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Special Education Degree

Special Education Degree for Grades (K-12)

Special Education Degree Program

Not all students learn in the same way. That’s why special education teachers are vital to schools. With a Special Education degree for grades K-12, you’ll be qualified to teach exceptional students of all ages. By studying behaviors and how these students learn, you’ll have a better understanding of them and will be prepared to become a special education teacher. With a long-standing, excellent reputation for our education program, Wayne State is the perfect place to begin your career in special education.

Sample Program of Study

special education degree fact sheet

 

 


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Percent of recent WSC graduates employed or in graduate school
based on the most recent graduate survey

Fast Facts

Degrees offered: B.A. or B.S. in Special Education (PK-12)


Hours required: 120 total hours for endorsement
At least 120 hours are required for graduation from Wayne State College.


Recommended pairings: English as a Second Language (PK-12), Reading and Writing (PK-6), Reading and Writing (7-12)


School: Education and Behavioral Sciences


Department: Educational Foundations and Leadership


Accreditation: Council of Accreditation for Educator Preparation (CAEP), Nebraska Department of Education


Licensing and Certification: Wayne State academic programs are designed to prepare students for licensure or certification in Nebraska. If you plan to pursue licensure or certification in a state other than Nebraska, please check that state's licensing board to determine their licensing requirements. Authorization may be required from them prior to beginning a clinical or field experience in that state. Learn more.

Nationally Ranked Programs

Wayne State is nationally ranked and recognized for academic excellence, incredible value, successful graduates, and innovative learning.

Most Affordable College in Nebraska, 2022

No. 1 in Nebraska

Most Affordable College in Nebraska, 2022

College Affordability Guide

Colleges of Distinction, 2023

Recognized for Excellence

Best Colleges of Distinction, 2022-23

Colleges of Distinction

Most Focused Special Education Degree, 2019 - College Factual

No. 23 in the U.S.; Top 10%

Most Focused Special Education Degree Program, 2019

College Factual

Scholarships and Aid

In addition to having the region’s most affordable tuition, we offer thousands of dollars in scholarships every year.  Learn more about scholarships and financial aid for your Special Education degree.
 

Our Focus is Results

Wayne State has the keys to your success and offers just what you need to become well prepared for the real world with your Special Education degree.

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Skills Learned

  • Inclusive learning strategies
  • Educational provisions for exceptional learners
  • Understanding special education laws
  • Engaging all learners in various classroom settings
  • Monitoring and assessment
  • Social, emotional, and behavior development K-12
  • Consulting and collaborating
  • Teaching intermediate reading
  • Human development and cognition
  • Teaching and instruction methods
  • Speech pathology
  • Classroom management
  • Lesson plan development

 

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Possible Careers

  • Elementary school teacher
  • Middle school teacher
  • High school teacher
  • Special education teacher
  • Learning coach
  • After-school program manager
  • Youth worker
  • In-home tutor
  • Behavioral specialist
  • Guidance counselor
  • Educational consultant
  • Youth worker

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Employers

  • Elementary schools
  • Middle schools
  • High schools
  • Community programs
  • Government programs
  • Non-profit organizations
  • Education / learning centers
  • Special education centers
  • Rehabilitation centers
  • Disability and behavioral health centers
  • Distance-learning centers

 

Learn From the Best

Our faculty are accomplished. Several are highly regarded as experts and have been recognized with notable honors and awards. And with a low student-to-faculty ratio, you'll be sure to receive an excellent education in the Special Education degree program.

Outside the Classroom

At Wayne State College, you’ll have opportunities to enhance your Special Education degree by participating in clubs, organizations, internships, and more.

WSC Service Learning

Service-Learning

Make a difference in the community while learning skills you can apply toward your future career. Wayne State’s Service-Learning program has received national awards in recognition of outstanding community service, with more than 400 students participating in Service-Learning projects each semester.

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Opportunities

student teaching for special education degree

Clinical Practice

Before graduating with your Special Education degree, you will complete a semester of clinical practice in a school district chosen with the help of your advisor. During this semester, you will work closely with an experienced teacher to gain classroom experience. Internships are not required as part of this program; however, Career Services is available to help students find employment opportunities.

Take the Next Step

Take the Next Step