Program Overview

Undergraduate Degree in Special Education Program

The undergraduate program is designed to prepare students for licensure in special education. Students receive training in a broad-based curriculum appropriate for teaching and other career options related to working with individuals with disabilities. In addition to special education coursework, students complete an academic teaching field. Undergraduate majors in Special Education obtain dual licensure in special and general education (elementary or secondary).

Program Details

The Bachelors in Special Education program is advised through the NMSU's Center for Academic Advising and Student Support. Students who have been admitted to the Teacher Education Program are advised by Dr. Margo M. Trevino-Torres in the College of HEST Undergraduate Resource Center/Teacher Education Program Advising.

Degree Plans

• SPED-E ED
• SPED S ED General Science
• SPED S ED Social Studies
• SPED S ED SMAT
• SPED S ED Language ARTS

Program Structure

During the first two years of the B.S. program, students concentrate on their general education requirements while also taking elementary education classes. This professional education component acquaints students with the psychological, social, cultural, developmental, and cognitive aspects of K-8 education. Students also begin to take field experience courses with child study requirements.

Advanced Courses

Upon acceptance into the College of HEST Teacher Education Program (TEP), students take courses in elementary including integrated methods courses in the subject areas of math, science, reading, language arts, fine arts, and social studies; school and community collaboration; and advanced assessment. During these final two years of the program, students' knowledge is developed and skills are practiced through extensive field experiences where students act in the role of teaching assistants.

Student Teaching

In the final semester of the program, students apply to student teach for 15 weeks. Upon completion of the BA program and passage of the New Mexico Teachers Assessment, students are eligible to apply for state licensure.

Accelerated Masters Degree

The Special Education Program offers a new accelerated masters degree in Special Education for undergraduate students. Students graduating from the five-year program will be eligible for a license in elementary education and special education. Graduates will also be eligible for TESOL and bilingual endorsements.

International Student Teaching Program

The program also offers an International Student Teaching Program, providing students with the opportunity to gain teaching experience abroad.

School of Teacher Preparation, Administration, and Leadership

The School of Teacher Preparation, Administration, and Leadership is located at New Mexico State University, College of HEST, MSC 3TPAL, P.O. Box 30001, Las Cruces, New Mexico.