Online program to become a special education teacher

Become a memorable, skilled, and compassionate special education teacher with a bachelor's degree from Concordia University's established and highly-regarded School of Education. Your studies in special education will include a solid liberal arts foundation, specialized coursework, and in-classroom experiences. This cross categorical SPED license for K-12 will provide the opportunity to serve special education students with various needs in a Wisconsin school district.

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Program Overview

This accelerated special education teacher licensure program is 100% online. You will earn your bachelor's in education AND a valid Wisconsin license to teach K-12 students. This accelerated program can be completed within three years or at a pace you prefer. It is an accessible, flexible, and affordable teacher program that gives individuals the opportunity to serve students in grades K-12 as a trusted and skilled special education teacher.

Relevant curriculum, student teaching, and experienced faculty will develop your teaching skills and passion to help K-12 special education students reach their full academic potential. Learn to identify the characteristics of children with disabilities, assess students, serve on Individualized Educationl Plan (IEP) teams, and create learning environments that align with their specific needs. This program will give you the authority to work with students that have intellectual disabilities (ID), specific learning disabilities (SPD), and emotional behavioral disabilites (EBD).

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What to Expect
  • Online: all courses are online.
  • Field work: Practicums (in-classroom experience) and student teaching (leading a classroom as a student teacher) must be done in-person at a school, anywhere within the U.S.
  • 8-week sessions: students take three successive 8-week sessions within each semester. Complete the program in three years by taking two classes each session.
  • Start soon: begin this program at the start of any 8-week session
  • Licensure: program leads to Wisconsin Teaching Licensure in K-9th grade (applicants from out-of-state should check with their departments of education to see how courses translate to other states).
  • Credit opportunities: transfer up to 84 credits.
  • Prior Learning Assessment (PLA): this program accepts up to 6 life and work experience credits.
  • Background check: required at the beginning of clinical experiences and prior to student teaching
  • Financial opportunity: check to see if you qualify for an Uncommon Scholarship.
Concentrations / Specializations

Lutheran Teacher Diploma

This powerful credential prepares future teachers for ministry in Lutheran schools across the country—and even the world—through a blend of academic excellence and theological formation. Learn more about Concordia's Lutheran Teacher Diploma (LTD).

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