University of Northern Colorado

What you'll study

The programme combines foundational studies in child and adolescent development with specialist coursework that focuses on assessment, curriculum adaptation, behaviour support and inclusive practice. Core topics typically include functional assessment and intervention, instructional strategies for learners with mild to moderate disabilities, curriculum design and differentiation, collaborative family and professional practices, legal and ethical issues in special education, and transition planning for secondary-age students.

Study is organised around classroom-based instruction, benchwork in assessment and intervention techniques, and multiple supervised field placements that increase in length and responsibility. The final phase normally includes a full-time student-teaching placement in a special education classroom or inclusive setting, alongside seminars that integrate theory with practice.

• Typical modules and subjects: Assessment and Evaluation in Special Education; Behaviour Intervention and Positive Supports; Differentiated Instruction and Curriculum Adaptation; Assistive Technology and Accessibility; Inclusive Classroom Practices; Law, Policy and Ethics in Special Education; Transition Planning and Life Skills; Communication and Collaboration with Families.
• Practical experience: Progressive practicum placements in local schools, supervised clinical experiences, and a culminating student-teaching internship.
• Certification preparation: Coursework and placements are aligned with state licensure requirements to prepare candidates for special education teacher certification examinations and endorsement processes.

Entry requirements

Applicants need a high-school diploma or equivalent and should demonstrate readiness for university-level study. Typical entry expectations include a competitive GPA in secondary studies and satisfactory scores on any general admissions tests required by the university. Candidates are usually expected to present a personal statement outlining their interest in special education and at least one academic or professional reference.

Because the programme leads to teacher licensure, students must be prepared to complete background checks, health screenings and immunisation requirements before beginning field placements. Admission to the professional teacher education sequence within the university commonly requires meeting additional progress benchmarks, which may include passing basic skills or content assessments and completing prerequisite coursework in education and child development.

Career prospects

Graduates are qualified to work as special education teachers in public and private schools, typically supporting students from early childhood through secondary levels. Career paths include:

• Special education teacher in inclusive or self-contained classrooms
• Resource or support teacher providing targeted interventions
• Transition coordinator or life-skills instructor supporting post-school outcomes
• Paraprofessional or behaviour intervention specialist (with additional credentials or experience)
• Further professional roles such as educational diagnostician, special education consultant, or applied behaviour analyst (often requiring graduate study or specialised certification)

The programme’s blend of practicum experience and licensure preparation helps graduates move directly into classroom roles and positions within district special services, early intervention programmes, and community agencies serving individuals with disabilities.

Why study at University of Northern Colorado

The University of Northern Colorado has a long-standing reputation for teacher preparation and provides strong links to K–12 districts across the region, offering a wide range of supervised placements and partnership schools. Students benefit from faculty who are active practitioners and researchers in special education, small cohort sizes that support personalised mentoring, and on-campus resources that may include clinics, labs and collaboration centres focused on assessment and intervention.

Alongside preparation for state licensure, the programme emphasises hands-on learning, reflective practice and collaboration with families and multidisciplinary teams—skills that employers in schools and community services value. The university’s regional partnerships and practicum network help graduates gain practical experience and make professional connections prior to graduation.