specialised resources for teacher candidates help students meet certification requirements and transition into the workforce. The college’s emphasis on inclusive practice, family collaboration and culturally responsive teaching equips graduates to support diverse learners in contemporary school settings.