Special Education

Overview

Some services provided by people in the field of special education include K-12 education, rehabilitation for occupational development and daily independence, community-based case management, disability advocacy, school and individualized consultation services and various other services related to individuals with disabilities and their families. Through education, community awareness and ecologically-based service delivery, the focus of special education is to enhance and better the lives of all individuals with disabilities. The Special Education master’s program, offered by the University of Cincinnati, focuses on providing teacher-leaders in the area of special education.

Success

Candidates who succeed in special education demonstrate:

• a history of academic success

• the ability to collaborate with others, including those from diverse populations

• leadership characteristics

• responsible, caring, fair, honest and ethical behavior

• a commitment to social justice and a diverse society

• a history of good critical thinking and problem solving

• enthusiasm for working with children and adults with disabilities

• a commitment to equity and the betterment of individuals with disabilities

Career

In general, graduates of the special education masters degree program work as intervention specialists (teachers) in various K-12 education settings, including schools, hospitals, vocational training facilities and other institutions providing educational services for individuals with disabilities. Some graduates of the special education program work as advocates and/or case managers for social agencies.