Tennessee Technological University

What you'll study

The programme blends general education, core professional studies and specialised courses in exceptional education to prepare students for classroom teaching and licensure. Early semesters cover foundations of education, child and adolescent development, educational psychology and introductory coursework in special education. Core special education modules typically include assessment and diagnosis of learning differences, instructional methods for students with mild to moderate disabilities, strategies for severe and multiple disabilities, individualised education program (IEP) development, behaviour assessment and positive behaviour support, transition planning and vocational supports, and assistive and instructional technology for learners with disabilities.

Training emphasises differentiated instruction, inclusion and collaboration with families and allied professionals. The programme also includes progressive field experiences — from observation and supported practicum to longer, supervised student teaching placements in partner schools — where students apply assessment, planning and classroom management skills with diverse learners.

• Foundations of Special Education
• Assessment and Evaluation in Special Education
• Instructional Strategies for Mild/Moderate Disabilities
• Education of Students with Severe and Multiple Disabilities
• Behaviour Management and Positive Behaviour Supports
• Assistive Technology and Accessible Instruction
• Family and Community Collaboration
• Transition Planning and Vocational Supports
• Practicum and Student Teaching Placements

Entry requirements

Applicants need a high school diploma or equivalent. Competitive admission typically requires a satisfactory cumulative GPA and completion of prerequisite coursework such as introductory psychology and college-level English and mathematics. Admission to the teacher education sequence may be conditional on completion of an initial set of professional courses, a background check, health screening (for example immunisation/TB requirements where applicable), and demonstration of basic skills and professional dispositions.

Because teacher licensure is regulated at state level, candidates should expect to meet Tennessee Tech and state requirements for student teaching and licensure, which may include passing state-approved content and pedagogy examinations and completing specified field hours. Prospective students with prior college credit or an associate degree should consult admissions advisors about transfer credit and progression into the major.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for licenced positions teaching students with disabilities in public and private schools at the early childhood, elementary and secondary levels. Common roles include special education teacher (mild/moderate or severe disabilities), inclusion/resource room teacher, behaviour interventionist, transition coordinator, and teacher of early intervention programmes.

With additional certification or graduate study, alumni may progress to roles such as educational diagnostician, special education coordinator, curriculum specialist, school administrator, or university instructor. Many graduates also work with community agencies, early intervention services, residential programmes and non-profit organisations that support individuals with disabilities and their families.

Why study at Tennessee Technological University

Tennessee Technological University offers a teacher preparation environment with close ties to regional school districts, providing plentiful practicum and student-teaching placements across urban and rural settings. The College of Education emphasises applied learning, so coursework is closely linked to classroom practice and collaboration with PK–12 partners.

Students benefit from faculty who have classroom experience and research interests in special education, access to campus resources that support inclusive instruction and assistive technology, and opportunities to join student organisations and service projects focused on disability advocacy. The programme is structured to guide candidates toward meeting licensure requirements and to prepare graduates to enter a workforce with strong local and regional demand for qualified special educators.