Program Overview

Special Education (B.S.)

The Special Education major is designed to develop the skills and competencies required of effective K-12 special education teachers. Special education teachers work with students who have a wide range of intellectual, physical, sensory, emotional, and mental abilities, as well as neurodivergent students.

Program Overview

This program will be a good fit for individuals who:

• Are compassionate, patient, and creative.
• Want to help youths with special needs.
• Have strong leadership, decision-making, and problem-solving skills.
• Are willing to work hard to overcome challenges.
• Have strong communication skills.

Career Opportunities

Possible career opportunities with this degree include:

• Special education resource room teacher
• Special education teacher
• Consultant
• Youth development specialist
• Director of child care
• Trainer of professionals who work with those with special needs
• School or program specialist
• Case manager
• Advocate for individuals with disabilities, families, and school districts

Internship Opportunities

Internship opportunities are available in:

• Schools (public and private)

Clubs and Organizations

Extracurricular clubs available for participation include:

• Association for the Education of Young Children East Central Student Chapter
• South Dakota Education Association Student Chapter

Suggested Certificates, Dual Majors, and Minors

• Suggested Certificates:
  • Lobbying and Government Advocacy Certificate (Undergraduate)
  • Basic Oceti Sakowin Language Certificate (Undergraduate)
  • Public Service Certificate (Undergraduate)
• Suggested Minors:
  • Early Childhood Education Minor
  • Rehabilitation Services Minor
  • Psychology Minor
• Suggested Dual Majors:
  • Elementary Education (B.S.)

Related Programs

You may also be interested in:

• Psychology (B.A./B.S.) Teaching Specialization
• Sociology (B.S.) Teaching Specialization
• Human Development and Family Science (B.S.)
• Elementary Education (B.S.)
• Early Childhood Education Birth to Grade 3 (B.S.)
• Studio Art (B.F.A.) Art Education Specialization