Special Education Initial Teacher License Program

This is an initial teaching licensure and Master's Degree program for candidates who are college graduates and want to teach special education. It is a full-time program, and culminates in an initial teaching license and a Master's Degree in Education.

Authorization Levels - All applicants choose an authorization level (grade level). In the SOU program, the following options are available:

  1. Early Childhood/Elementary- Age 3 to Grade 8 (does not include Middle School)
  2. Middle School/High School - Grade 5 through Age 21

Applicants may add the contiguous authorization level by taking 9 additional credit hours including a 3-hour practicum. Adding the authorization level occurs after completion of the Stand-Alone program.

Added Endorsement Program

The SPED Added Endorsement is for candidates who are already licensed teachers. Throughout the regular academic year the courses take place mostly in the evenings except for the summer and spring terms, and are spread over a twelve-month period. Candidates may also complete requirements for a Masters Degree in Education as part of this program.

Authorization Levels - All applicants choose an authorization level (grade level). In the SOU program, the following options are available:

  1. Early Childhood/Elementary- Age 3 to Grade 8 (does not include Middle School)
  2. Middle School/High School - Grade 5 through Age 21

Applicants may add the contiguous authorization level by taking 9 additional credit hours including a 3-hour practicum. Adding the authorization level occurs after completion of the Endorsement program.