Director of Special Education Licensure
Our administrative licensure programs are here to help you meet the demands of educational leadership during and after the pandemic.
You see possibilities where others see limitations
GRADUATE STUDIES: SPECIAL EDUCATION
Special Education Programs Advancing the Common Good
The University of St. Thomas offers 5 high-quality, state-accredited special education teacher preparation programs where you can work towards an initial or additional special education teaching license and complete a Master of Arts degree.
Our award-winning programs include highly flexible (hyflex) formats with in-person and online (synchronous and asynchronous) options taught by engaging faculty dedicated to your success.
- Academic Behavior Strategist (mild to moderate cross-categorical disabilities)
- Autism Spectrum Disorder
- Developmental Cognitive Disabilities
- Early Childhood Special Education
- Emotional or Behavioral Disorders
Through traditional and district-serving “grow your own” teacher formats, we prepare inclusive minded educators who focus on student’s strengths and are prepared to teach in-person and through distance education.
We look forward to working with you on your journey to becoming a special educator, where you make a difference in the lives of students.
Contact
Barbara Jo Stahl
Executive Fellow, Special Education
Email
bjstahl@stthomas.edu
Phone Number
651-962-4398
Add an Additional License in the Summer
Summer Institutes
The University of St. Thomas is proud to offer Special Education Summer Institutes in 3 disability areas: Autism Spectrum (June 11-Aug. 22, 2025), Developmental Cognitive Disabilities (June 12-Aug. 7, 2025), and Emotional Behavioral Disorders (June 4-Aug. 20, 2025). These courses count toward a Special Education License or Certificate. View the Summer Institutes Schedule.
Summer Institutes are conveniently scheduled online and in person (depending on the license) during the summer months to meet the needs of busy educators looking to add an additional license.
Education for Busy Educators
Initial License/MA in Teaching Special Education
The University of St. Thomas makes it easy for new teachers to jumpstart their careers by earning a Master's degree with an initial teaching license. This option prepares students earning their initial teaching license in special education to make in impact on classrooms from day one.
Increase your Capability
Additional Licensure
Already a licensed teacher? The University of St. Thomas makes it easy to earn an additional license. And even better, you can earn your MA in Special Education with just a few more courses. Regional Low Incidence tuition support is available.
Prepare to Lead
Master of Arts Degree: Special Education
Set yourself up for success in the world of Special Education with this invaluable advanced degree. This program is a perfect fit for experienced teachers looking to earn an initial or additional special education license, as well as an MA.
Financial Help
Minnesota State Funding
Your employer may have funding to support your education.
Special Education Teacher Pipeline Program: If you are working as an educational assistant, paraprofessional, or Tier 1/2/3/4 teacher in the state of Minnesota, you may be eligible to receive funding from your school district to cover some or all of the cost of your licensure program. Please check with your employer to see if you can access their Special Education Teacher Pipeline Funding.
Grow Your Own Program: This program is similar to the Special Education Teacher Pipeline Program, but it is not limited to special education and often includes a focus on diversifying the teacher workforce.
Related Programs
Director of Special Education Licensure
Work and Learn
Through strategic school partnerships, the School of Education has developed and deepened our commitment to collaborating with districts and schools to invest in growing their human capital. Work and learn at the same time toward your degree!
Residencies
The residency model is a teacher preparation program that gives students a rigorous full-year classroom apprenticeship paired with master's-level education content. These partnerships are in place with St. Paul and Minneapolis schools along with several charter schools.