Semester 1

1. Foundations of Special Education. This course provides an overview of the history, philosophy, and legal foundations of special education. Students will examine the evolution of special education policies and practices, as well as the roles and responsibilities of special education teachers. They will also explore the various exceptionalities and disabilities that students may experience, and the impact these have on the learning process.
2. Child and Adolescent Development in Special Education. This course focuses on the physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development of children and adolescents with special needs. Students will learn about the unique developmental trajectories of individuals with disabilities, and how these impact learning, behavior, and social interactions. They will also explore the role of family, culture, and environment in shaping the development of students with special needs.
3. Inclusive Classroom Practices. In this course, students will learn strategies for creating inclusive learning environments that support the diverse needs of all students, including those with disabilities. They will explore evidence-based instructional approaches, such as universal design for learning, differentiated instruction, and collaborative teaching models. Students will also develop skills in adapting curriculum, materials, and assessments to meet the individual needs of students with special needs.
4. Assistive and Instructional Technology. This course introduces students to the various assistive and instructional technologies available for supporting students with special needs. They will learn how to select, implement, and evaluate the effectiveness of technology-based interventions, such as augmentative and alternative communication devices, adaptive software, and educational apps. Students will also explore the role of technology in promoting independence, accessibility, and engagement for students with diverse learning needs.
5. Behavior Management in Special Education. In this course, students will learn evidence-based strategies for effectively managing student behavior in special education settings. They will explore the principles of positive behavior support, functional behavioral assessment, and the development of individualized behavior intervention plans. Students will also learn how to collaborate with families, related service providers, and school-based teams to address challenging behaviors and promote positive social-emotional development.
6. Collaboration and Consultation in Special Education. This course focuses on the importance of collaboration and consultation in special education. Students will learn how to effectively communicate and work with a variety of stakeholders, including parents, general education teachers, related service providers, and community agencies. They will also explore strategies for participating in the development and implementation of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and other educational plans.
7. Assessment and Evaluation in Special Education. In this course, students will learn about the principles and practices of assessment and evaluation in special education. They will explore a range of formal and informal assessment tools, including standardized tests, curriculum-based measures, and performance-based assessments. Students will also learn how to interpret assessment data, identify student strengths and needs, and use this information to inform instructional planning and decision-making.
8. Practicum I: Observation and Reflection. This practicum experience provides students with the opportunity to observe and reflect on the practices of experienced special education teachers. Students will spend time in a variety of special education settings, such as resource rooms, self-contained classrooms, and inclusive general education classrooms. They will observe instructional strategies, behavior management techniques, and collaborative practices, and engage in reflective discussions to deepen their understanding of the special education teaching profession.

Semester 2

1. Instructional Strategies for Students with Mild to Moderate Disabilities. This course focuses on evidence-based instructional strategies for supporting students with mild to moderate disabilities, such as learning disabilities, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, and emotional/behavioral disorders. Students will explore effective teaching methods in core academic areas, including reading, writing, mathematics, and content-area subjects. They will also learn how to adapt and differentiate instruction to meet the unique needs of individual students.
2. Instructional Strategies for Students with Severe and Multiple Disabilities. In this course, students will learn about the unique educational needs of individuals with severe and multiple disabilities, including intellectual disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, and physical/sensory impairments. They will explore specialized instructional approaches, such as functional academics, life skills training, and augmentative and alternative communication. Students will also learn how to collaborate with related service providers and implement individualized, student-centered programs.
3. Transition Planning and Services. This course focuses on the principles and practices of transition planning for students with special needs. Students will learn how to develop and implement comprehensive transition plans that address post-secondary education, employment, independent living, and community participation. They will also explore strategies for collaborating with families, community agencies, and other stakeholders to ensure a seamless transition from school to adult life.
4. Inclusive Literacy Instruction. In this course, students will learn how to design and implement inclusive literacy instruction for students with special needs. They will explore research-based strategies for teaching reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills, with a focus on accommodating diverse learning styles and abilities. Students will also learn how to integrate assistive technology and differentiated instructional approaches to support the literacy development of students with a wide range of exceptionalities.
5. Inclusive Mathematics Instruction. This course focuses on effective instructional strategies for teaching mathematics to students with special needs in inclusive settings. Students will learn how to adapt and differentiate math instruction, incorporate manipulatives and visual aids, and address common math-related learning challenges. They will also explore the use of technology, such as educational software and adaptive devices, to support the development of mathematical skills and concepts.
6. Inclusive Science and Social Studies Instruction. In this course, students will learn how to design and implement inclusive instruction in the content areas of science and social studies. They will explore strategies for making these subjects accessible and engaging for students with diverse learning needs, including the use of hands-on activities, visual representations, and technology-based resources. Students will also learn how to adapt curriculum, materials, and assessments to support the academic and social-emotional development of students with special needs.
7. Collaborative Teaching and Co-Teaching Models. This course focuses on the principles and practices of collaborative teaching and co-teaching in special education. Students will learn how to effectively partner with general education teachers, related service providers, and other professionals to deliver high-quality, integrated instruction. They will explore various co-teaching models, such as one teach-one assist, station teaching, and team teaching, and develop skills in planning, implementing, and evaluating co-taught lessons.
8. Practicum II: Instructional Planning and Implementation. In this practicum experience, students will have the opportunity to plan and implement instructional lessons for students with special needs. They will work closely with experienced special education teachers to develop and deliver evidence-based lessons, incorporating strategies for differentiation, accommodations, and the use of assistive technology. Stude

Semester 3

1. Inclusive Behavior Intervention and Support. This course builds on the Behavior Management in Special Education course from Semester 1, focusing on the development and implementation of comprehensive behavior intervention plans for students with special needs. Students will learn how to conduct functional behavioral assessments, design positive behavior support strategies, and collaborate with families and school-based teams to address challenging behaviors in inclusive settings.
2. Inclusive Curriculum Design and Adaptation. In this course, students will learn how to design and adapt curriculum to meet the diverse needs of students with special needs in inclusive classrooms. They will explore principles of universal design for learning, differentiated instruction, and the integration of assistive technology. Students will also learn how to align curriculum with state standards and individualized education program (IEP) goals, ensuring that all students have access to rigorous, grade-level content.
3. Inclusive Assessment and Progress Monitoring. This course focuses on the principles and practices of inclusive assessment and progress monitoring for students with special needs. Students will learn how to select, administer, and interpret a variety of formal and informal assessment tools, including performance-based assessments and curriculum-based measures. They will also explore strategies for using assessment data to inform instructional planning, monitor student progress, and make data-driven decisions to support student learning.
4. Inclusive Classroom Management and Positive Behavior Support. In this course, students will delve deeper into the principles and practices of positive behavior support in inclusive settings. They will learn how to create classroom environments that promote social-emotional learning, self-regulation, and prosocial behaviors. Students will also explore strategies for collaborating with families, related service providers, and school-based teams to implement school-wide positive behavior intervention and support (PBIS) systems.
5. Inclusive Instructional Technology and Assistive Technology. This course builds on the Assistive and Instructional Technology course from Semester 1, focusing on the integration of technology to support the learning and independence of students with special needs in inclusive classrooms. Students will explore a wide range of assistive and instructional technologies, including augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices, adaptive software, and educational apps. They will also learn how to evaluate, select, and implement technology-based interventions to enhance student engagement, participation, and academic achievement.
6. Inclusive Transition Planning and Services. In this course, students will deepen their understanding of the transition planning process for students with special needs. They will explore evidence-based practices for supporting students' post-secondary goals in the areas of education, employment, independent living, and community participation. Students will also learn how to collaborate with families, community agencies, and other stakeholders to ensure a seamless and comprehensive transition process.
7. Inclusive Collaboration and Consultation. This course builds on the Collaboration and Consultation in Special Education course from Semester 1, focusing on advanced strategies for effective collaboration and consultation in inclusive settings. Students will learn how to facilitate team meetings, communicate effectively with families and other professionals, and engage in problem-solving to address complex educational and social-emotional needs of students with special needs.
8. Practicum III: Comprehensive Case Study. In this culminating practicum experience, students will complete a comprehensive case study of a student with special needs. They will engage in in-depth assessment, instructional planning, and progress monitoring, while also collaborating with families, related service providers, and school-based teams. Students will use this experience to demonstrate their mastery of the knowledge and skills acquired throughout the program and prepare for their future roles as special education teachers.

Semester 4

1. Inclusive Instructional Leadership. This course focuses on the development of instructional leadership skills for special education teachers. Students will learn how to mentor and coach other educators, facilitate professional development, and advocate for inclusive practices at the school and district levels. They will also explore strategies for collaborating with administrators, general education teachers, and related service providers to promote a culture of inclusion and continuous improvement.
2. Inclusive Curriculum Alignment and Mapping. In this course, students will learn how to align curriculum and instruction for students with special needs to state and national standards. They will explore strategies for mapping curriculum across grade levels and subject areas, ensuring a coherent and comprehensive educational program. Students will also learn how to collaborate with general education teachers and related service providers to ensure that the curriculum is accessible, engaging, and appropriately challenging for all learners.
3. Inclusive Educational Policy and Advocacy. This course examines the legal and policy frameworks that govern special education, including the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Students will learn how to interpret and apply these policies to ensure the rights and protections of students with special needs. They will also explore strategies for advocating for inclusive practices and equitable educational opportunities at the school, district, and community levels.
4. Inclusive Classroom-Based Action Research. In this course, students will design and implement an action research project focused on a specific challenge or area of improvement in their inclusive classrooms. They will learn how to identify research questions, collect and analyze data, and use their findings to inform instructional decision-making and enhance student outcomes. Students will also engage in collaborative discussions and presentations to share their research with their peers and the broader educational community.
5. Inclusive Professional Development and Reflective Practice. This course emphasizes the importance of ongoing professional development and reflective practice for special education teachers. Students will explore a variety of professional learning opportunities, such as workshops, conferences, and online resources, and develop a personalized professional development plan. They will also engage in regular self-reflection, peer feedback, and collaborative problem-solving to continuously improve their teaching practice and support the success of all students in inclusive settings.
6. Inclusive Student Teaching and Seminar. In this culminating experience, students will complete a full-time, supervised student teaching placement in an inclusive classroom setting. They will assume full responsibility for planning, delivering, and assessing instruction, while also collaborating with general education teachers, related service providers, and families. Students will participate in a weekly seminar to engage in reflection, discussion, and problem-solving related to their student teaching experiences.
7. Inclusive Capstone Project. As the final component of the program, students will complete a comprehensive capstone project that integrates the knowledge and skills they have acquired throughout their studies. This project may involve the development of a curriculum unit, the creation of an educational resource, or the implementation of an action research study focused on inclusive practices. Students will present their capstone projects to faculty, peers, and other stakeholders, demonstrating their mastery of the program's learning outcomes.
8. Preparation for Certification and Licensure. In this course, students will engage in comprehensive review and preparation activities to ensure they are ready to successfully pass any required certification or licensure exams for special education teachers. They will review content, practice test-taking strategies, and receive guidance on the application and interview process for securing employment in the field of special education.