Early Childhood Special Education

Overview

There is a high demand nationwide for preschool educators—especially for those who focus on early childhood special education. We aim to meet that need through our Early Childhood Special Education program.

This licensure program is designed for individuals seeking certification in Early Childhood Special Education in the State of Wisconsin. As a student in this program, you will gain the foundational knowledge and skills needed to plan and teach a curriculum that will foster student-centered growth and development in young children. the program provides you with instruction on how to have a play-based and hands-on learning environment and stresses the importance of inclusive, brain-based and differentiated learning. You will have opportunities for hands-on experiences early in the program and will work with all age bands in the early childhood sector.

The program is offered to students seeking their first bachelor’s degree or for students who already have a bachelor’s degree but want to obtain the Early Childhood Special Education license.

The Early Childhood Special Education program is offered fully online to meet the diverse needs of our student body.

Program Outcomes

Through the Early Childhood Special Education program, you will:

• Understand teaching strategies and appropriate assessments for children with disabilities
• Learn to work with a variety of educational professionals, community members and family members to support young children with disabilities
• Learn about positive behavior supports and classroom management
• Develop ways to promote learning through play
• Understand the special education evaluative process and inclusive practices

Licensure candidates must pass Assessments of Content Knowledge, Wisconsin Foundations of Reading Test or approved assessment, and successfully complete the Assessments of Pedagogical Knowledge.

Career Outcomes

This licensure program can lead to certification to teach in multiple areas of education. This program allows graduates to teach as an early childhood special education teacher, in birth through grade 3 settings. Graduates also have the opportunity to apply for additional licenses in:

• K-9 Elementary Education
• Birth through grade 3 Early Childhood
• K-12 Special Education 

Licensure

The University of Wisconsin-Superior no longer requires the Praxis assessment for degree licensure. As you are preparing to become a licensed educator in Wisconsin, you will partner with your advisor to select the content area assessment that you prefer. Choose from two options:

• Content area GPA – based on specific courses embedded in the curriculum and designated course assessments
• Passing score on an appropriate content area DPI-approved exam

This program meets Wisconsin state educator licensure requirements and satisfies many other states’ and countries’ requirements, as well. View a complete list and more information here.