Special education is a screened major; applicants must achieve qualifying scores on Praxis?CORE or SAT/ACT as established by MSDE, and a minimum GPA of 2.75 (with a grade equivalent of 2.00 or higher on all prerequisite course work required for the major). A writing sample is also required.

The education course listings include core education courses that provide knowledge and skills for general application in teaching and learning. The instructional technology and special education offerings also have Pre-K-12 applications. Reflecting the Professional Education Mission and Vision statements,?students are assigned?by their department and/or the Center for Professional Practice to field and clinical experience placements that are diverse and inclusive. Placements are made that enable the Teacher Education Unit to meet state and national accreditation mandates. All shy;professional year placements will be in identified Professional Development Schools (PDS), or approved satellite schools, based on ongoing and systematic PDS partnership agreements with school systems. These mandates and the size and scope of our education program do not permit personal preference or geographic convenience in placements.

Special Education majors must meet with their advisers every term to ensure that their planned programs of study meet university, major and Maryland State Department of Education certification requirements. Students must consult with their advisers prior to taking courses on a Pass grading option. Courses in the major and courses required for Maryland State Department of Education certification may not be taken with this option. All tracks of the Special Education program begin in the fall term with the exception of the ECSE program.