Alliance University’s Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degree in Childhood Special Education, a five year program, prepares students for New York State certification to teach children in grades one to six in general education, special education, or inclusive contexts. Our program has reciprocity with virtually all other states, allowing our graduates to teach outside of New York State with relative ease. Candidates are also certified by ACSI (Association of Christian Schools International).

At a Glance

167–170

Credits

5 Years

Standard Completion Time

3

Concentrations

Why Study Childhood Special Education at Alliance University?

AU’s biblically based program is highly regarded by Christian, public, charter, and private schools for the quality of its graduates with regards to their intellect, pedagogy, and disposition. In addition, our program:

  • Leads to ACSI (Association of Christian School International) certification
  • Leads to New York State certification
  • Offers a Christian-centric study of childhood and special education (grades 1–6)
  • Strongly emphasizes diverse and inclusive clinical experiences
  • Offers overseas student teaching opportunities
  • Offers Global Service-Learning opportunities
  • Is taught by highly qualified and experienced Christian faculty

What Will I Study?
  • What it means to be a Christian teacher in grades one to grade six in childhood and special education contexts
  • Inclusive and diverse clinical experiences
  • Cognitive, moral, and social child development from a Christian perspective
  • The historical, social, and philosophical foundations of education
  • Research-based pedagogical instructional strategies and assessments across disciplines
  • Accommodations for diverse populations

Career Opportunities
  • General education teacher
  • Special education teacher in inclusive settings
  • SEIT (Special Education Itinerant Teacher)
  • SETTS (Special Education Teacher Support Services)
  • ICT (Integrated Co-Teaching)
  • Homebound Instruction
  • Early intervention programs
  • After-school program teacher/coordinator
  • Curriculum and program development
  • International and domestic ministries
  • Mentoring or coaching
  • Research
  • Sales representatives for educational materials
  • Teaching/training in childhood/Special Education contexts (grades 1–6)
  • Working with youth in agency-based contexts
  • Writing

Our Graduates

Graduates of our program have gone on to do the following:

  • Special Education Teacher – Charter School
  • General Education Teacher – Charter School
  • Special Education Teacher – Public School
  • General Education Teacher – Public School
  • ICT (Integrated Co-Teaching) – Public School
  • Early Intervention Specialist – Agency

Concentrations (3)
  • Communication and the Arts
  • English
  • English with TESOL emphasis

Accreditations (3)
  • CAEP
  • CEC
  • ACEI
Quote

Testimonials

“God has profoundly blessed me in this season of my life, and I am proud to say I will be using my education from Alliance University to serve the needs of special education students. I know that my experiences at AU will help me shine God’s light on those around me and all who enter my classroom.”

Darla H.
School of Education Graduate

Meet Key Faculty

Dr. Christine Willard

Director of M.S. Childhood Education, Childhood Special Education, and Inclusive Education Professor of Education


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