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Special Education

Learn with Minot State
Minot State University is a leader in the preparation of special education professionals. We will provide you with:

  • A robust training program that reflects the latest trends in the field of special education
  • Individualized student support from supportive faculty, practicum supervisors, and cooperating teachers in the schools
  • Coursework grounded in both theory and evidence-based teaching strategies
  • Exemplary advising from faculty so you are prepared and graduate in a
    timely manner

Paraprofessional to Teacher Pathway (PTP)
Are you a special education paraprofessional eager to do even more to support the success of students with
disabilities? You can become a special education teacher by earning your bachelor’s degree with Minot State while continuing to work in your current position. Ideal candidates need to be currently working as a special education paraprofessional and have the support of their school administrators and special education teacher.

Features of PTP include:

  • Flexible delivery. Courses, seminars, and interaction with our expert faculty will be offered through accessible distance (no on-campus classes) technology.
  • Learn while you earn. Candidates will continue working in their paraprofessional position while completing the program.
  • Cohort model and supports. Candidates will move through the program as a group providing consistency and peer support. Regular coaching sessions from faculty ensure
    candidates on track for success.
  • K–12 partnerships. Candidates will receive on the job mentoring and modeling from their administrators and special education teachers.

Preparing to teach
The Bachelor of Science in Education (BSEd) with a major in special education is an initial licensure program that prepares you to work with children and youth with disabilities in grades PreK–12. Our faculty will prepare you to provide a variety of educational options based on individual needs and to design curriculum based on the whole child in the context of their individual learning profile, family, and culture.

Because the general classroom should be the first placement option for students with disabilities, our program emphasizes collaborative skills, adaptive techniques, and assistive technologies that facilitate the successful integration of students with diverse learning needs.

Career outlook
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, special education teachers earn a median pay of $62,950 per year.

Offered: On campus, online paraprofessional to teacher pathway (PTP)

Be inspired . . . earn your special education degree

Opportunities
At Minot State, we have a 100% placement rate for our SPED graduates.
Career information
Careers in special education are the fastest growth in education with a median pay of $59,000.
Employment outlook
Careers in special education are both exciting and rewarding! Teaching students with special needs is a great way to help every student reach their potential. There is a strong need for certified special education teachers in the public schools in North Dakota and throughout the nation. There are more jobs than teachers so choose where you’d like to teach.

Additional options
For those students pursuing other majors who wish to gain knowledge and skills in special education, a special education minor and concentration is available. We also offer a minor in deaf and hard of hearing education.

 

Program options (Catalog Links)


Department website


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Accreditation
Teacher education programs at Minot State University are accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Education Preparation (CAEP). Minot State is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (hlcommission.org), a regional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

Licensure
All Minot State programs fulfill the requirements for licensure in the state of North Dakota. If you are seeking a professional license in a state other than North Dakota, learn more about program disclosures and licensure requirements at MinotStateU.edu/licensure.

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