Teacher helping special needs child.

Teaching: Special Education

Through our undergraduate and graduate programs, the Special Education Department equips you to become a dedicated, compassionate teacher, ready to meet the unique needs of learners with disabilities. Embark on a rewarding journey, gaining the skills to transform lives. Commit to a future in special education and make a lasting impact.

Careers in Special Education

With a degree in special education, you’ll prepare to teach students with diverse learning needs, create inclusive settings, and work collaboratively with other professionals.
  • Special Education Teacher
  • Behavior Intervention Teacher
  • Paraprofessional
  • Autism Spectrum Disorder Teacher
  • Emotional and Behavioral Disorders Teachers
  • Learning Disability Teacher

Potential Salary

Median Salary $65,270

The median annual wage for Adult Basic and Secondary Education and ESL Teachers in May 2023 according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Special Education Degrees at MSU

Special Education Academic and Behavioral Strategist, Bachelor of Science

Prepare to confidently teach students with diverse learning needs including mild/moderate learning disabilities, emotional/behavioral disorders, autism spectrum disorders, and developmental disabilities. Prepare for today's classrooms where special education teachers play a crucial role in supporting students with a range of learning needs.

Special Education, Master of Science (Online)

Our online M.S. program in Special Education is designed for individuals looking for advanced knowledge and skills in this vital field. Students will gain expertise in pedagogy and evidence-based practices while developing skills in designing and conducting applied research.

Special Education Academic and Behavioral Strategist, Graduate Certificate

This program will prepare teacher candidates to work as special education teachers for students with mild moderate disabilities and will prepare them for licensure as an Academic and Behavioral Strategist.

Special Education Autism Spectrum Disorders, Graduate Certificate

The program is for individuals seeking an initial teaching license, add-on teaching license, or additional knowledge in autism spectrum disorders.

Special Education Developmental Disabilities, Graduate Certificate (Online)

The online program is for individuals seeking an initial teaching license, add-on teaching license, or additional knowledge in developmental cognitive disabilities.

Special Education Early Childhood Special Education, Graduate Certificate (Online)

This online program is for individuals seeking an initial teaching license, add-on teaching license, or additional knowledge in early childhood special education.

Special Education Emotional Behavioral Disorders, Graduate Certificate (Online)

This online program is for individuals seeking an initial teaching license, add-on teaching license, or additional knowledge in emotional/behavioral disorders.

Special Education Learning Disabilities, Graduate Certificate (Online)

This online graduate certificate program is for individuals seeking an initial teaching license, add-on teaching license, or additional knowledge in learning disabilities.

Standards of Effective Practice for Teachers, Graduate Certificate (Online)

This online graduate certificate is for individuals seeking an initial license in special education.

Theory and Practice in Special Education, Graduate Certificate (Online)

This online graduate certificate is for individuals seeking an initial license in special education or adding a special education license to an existing general education license.

Dean of the College of Education posing with students holding an EdFest sign.

Ed-Fest Get Connected. Get Involved

Join us for EdFest! Our annual fall engagement fair is the perfect opportunity to connect with classmates, make new friends, and meet your current and future faculty. Enjoy prizes, music, free food, and informative booths!

Group of men and women around a table in a discussion.

Field Experience

Field experience is a cornerstone of our program, giving you the practical skills needed to excel in real-world teaching environments close to home and around the globe.

Learn More

Project PASS-IT

Project PASS-IT is a 5-year, $1.2 million grant funded by the U.S. Department of Education Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP). Project PASS-IT will provide interdisciplinary training to future special education teachers and school psychologists.

SPED Pipeline Grant Partnership

The Minnesota State University, Mankato Special Education program is prepared to fully partner with Minnesota School Districts in preparing future Special Education teachers who will serve your students, families and communities at a high level.   

Teachers of Tomorrow

Teachers of Tomorrow (ToT) empowers future educators to participate in discussions, scholarship and social justice initiatives aimed at transforming the teaching profession through antiracist practices.

Education Minnesota–Aspiring Educators

Education Minnesota Aspiring Educators is a pre-professional organization for college and university students like you who plan to be teachers.

Related Programs

teacher standing in her classroom talking to an elementary aged student

Elementary Education, Master of Science

Specifically designed for practicing teachers who want to improve their classroom craft, this fully online, asynchronous program prepares licensed K-12 teachers to be leaders in the elementary education profession.

Elementary gym teacher talking with kids outside.

Physical Education and Developmental Adapted Physical Education (DAPE)

The Physical Education and Developmental Adapted Physical Education (DAPE) major offers a robust curriculum that prepares future teachers to impact the physical health and well-being of PK-12 students significantly. This program prepares graduates to teach PK-12 students, with and without disabilities, about the importance of physical activity. 

Teacher smiling at front of the classroom.

Teaching and Learning, Master of Science

Enhance your teaching, technology and leadership skills to meet diverse student needs. The program is available to all teachers who wish to broaden their knowledge base, enhance their classroom performance and better serve the needs of all learners.

Department of Special Education

College of

Education

Empowering learners, fostering collaboration, promoting reflective practice, and respecting diversity are values that the College of Education carries in serving our students.

Learn More About the College of Education