Special Education/Cross Categorical Undergraduate Program

Becoming a certified special educator

The philosophy which drives our program is based on meeting the unique needs of children and youth with disabilities without emphasizing a label. Our special education/cross categorical undergraduate degree entails an initial professional certificate to teach in Missouri in a variety of educational settings with children and youth with disabilities. The focus of our cross categorical pre-service program is to prepare teachers to work with students who have mild to moderate learning disabilities, intellectual/developmental disabilities, emotional disorders and physical and other health impairments.

Why study special education at Missouri State University?

• Our program is approved by the Missouri State Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, as well as the Council for Exceptional Children.
• Holders of our special education certificate may be employed to teach in grades K-12 in cross categorical, as well as other special and general education settings.
• Our departmental faculty all hold advanced degrees with emphasis in special education and are committed to your success by being actively involved in teaching, research and service activities at the local, state and national level.