Program Overview

Special Educator License Program

The Special Educator License program is designed to teach students the fundamentals of a comprehensive special education program, how to implement that in their classroom, and provide them with the practice to develop and hone their skills through field experiences.

Program Overview

Twenty-first-century schools are diverse and inclusive communities. Students with special needs receive support for their educational and career goals just like their peers. As a special education teacher, students will present a range of support needs and will work with their other teachers, counselors, and families to create their Individualized Education Plans.

Program Benefits

• Learn in an experiential learning environment through discussion, practice, and clinical field experiences
• Learn to advocate for the importance of equity and inclusion for all students
• Benefit from peers' knowledge and experience in a unique cohort model
• Experience incredible value: Learn from seasoned teachers who have scholarly expertise and advanced degrees—and do so in convenient locations and at an accessible price
• Benefit from partnerships with local school districts and community agencies; these collaborations support preservice teacher candidates and recent graduates

Program Specifics

• Two-year program of study (64 credits) leads to a Preliminary Teaching License. Students can choose to complete master's degree requirements at the same time or after program completion to earn a master's degree in special education.
• Gain valuable hands-on experience through three collaborative field experiences and full-time student teaching
• Culminate studies with a student teaching experience in which students will assume the wide range of roles and responsibilities of the special education teacher
• Focus on six areas: scaffolding instruction, collaboration and teaming, individualization, data-based decision-making, inclusion and diversity, and leadership and advocacy

Degree Details

• Master's Degree (M): 73 total credits, starts in the summer, and is delivered in person
• Licensure (Graduate): 64 total credits, starts in the summer, and is delivered in person

School and Department

The program is offered through the College of Education, Department of Educator Licensure.

Accreditation

The Special Educator License is accredited by the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP).

Career Opportunities

Special Educator License graduates are well-prepared to work with a wide range of students in a variety of instructional settings. Potential roles include:

• Self-contained special education classroom teacher
• Learning specialist/resource room classroom teacher
• Inclusive/co-teaching roles
• Transition specialists

Why Choose PSU?

PSU's Special Educator License program is part of the largest Department of Special Education in Oregon. The program welcomes collaboration and values community-based partnerships to support children, youth, families, school districts, and agencies throughout the state. The committed faculty and their strong partnerships with community agencies help students explore a wide range of expertise in special education.