Special Education – K-12

Department: Education
Delivery Method: On-Campus, Online
Type: Minor
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Overview

The University of Wisconsin-Superior was founded as a teacher education college in 1893. That strong heritage of innovation and quality has guided our education programs for more than a century. Today, UW-Superior is still regarded as a frontrunner in PK-12 education programs. Our graduates are leaders in their field, making a lasting difference in students’ lives. The need for dedicated and highly skilled educators has never been greater; and with a degree from UW-Superior, opportunities abound.

If you are majoring in Education and are interested in better understanding the needs of students with learning differences and how to best meet those needs in the classroom, this minor will be a great fit for you. Coursework within this major includes inclusive management strategies, family and culture, practicum in special education, methods in special education, the exceptional child, interventions/methods in services in special education, and individual educational assessment and IEP development.

This minor is available online and on campus.

What You’ll Learn

Through a Special Education minor, you will learn best-practice educational techniques for students who have a wide range of learning, mental, emotional and physical disabilities. You’ll learn how to adapt general education lessons and teach various subjects, such as reading, writing and math to help students with disabilities reach their highest educational potential. You will also learn instructional methods for teaching basic skills, such as literacy and communication techniques, to students with disabilities.

Unique Opportunities

  • Qualified special education teachers are in high demand. The vast majority of our graduates find teaching jobs upon graduation, and many have multiple opportunities to choose from.
  • In addition to opportunities in grades K-12 throughout your coursework, you will complete a full semester of student teaching at the end of your degree and licensure program. Our Field Experience Coordinator will help you find placements that fit your individual goals in locations that work for you.
  • Our programs are designed to align with Wisconsin state licensure requirements. However, many students apply for licenses in other states, such as Minnesota and Michigan. We encourage you to check with your state’s Department of Education to determine if there are additional requirements.
  • Unlike many universities, our education programs do not have an enrollment cap, meaning there is no enrollment limit for students who meet admissions guidelines.

I have no complaints about UW-Superior’s special education program. I have been an online student for most of my college career here and still feel confident in my career path. The faculty, staff and community, on-and-off campus, are inviting and helpful.

Amanda Hakamaki, Elementary Education, Special Education

Licensure

A Special Education minor, when paired with an Elementary Education major, an Instruction minor and student teaching residency, leads to licensure in the State of Wisconsin in cross-categorical special education, allowing individuals to teach students with a variety of disabilities. 

The University of Wisconsin-Superior no longer requires the Praxis assessment for degree licensure. As you are preparing to become a licensed educator in Wisconsin, you will partner with your advisor to select the content area assessment that you prefer. Choose from two options:

  • Content area GPA – based on specific courses embedded in curriculum and designated course assessments
  • Passing score on an appropriate content area DPI-approved exam

This license requires candidates to complete and pass approved pedagogical knowledge assessments, the Wisconsin Foundations of Reading Test or assessment, and content area knowledge assessment.

This program meets Wisconsin state educator licensure requirements and satisfies many other states’ and countries’ requirements, as well. View a complete list and more information here.

Licensure for Degree Holders

If you currently hold a degree and are interested in teaching, UW-Superior offers licensure programs that apply your prior coursework.

Ready to get started?

Applying to UW-Superior is easy and free for undergraduate students. Once your application is submitted, you’ll hear from us within just a few days. We’re here to help you every step of the way with any questions you may have, so why wait? Start your application today.  

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