This specialty is designed to prepare students in cross-categorical and early childhood special education. It provides teaching professionals with the opportunity to identify and assess children with exceptional needs and design intervention strategies by adapting and/or accommodating instruction. Developed to meet all Wisconsin state and Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) standards, the program provides rigorous, comprehensive courses including opportunities for field experiences. Graduate students entering the program with an initial teaching license may choose to earn only their Wisconsin Special Education licensure, their Master of Science in Education with a focus in Special Education by including a research component or earn both their Masters of Science in Education and their Wisconsin Special Education License. Students seeking licensure in a state other than Wisconsin should check with their state regarding licensure requirements.

Program Features and Benefits

• Program designed and developed to meet all Wisconsin state standards and the standards of the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC).
• Program endorses interdisciplinary instruction and strategies across academic schools at Concordia.
• Because Special Education is designated as an area of teacher shortage, upon graduation, teachers often qualify for loan reduction or loan cancellation.
• Classes are designed for the working professional, offered in a flexible online format.
• Program utilizes a portfolio-based assessment process.
• Classes are small and students receive personal attention from faculty.