Special Education Degree | Northern State University in South Dakota

Dream of making a difference in the classroom? For over 100 years, Northern State University has been shaping passionate, skilled educators ready to inspire the next generation. Our Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP)-accredited teacher preparation programs provide you with high-quality education and training that meets national standards. If you're ready to become a teacher, there's no better place—at Northern, we ARE teacher education!

Our special education program at Northern State University prepares you to become a dedicated, impactful educator. Emphasizing personalized teaching strategies and tailored interventions, we provide the resources to help students with diverse abilities thrive. Through a blend of expert guidance and practical experience, you’ll develop the expertise needed to create meaningful change for learners with varying needs, both in and beyond the classroom.

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Offered On Campus

120 Credit Hours

Estimated Time to Complete: Four Years

Prepare to lead the next generation of learners

As a special education major at Northern State University, you'll benefit from direct guidance from committed faculty and gain valuable experience working with students in local schools. Our program is designed to prepare you for the PRAXIS exams, ensuring that you graduate fully certified to teach K-12 students with diverse learning needs. From early field experiences to student teaching, our immersive curriculum equips you with the expertise and confidence to create inclusive, supportive learning environments for every student you’ll serve.

Sample Coursework

Teaching Students with Exceptionalities

Educational Psychology

Behavior Management of Exceptional Children

K-12 Curriculum and Instructional Strategies

Classroom Technology

Identification and Assessment in Special Ed

Inclusive Methods for Diverse Learners

Family Systems and Professional Collaboration

Related Minors

Early Childhood Education

English as a New Language

E-Learning

Elementary Reading

Mathematics in Elementary Education

Music for Elementary Education

Coaching

Physical Education

Similar Programs

Elementary Education

Secondary Education

Mathematics Education

Music Education

Physical Education

Art Education

Biology Education

History Education

Field Experiences

In NSU’s teacher preparation program, you’ll jump into real classroom experiences from your first year, turning your learning into action right away. NSU's Office of Field Experiences will set up your practicum and teaching placements within the Aberdeen community and surrounding region, where you’ll be mentored by an experienced classroom teacher every step of the way. Plus, with personalized academic advising and career planning from our Office of Career Services, you'll be fully prepared to take the next steps in your journey as an educator.

Scholarships for Special Education Majors

At NSU, we are committed to supporting future educators through a variety of scholarship opportunities for special education students. You may qualify for the TEACH Grant, designed for those pursuing teaching in high-need fields or low-income areas, or the Critical Needs Scholarship, which addresses the demand for teachers in shortage areas. These are stackable with NSU’s guaranteed WolfPACT Unleashed scholarship program, allowing you to maximize your financial aid and reduce the cost of your education. You may also qualify for additional School of Education scholarships, providing even more support as you prepare for your teaching career.