Childhood Special Education

Cupola atop a building on the Molloy University campus

Are you interested in working with diverse ability students in a variety of school settings?  If so, the Students with Disabilities/Special Education Dual Degree program is for you. At Molloy University, you can earn a Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees at the same time through our Dual Degree program. At the conclusion of this program, you will be eligible to apply for New York State teaching certification in Students with Disabilities and either Adolescence Teacher (Grades 7-12) in a specific content area or Childhood Teacher (Grades 1-6).

The Students with Disabilities programs at Molloy University prepares you to engage in a dynamic career of teaching and learning with diverse populations. Our commitment to authentic teaching and learning practices in course work and field experiences thoroughly trains students with essential skills for the rigorous demands and responsibilities of teachers. In return, students who become teachers will experience a rewarding career positively impacting the lives of their students.

Required Coursework*

The number of credits required for each degree differs slightly.  Refer to the course catalog for specific information on each program.

  • General Education Credits (38-48 credits)
  • Content Area Requirements (30-55 credits)
  • Education Requirements (30-55 credits-some of these credits are Graduate level credits)
  • Elective credits (1-8 credits)
  • Total Credits (130-145 credits)

*Please note:  Courses are offered in a variety of modalities to accommodate all Molloy University students: hybrid, asynchronous, and in-person classes.

Advisement

During your time at Molloy, you will have two faculty advisors.  One from education and one from your content area.  Together they will guide you through your coursework to successfully complete your degree and help you plan your next steps after graduation.

Field Experience

As part of your Education requirements, you will participate in three field experiences.  The first field experience will give you the opportunity to observe in a local school in the grade level and setting appropriate for your degree.  The second field experience, pre-student teaching, will take place the semester before you graduate.  You will observe and teach in a local school.  In your third and final placement, you will student teach where you will be in the classroom with your cooperating teacher full-time.  You will have many opportunities to teach and be observed by your Molloy Field Supervisor and your cooperating teacher both will provide feedback to help you improve your craft. 

Degrees Offered/New York State Certification

The following degrees will lead to New York State Initial Certification as a Teacher of Childhood (Grades 1-6) and Special Education (Students with Disabilities-SWD).

  • BS./M.S. Childhood Education—Biology/Special Education
  • BS./M.S. Childhood Education—Communications/Special Education
  • BS./M.S. Childhood Education—English/Special Education
  • BS./M.S. Childhood Education—History/Special Education
  • BS./M.S. Childhood Education—Mathematics/Special Education
  • BS./M.S. Childhood Education—Psychology/Special Education
  • BS./M.S. Childhood Education—Spanish/Special Education