University of Hawaii

What you'll study

The programme combines foundational coursework in special education with practical methods and supervised field experiences. You will study the history, laws and ethics that shape special education services; assessment and individualized planning; behaviour supports and classroom management; and differentiated instructional strategies for literacy, mathematics and across the curriculum.

• Foundations of Special Education: legislation, service delivery models, eligibility and placement considerations.
• Assessment and Evaluation: standardized and curriculum-based assessment, functional behavioural assessment, writing Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).
• Instructional Methods: inclusive classroom practices, adaptations and modifications, co-teaching models and Universal Design for Learning.
• Behaviour Intervention: positive behaviour supports, crisis prevention and social-emotional learning strategies.
• Assistive Technology and Accessibility: tools and technologies to support communication, access and independence.
• Culturally Responsive Practice: working with multilingual learners and incorporating Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander perspectives in instruction.
• Transition and Life Skills: planning for post-school outcomes, vocational skills and community-based instruction.
• Practicum and Student Teaching: progressive field placements in campus partner schools and community settings, culminating in supervised student teaching.

Entry requirements

Applicants must hold a recognized secondary school qualification and satisfy the University of Hawaii's general admission criteria. Typical programme-specific requirements include completion of specified general education prerequisites, a minimum cumulative GPA as set by the teacher education unit, and submission of a personal statement outlining interest in special education.

After initial coursework, students usually apply to the teacher education or licensure track, which may require letters of recommendation, an interview, and clearances for field placement such as criminal background checks and health screening (for example, TB clearance or immunisation records). International applicants should check additional documentation requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a range of roles in education and allied services. Common career destinations include:

• Special education teacher in elementary, middle or secondary schools (resource, self-contained or inclusive classrooms).
• Inclusion or co-teaching specialist working alongside general education staff.
• Behaviour interventionist, classroom support coordinator or paraprofessional supervisor.
• Transition coordinator, vocational rehabilitation associate or community-based support provider.
• Further study and licensure routes such as a Master of Education, specialised certification, or doctoral work leading to leadership roles in special education policy, assessment or research.

Why study at University of Hawaii

The University of Hawaii offers teacher preparation that reflects the state’s linguistic and cultural diversity and the realities of island communities. Students benefit from field placements across a range of public and private schools throughout the islands, giving experience with urban, rural and rural-island contexts.

Faculty bring expertise in special education research and practice, and the programme emphasises culturally responsive instruction with attention to Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander learners. Small cohort sizes for practicum and student teaching provide close mentorship, and the programme is structured to support progression towards state teacher licensure and employment across Hawaiʻi’s education system and related community services.