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For those passionate about fostering growth, learning, and making a meaningful impact in their community, the University of Utah's Special Education Teacher Preparation undergraduate program offers an excellent pathway. This comprehensive major combines interdisciplinary academic preparation with practical professional training for educating both young children and students with disabilities. The curriculum features a Teacher Education Core covering diverse subjects including early childhood development, secondary education strategies, assessment techniques, language acquisition, legal frameworks, literacy instruction, mathematics teaching methods, and educational technology. During their final year, students will undertake specialized coursework and student teaching placements aligned with one of five Special Education focus areas. Graduates who successfully complete the program, pass the Praxis II Special Education Content Knowledge Exam and Pedagogical Performance for Teachers (PPAT) assessment, will qualify for recommendation to the Utah State Board of Education for professional licensure.
Professional Pathways
After graduation, you'll utilize your acquired knowledge and teaching experience to pursue rewarding careers in special education across preschool, elementary, middle, or high school settings. You can choose to teach within Utah's school systems or take your transferable teaching credentials to other states. Those who continue their education through graduate programs may explore advanced roles such as educational administrators, school principals, university faculty, guidance counselors, or academic advisors.