Special Education

Major

The School of Education and Human Services

The Special Education program prepares students to support learners with diverse abilities and needs through inclusive, evidence-based instruction. Students develop skills in individualized learning, assessment, behavior support, and collaboration while learning how to create classrooms where every student can succeed.

Professor pointing at clipboard with two education students

Opportunities & Outcomes

The program emphasizes dignity, equity, and service. Through hands-on field experiences and guided student teaching, future educators gain the confidence and professional preparation needed to advocate for students and partner with families, schools, and communities.

Career Pathways

A Special Education degree prepares students for teaching, advocacy, and leadership roles that support learners with disabilities, as well as for graduate study.

Special Education Teaching

  • Special education teacher*
  • Inclusion or resource room teacher*
  • Co-teacher or intervention specialist*
  • Behavioral or learning support teacher*

Student Services & School Support

  • Individualized Education Program (IEP) coordinator*
  • Academic or behavioral intervention specialist
  • Student support or case management roles
  • Instructional aide or paraprofessional

Community, Family & Advocacy Roles

  • Disability services or advocacy specialist
  • Family support or transition coordinator
  • Nonprofit or community program staff
  • Vocational or life-skills program coordinator

Related Services & Support Fields

  • Applied behavior analysis (ABA) assistant*
  • Assistive technology or accessibility support roles
  • Educational or therapeutic program assistant
  • Youth or developmental services staff

Leadership & Advancement

  • Special education department leadership roles*
  • Instructional coach or curriculum specialist*
  • Education administration pathways (with graduate study)*

 

Graduate & Professional Pathways

  • Graduate study in special education or inclusive education
  • Educational leadership or administration programs
  • Counseling, social work, or related support fields*

*Licensure, certification, or graduate study requirements apply.

Programs of Study Offered

  • Bachelor of Science in Special Education
  • Special Education Basic Endorsement
  • Special Education Minor
  • Bachelor of Science in Special Education/Elementary Education, Dual Licensure
  • Teacher Licensure (Special and Secondary K-12)

Faculty Spotlight

Christina Priebe, EdD

Christina Priebe, EdD

Assistant Professor of Education, Director of Student Teaching

Bonaventure Program

Every QU student’s foundation for our liberal arts education, involving service learning, signature courses, writing, technological literacy. Program Requirements

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