Childhood/Special Education All Grades
Many of today’s elementary school classrooms are made up of diverse student groups including students with unique developmental and physical challenges. The study of both special education and childhood education will prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers in the inclusive school setting.
The program prepares you for teaching both Childhood Education and Childhood Special Education which covers students with disabilities. Upon completion, you will be qualified to teach at all grade levels and in high needs classroom settings. The curriculum emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach to meet the assessment and learning needs of a diverse range of childhood students.
You will learn how to acquire knowledge of each student, and promote student development and learning achievement regardless of the student’s learning abilities. Coursework is complemented by field learning opportunities to provide hands-on experience in teaching childhood students with disabilities, including emotional and behavioral disorders.
NYS Certification for All Grades Special Education
Canisius is the first institution in Western New York to offer the newest NYS certification in Special Education - the All Grades Special Education certificate. Candidates in the Special Education/Childhood Education Program will be prepared for two certifications: Childhood Education (Grades 1-6) and Special Education (Pre-kindergarten-Grade 12.)
What this Means:
- Candidates will have a special education certification that allows them to work in primary, elementary, middle and high schools in New York State.
- This program leads to a certification shortage area in NYS and in the US. Recently, NYS was ranked as one of the best states for teaching opportunities.
- This program helps students to qualify for the TEACH grant, which can help with tuition costs. Learn more about the TEACH grant.
- Candidates will be in field experiences every semester during their program.
Distinctions
The program teaches the definitions, causes, psychological and behavioral characteristics of disabilities as outlined in IDEA – the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act.
