Program in Special Education

Special education programs are offered in K-6 and 7-12 Instructional Strategist I: Mild/Moderate, and K-12 Instructional Strategist II: BD/LD.  These programs are designed to prepare graduates for positions in public schools, local and state education agencies, clinical settings, and institutions of higher education.  All teacher licensure/certification programs are approved by the Iowa Department of Education.

Master of Arts

The M.A. program in special education prepares individuals to deliver appropriate levels of service to students with disabilities at the elementary and secondary levels in either public or private settings.  Applicants may request admission for the purpose of obtaining special education licensure without also completing an M.A. degree.  Students who do not seek licensure may be admitted selectively to the M.A. program. 

The following program specializations are available: 

• K-6 Strategist I: Mild/Moderate (Online Program)
• 7-12 Strategist I: Mild/Moderate
• Instructional Strategist II: Behavior Disorders/Learning Disabilities (K-12).

Doctor of Philosophy

The Ph.D. program in special education prepares students for positions in higher education research and teaching, and/or curriculum, supervisory, research, and administrative positions in state and local education agencies.  The program permits students to study and practice extensively in their area of interest in special education.

Education Specialist in Special Education Administration

The Ed.S. in special education administration is offered jointly with the Department of Educational Policy and Leadership Studies.  Its primary objective is to provide sufficient training and experience to enable graduates to obtain entry-level positions in administration.  The career focus of the program is on middle management positions such as supervisors and assistant directors.  Successful completion of the program qualifies students for licensure in Iowa to serve as directors of special education (State of Iowa Endorsement 239) and for licensure in general school administration (State of Iowa Endorsement 171).

Admission Requirements