Childhood Education and Childhood Special Education, Grades 1-6, Initial Certification

Overview

At the Childhood Education and Childhood Special Education, Grades 1-6, Initial Certification MA program from New York University, you'll take courses that link the theory and practice of childhood education and childhood special education as you gain:

• Strategies to adapt curricula, learning environments, and assessments to address the different intellectual, emotional, and behavioral needs of students
• A solid foundation in pedagogy and core liberal arts subjects such as mathematics, English/language arts, and social studies

• Approaches for working with children with emotional/behavioral disabilities, including educating children with severe/multiple disabilities

Our graduates understand that special education is neither a place nor a group of students. Rather, special education refers to specialized services, environment modifications, differentiated instruction, adapted curricula, or other supports provided to students with disabilities. We encourage our students to view all children and their families as individuals with varying degrees of skills, and untapped potential for quality lives in schools, work, recreation, and in their communities. 

Career Opportunities

Upon graduation, you'll be eligible for initial certification in New York State for both childhood education and special education, grades 1–6. You’ll be prepared for an in-demand career as a: 

• Teacher in general, inclusive, and special education classrooms in public and private elementary schools
• Special education teacher in hospitals, day-treatment centers and other clinical settings, and in group homes and agencies such as the Young Adult Institute
• Charter school developer or administrator for specialized education programs